Colorado Vixens

Release Day for Monica Kaye

2009-10-13T20:24:00.002-06:00

Hey! That rhymes!

Yes, folks, my novella, 'Dirty Business' is out and available to the world. Head on over to Harmless Smut to read about the release and to read an excerpt. Plus, there's a contest (singsong voice)!

Later!

Whew!

2009-09-11T20:24:00.006-06:00

Wow, it's been TWO months. You all must be wondering what the Vixens are up to! Well, I am here to tell you.

First, our very own lovely Tricia has finaled in the Heart of the Rockies contest (or the HOR which I think is an unfortunate name) in the spicy category!. We cannot be more proud of her. Unfortunately she and fellow Vixen Helen will be rubbing elbows with mad hotties at RomantiCon in Cleveland so yours truly will be accepting her award. She trusts me. Mistake.

Secondly, our very own Viola had her first release from Cerridwen Press, Angel Vindicated. I highly recommend this book not just because Viola is a Vixen but she also happens to be a wonderful writer. Don't forget that Bewitching You, Viola's paranormal romance, drops next month (10/30) from The Wild Rose Press. We'll let you know more about it closer to the release date.

Also, a friend of the Vixens, Lia Slater, has a new release out just this week, Fatal Exposure. If you like your danger and intrigue with some killer sex as well, this is the book for you. Lia also has a new contract with Ellora's Cave. She is super stoked and seeing as how I've read it, it is also a great read so we'll let you know when you can buy it. We love supporting our fellow writers!

As for Helen, she is a busy girl. Her newest release, Montego Lay, came out today from the Wilder Rose Press. At only $2 this is the definition of a steal. She has also recently signed her 2nd contract with EC, Loving Eve. Head on over to her blog to hear all the details.

As for me, I am please to tell you all that my very first book, Dirty Business, will be available from LooseId on 10/13. Check out my cover!

I am so in love with this that it is ridiculous. You can read all about my journey to publication over at Harmless Smut. Rest assured that I will be promoting the hell out of this over the next few weeks (come on, months) so stop by and bask in my shameless self-promotion.

So, that's it. That's us. We've all had busy summers and we're still recovering but we do appreciate all of you who stop by to visit us.

Later Gators

HA! You didn't think I'd let a Friday go by without a Guy did you. I don't think so. May I present to you...

RYAN REYNOLDS (and boy did I have a hard time finding pics of him shirtless!)

Incidentally, he's the inspiration for my newest story! I'm drooling!

On Hiatus

2009-07-10T18:03:00.003-06:00

Hello Blog Followers,

As you might have guessed, the Vixens are taking a hiatus from the blog for the summer. Helen is off on some exotic island, Viola is off on vacation, I just returned from Costa Rica, and Tricia just returned from Disneyland. Needless to say, we are busy women and have decided to chill with the blogging for the summer until kids are back in school and things get back into a routine.

That being said, we couldn't leave you without something to whet your appetite over the summer. So behold the final TGIF of the summer. I had to go with a newcomer to the Hollywood scene and the reason that I went to see the new Star Trek movie.

CHRIS PINE

YOU'RE WELCOME!

Have a great summer and we'll see you again in August!

NEW COVER ART and Come Visit Me at Paty's

2009-06-24T17:29:00.005-06:00

Current read: My Sister's Keeper by Jodi Picoult

I'm thrilled with my new cover art for Blood Wolf. This is the story that won the Got Wolf? contest over at The Wild Rose Press. It will be featured in an anthology with the other long winner, My Lord Werewolf by Ria Ellis. The cover, designed by the wonderful Angela Anderson, is dark and gothic and suits the story perfectly. According to my lovely editor, Callie Lynn Wolfe, it's perfect for Ria's story, as well, which I'm looking forward to reading. Look for the book in October!

If you have a moment, drop by Paty Jager's blog where I'm chatting about The Outlaw's Angel, along with the other three authors in the Lawmen and Outlaws anthology. See you there!

Writer's Block?

2009-06-22T04:00:00.001-06:00

This week I entered a writing challenge to write 15,000 words. I have no idea if I’ll be able to complete this gargantuan task, but I’m going to give it my best shot.

To set the week off, I’m going to share one of my favorite articles that I have printed and posted by my computer. Every so often, I take a peek at this list and it helps me remember to give myself a break and just write! Hope it helps you as well.

Eight Ways to Conjure Your Writing Genie

1. Shake off "Impostor Syndrome"

Everyone communicates, and a lot of people write, but few people dare to call themselves "writers". If you feel like an impostor, take a deep breath and remind yourself of your unique purpose and how important it is. Or take on a fictional persona and write through that mask.

2. Conjure Your True Voice

If you're at a loss for words, try meeting a friend for tea and talking your way through the material, or even talking out loud to yourself. Your spoken words might not be publishable, but once you've got 'em down on paper, you can edit to your heart's content.

3. Write it as a Letter

Submitting written work can be scary--especially if it's going to be read by The Powers That Be. But you don't have to think about those Powers when you're writing; in fact, it's probably better not to pay them any mind until the last few editing stages, after you've already squeezed out every last idea and captured it on paper. So when you're still writing, why not imagine you're writing a letter telling your closest confidante about your project? Try starting your work "Dear ____", and you might tap into a fountain of lovely, loose conversational prose.

4. Detach Your Ego

If stage fright derives from fear--the fear that if the work fails, we fail--we need to disconnect ourselves from the work. When I play pool, I don't care if I win or lose, because I'm not A Pool Person--but beat me on the air hockey table and I'll be grumpy, because I'm invested in the game. Realize that people reading your work are just as self-centered and will most likely not draw any permanent conclusions about you from your work.

5. Plunge Into the Scary Parts

What are you afraid of? Spelling poorly? Weak transitions? Well, go ahead and deliberately spell every word incorrectly, write without transitions, don't use any punctuation--do everything you're not supposed to do, and have fun doing it! Draw caricatures of your writing demons, put the dreaded failure behind you, and move on.

6. Lower Your Standards

There's really no reason to worry about editors, teachers, critics, bosses, and what they think until the last stage of revising. Until that time, indulge yourself. Don't correct anything; write in slang; write 3 pages in 15 minutes; leave notes to yourself, like ADD DETAILS HERE or FIX THIS LATER, throughout your work--anything that makes it easier to write.

7. Sidestep What Blocks You

Don't let one part of your writing stump you for long. If it's bugging you, just skip it and move on to an easier, more appealing task. If the introduction isn't coming, jump right to paragraph two, or page 23. If you can't think of anything to say in one section, just skip merrily along to the next part and let your unconscious work on the hard stuff for a while.

8. Stop When You're On a Roll

When writing is a struggle, you'll naturally want to stop. But if you do, you're rewarding yourself for not writing. Try sticking with it--and then quit when you're on a roll, so that next time you'll be eager to return to the work. Or start writing when you know you have to do something else in 45 minutes--as soon as the pressure's off, as soon as you say "well, i know i won't get anything done in this little bit of time" you're free to let your creative juices flow. Waves of inspiration will come and go; the trick is scheduling your work to take full advantage of the tides.

I found this list on the web at: http://www.transaction.net/web/tutor/text/dissolve.html

Have a productive week!

Viola
http://www.violaestrella.com/
Angel Vindicated – Available now from http://www.cerridwenpress.com/

TGIF-Unconventional Hottie

2009-06-19T09:00:00.005-06:00

So, I believe myself to be a multi-faceted girl and I don't always go for the pretty faces, tight abs, and voices that can bring you to orgasm just by saying your name. (Can you hear me Gerry Butler?) There are also men that I think are hot because they have that something about them. For my mom, in the 80s, it was Edward James Olmos. Don't ask me why. She just said he was sexy. I. Didn't. Get. It. But mine is not to judge.

So I decided to look at a man that I think is hot, but others' opinions may vary. Plus, it's my birthday so I can do anything I want.

NATHAN FILLION!!

Nathan who? You might ask. Well, you may remember him from the TV shows 'Firefly' or the creepy reverend dude on 'Buffy' or the loveable husband on 'Two Guys, a Girl, and a Pizza Place.' He was also kick-ass in the movie 'Serenity' (GO WATCH IT!!!!)

Anyhoo, here he is.

Oh, and since it is my birthday and since I am such a giver, the first Non-Vixen person to comment on the blog AND wish me a happy birthday (because I'm not vain at all) will win a ARC of the new Jeanne Frost book due out July 28th. Sorry, I don't have the name right now but I think it's 'One Foot in the Grave' or something like that.

Hasta Luego! (That's an hommage to my trip to Costa Rica which I'm leaving on tomorrow.)

Flash Fiction Challenge

2009-06-15T10:36:00.002-06:00

Current read: Miner in Petticoats by Paty Jager

Have you ever tried flash fiction? Basically, a flash piece is a complete story (with beginning, middle, and end) in 1000 words or less. It's a wonderful exercise in brevity and precision. Last year, I wrote the following piece for a 500 word Halloween Mini Tale contest. My tale took second place, and is exactly 500 words. Did it start out at 500? Nope. I had to cut it down and make every word count. I learned a lot from doing the piece. Making every word count is essential in longer works as well, so writing a flash piece can be great training for paring down longer works to the bare essentials.

So here's my 500 word flash piece. Do you have one you'd like to share?

Onyx fur vanished as Logan emerged from wolf form. My breath caught at his silky black hair, his muscled chest.

“Mary, my love.” His baritone voice cracked as his vocal cords adjusted. “It’s been so damn long.”

“We can’t waste time talking,” I said. “Each Samhain you change a little sooner. Take me to bed.”

He trailed his finger down my cheek, tracing my jaw line. Sparks erupted on my skin. “Let me look at you through my own eyes.”

“But you see me all year.” I needed him. His lips on mine. His body inside me. We had so little time.

“It’s not the same, Mary. Please.”

He pushed my lace robe from my shoulders, his calloused fingers lingering on my naked flesh. I cupped my breasts and held them out in offering.

“So beautiful. So ripe and full.” His golden hands covered mine and his thumbs circled my nipples. Fire shot through me and landed between my legs.

“Logan.”

He leaned toward me and covered my mouth with his.

His heated tongue slithered over my lips and plunged inside. He groaned and squeezed my breasts, then moved one hand upward, fisting it in my hair and urging me closer. The kiss was hungry, firm, drugging. He tasted of vanilla cream, of musky man.

Of sweet memory.

We devoured each other for precious moments, until I ripped my mouth away. I panted, breathless, as I pierced his warm blue gaze with mine. “You. Inside me.”

His eyes smoked. “You’ve never looked lovelier, Mary. Your nipples are like pebbles of carnelian.” He pinched one, then the other. I shivered.

“Are you wet for me, love?”

Wet. Gushing. “You know I am. Make love to me.”

He lowered his head and his firm red lips, swollen from our passionate kisses, encircled my nipple. He sucked, gently at first, then harder, until he tugged and bit me. “Ah, yes, Logan. Just like that.”

He swirled his tongue over the plump flesh, licking and nibbling, until he seized the other nipple and suckled. Juice trickled down my inner thigh.

“Logan. Lover. Please.”

He swept me into his arms and carried me to the bed. The bed that had once been ours. His body covered mine, wisps of black chest hair tickling my tender nipples. My sex throbbed. Ached.

“Look at me, Mary. Look into my eyes, and remember who I am.”

“I always remember, Logan. I never, never forget.”

He entered me in one smooth thrust. Sweet joining of bodies, of souls. He surged, claiming me, loving me, and my body shuddered, exploding into nirvana as he plunged, his golden muscles tensing when he spilled into me.

“Mary. I love you. Always.”

“And I love you, Logan. Forever.”

He released me, and within minutes my ebony wolf returned. He left the bed and settled in his usual spot by the door.

“One day, Logan, we’ll break this damned curse.”

I closed my eyes, recapturing my lover’s warm caress, praying I spoke the truth.

TGIF -- Jimmy Thomas

2009-06-12T11:26:00.002-06:00

Current read: Miner in Petticoats by Paty Jager

The Summer Meat-Wave continues with another luscious cover model. Jimmy friended me on MySpace several few months ago and asked if I'd be at RT this year. Yeah, I know -- he no doubt friended numerous romance authors for publicity, but let me have my fantasies ;). Jimmy is thirty-two and (no surprise here) is a personal trainer and model. From all accounts, he's a very nice person. One lucky lady at the RT conference won a raffle and got to have breakfast in bed with him... Enjoy the photos!

Interview: Romance Author Fran Lee!

2009-06-11T02:30:00.001-06:00

Please welcome the lovely and talented, Fran Lee!

Viola: Tell us a little about yourself. Fears? Accomplishments? Longings? Fantasies?

Fran: Wow. That leaves soo much territory to cover, Viola! And we only have a small page. Better keep it short and sweet.

I am not old exactly…but I certainly am not young. I have three adult children (two sons and a daughter) who think that their mom is both nuts and wonderful. (Not sure which on any given day, but they all seem to like the fact that their mom writes naughty books and gets paid to do it). It’s sort of like when I decided on a whim to learn karate. They just sort of rolled their eyes, but when mom finally got her black belt, they would tell their neighbors, “My mom can whip your dad!”

I have been writing for a LONG time, but never found the guts to submit anything. It was my son who finally said, “Just DO it!” I just showed him my most recent cover, and he said “Please don’t show that to my wife…that’s just TOO much to live up to!” LOL!

First, my fantasy is to get lost and find myself in a Never Never Land populated entirely with hot cover models. My fear is to wake up and find out it was only a dream. My accomplishments leave a great deal to be desired, but I will list those that I believe are worthy of sharing:

I have written over 100 books, short stories, and novellas. Of these, I have only submitted four to publishers, and have had all four picked up under contract by Ellora’s Cave and Resplendence Publishing. I wrote most of these stories over 20 years ago, and am simply “modernizing” and editing, then submitting.

My first book (Out of Her Dreams) out of Ellora’s Cave is being released June 12, 2009. My second book to be published, Dictated by Fate, will be released by Resplendence in August.

I hold a second degree black belt in Kenpo karate. (An impressive accomplishment because I started karate at age 45.) You should have seen me in a class full of five-year-olds. LOL!

I have six grandchildren (I count this as MY accomplishment because I managed to somehow raise my kids to adulthood so they could have kids of their own).

I do a daily column on Examiner.com where I interview authors, publishers, editors, and cover models (those hot, sexy guys who grace our books)! I also do book reviews there.

As for my longings? Um…too X-rated to discuss in mixed company. But I’ll be happy to discuss this x-rated subject with any male cover model brave enough to e-mail me. Or all…um…sorry…lost track for a minute there…

Viola: Great answers! And congratulations on your new release, Out of Her Dreams! Could you give us a blurb?

Fran: Of course! I was only waiting for you to ask…

Blurb:

Out of Her Dreams

By Fran Lee
June 12, 2009

Ellora’s Cave

She’s a best-selling erotic romance writer. Her fans adore her. She’s making excellent money. All by writing about a man she dreamed up many years ago. Her hero is handsome, virile, sexy, strong, sensitive and a complete gentleman.

He’s a hot-headed, sex-on-the-hoof pro wrestler. He has a reputation for being the hottest, nastiest man on the mats. The fact that his face and body are plastered all over a bunch of mushy romance novels written by a woman with a death wish doesn’t sit well on those massive shoulders. His agent’s demanding monetary retribution from the woman who’s dared to use his image on her covers but he has another form of retribution in mind…and it has nothing to do with money.

Viola: Ooh, sounds wonderful! What or who was your inspiration for writing this story?

Fran: Pro wrestling 20 plus years back was like a wonderful vaudeville show! The wrestlers were bigger than life and loads of fun to watch. I wrote this one after watching a live match, with the entire hullabaloo.

Pro wrestling has evolved massively since this was written, and when my grandson got hooked on WWE, and I was dragged to see some more recent, even hotter matches, I decided to pull it out of mothballs, dust it off, modernize it...and voila!

Viola: I love a heroine with a little sizzle and sass. What is your heroine’s biggest “vixen” moment? And how did the hero react?

Fran: Sam has lived vicariously through her books for the past two years, and has written about a man she met in her dreams, years ago. When she meets her hero’s dead ringer in a bookstore at a book signing, she is shocked to realize that her dream lover is a REAL man…and one who will probably sue her for everything she owns. She panics, heading for the stockroom to get her adrenaline back to normal. He corners her there and demands to know why she’s been using his image on her covers…without his permission.

A hot and lusty mutual attraction explodes between them, and they find themselves lip-locked and in a hot, rather frenzied embrace until someone knocks on the door to find out what’s going on. Sam almost has him undressed as she lets out her hot inner vixen, and he can’t help but respond.

As he is tucking in his shirt and buckling his belt, she says in embarrassment, “I have no idea on Earth where that just came from. I am so sorry. I was out of line completely. I sincerely hope you don’t plan to include molestation in your lawsuit.”

He stares at her like she’s crazy and rasps, “I don’t believe I’ve ever had a woman apologize to me before for me groping her, Miss Hastings. I wouldn’t worry about me suing you for that. But if you refuse my offer of dinner and a drink, I think that would definitely qualify as breach of promise.”

Viola: Sam sounds like my kind of heroine. What are you working on now?

Fran: I just finished second line edits on DICTATED BY FATE, due out August 25, 2009 from Resplendence. My Novella “Hallie’s Cats” has been contracted by EC.

I am working on a short story for an anthology, and I am modernizing another full length novel for submission to EC. I am still waiting for responses on three other short stories I recently submitted.

I suppose I’ll simply be playing it by ear until I know exactly what is accepted and what is rejected. Usually when I get a reject I just send it somewhere else, and it gets picked up immediately. I’ve been extremely lucky in that. Having a huge stack of already-written books makes it sooo much simpler. Most of the hard work was already done years ago.

Viola: Can’t wait to read them. Would you like to share an excerpt from Out of Her Dreams?

Fran: Certainly!

Excerpt:

Out of Her Dreams
2009 Ellora’s Cave

She walked slowly across the luxuriously thick carpet to the ready supper table set up before the fireplace and looked about the decadently fabulous room. Obviously he had planned on a very private dinner and drink. She touched the bottle of champagne and swallowed hard. Dear Lord. She didn’t know if she could manage being alone with him again. She didn’t realize she wasn’t alone until his voice made her turn with a little gasp.

“You have my book?” The sight of him standing in the doorway of the luxurious sitting room made her breath leave her in a startled whoosh.

Control yourself, Sam. It is not polite to stare and drool.

She nodded jerkily, opening the bag and taking out the hardback copy. “Of course. You paid for it.”

She held it out as he walked across the room to stop a couple of feet from her. He looked awe-inspiring in a beautifully tailored silk shirt that was open to show his corded neck and a pair of trim Armani slacks. The material sleekly covered but didn’t hide the massively muscled body beneath it and her mouth went dry again. God but that man had a walk—predatory and as sexy as hell.

She had no idea real live men could look so utterly marvelous and perfect. Dream men could but certainly not real ones. Heat pooled and swirled in the area somewhere below her navel, trickling into the suddenly damp center of her body as the man stalked toward her like some big cat on the prowl, those dark eyes moving down her body to her feet before returning slowly to her red face. A shot of something honeyed and hot surged through her at that look and she knew exactly what was on his mind because the exact same thing was running through hers.

He took the book from her hand slowly and opened it to the flyleaf, his dark eyes touching the autographed page for a long moment before returning to her face again.

“You were serious about that dream bit?” His voice was quiet. A small smile curved his lips.

Oh. My. God. That mouth.

She swallowed and nodded jerkily. “Yes.”

The sight of her standing beside the intimate little table for two sent a jolt of lust knifing through him almost painfully. David could almost taste her delicate floral perfume, along with the warm, delicious scent of a woman who craved what she saw. She stood bravely erect in an incredible blue silk dress that hugged every lush curve she possessed. The warmth of her body and the need in those emerald eyes fired his blood and made his groin swell and come alive with a vengeance. He found himself staring like an idiot. A horny idiot.

It was suddenly hard to remember why he had asked her to come. Was it to discuss the books, or was it simply to see her again? To take her and slowly strip her and taste her soft skin with his lips and tongue until she begged him to bury his cock inside her and finish it up right? Okay. That sounded good. Damn good.

She handed him the book with nervous hands and he wondered what those hands would feel like moving over his naked body. What she would think if he just tossed the damn book and dragged her against him to let her feel how rock-hard he was and how much he craved her. And as he opened it to stare at the autograph she had scrawled over the flyleaf page, he knew that she was not leaving here tonight until he had tasted every inch of that creamy skin.

Viola: Tantalizing excerpt! Fran, thanks for visiting with the Colorado Vixens. It was a pleasure having you on our blog!

Fran: Thanks so much for having me over today, Viola! It was a blast talking with you!

To find out more about Fran and her books, you can visit her on one of these sites:

http://www.franleeromance.com/
http://franleesromanceblog.blogspot.com/
http://franleesbookreviews.blogspot.com/
http://twitter.com/franleeromance
http://www.myspace.com/franleeromance
http://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=1597116568&ref=name
http://www.examiner.com/x-5288-Salt-Lake-City-Romance-Novels-Examiner
http://goddessesofstorytelling.blogpot.com/

Writers

2009-06-08T16:16:00.005-06:00

Okay, so I totally forgot that I was blogging today so if I ramble, then it's not my fault. It's the fault of my completely scattered brain and the fact that I absolutely have nothing to talk about. But I'll find a way. I usually do.

Being a writer is (or should be) a job. If you write as a hobby or an avocation, that's fine. Great. But you're not a writer. The same way people who build and fly model airplanes are not pilots.

I know, I know. I sound harsh and I don't mean to. There are a lot of people out there that do fly real planes, that are pilots, even if they never get a dime back from it. They spend their money, time, effort, and passion on something that calls to them deep in their souls. This is the same thing with writers. Whether we get published or not, if we never make a red cent from the stories that we craft in our head, we are writers.

And it's a job. A hard one. One that I don't always want to do, one that I don't always do, but the need for it, to put my thoughts, my characters, my passion into the written word is always there. Nagging me. Pulling at me.

I've heard from many, if not all, writers that you need to sit down at your workspace every day and write. Even if you don't want to. Even if your 'muse' is being a vindictive bitch and keeping conspicuously silent.

You. Write.

You can't just take off from your job every time you don't want to work. You'd be unemployed. The minute that I started looking at my writing as my career, things changed for me. They got a whole helluva lot harder. Because the sad part is, writing isn't just about writing, it's promoting, it's networking, it's learning the craft, and a million other things that you don't know until you get on the job. On the job training at its best...and worst. And as I always like to paraphrase from La Nora 'I can fix anything but a blank page.'

Writing is hard.

I have a full time job. I work hard and then I get to come home and do it some more. For free. Some days I lament the fact that I have no life but it's a sacrifice that I make because I want to be published. I will someday be published. However, if I'm not, then I hope that the inventors come up with a way to type with my eyes so that my 100 year-old arthritic hands get a break. I admire my CPs who have families and still write. At least I get to leave my work where it is. It doesn't follow me around asking for food, water, or love.

Writing is a vocation. A passion. A calling. A part of the soul. So feed it. Be happy. Be frustrated. Be angry. Be anxiety-ridden as you submit.

But write. Finish your ms.

Just by doing that, you're already ahead of the game.

Mr. Romance 2009 - Charles Paz!

2009-06-05T00:24:00.000-06:00

Our Summer Meat-Wave has begun. What better way to start than with an upclose and personal interview with Mr. Romance 2009, Charles Paz.

Welcome, Charles!!

Vixens: How do you feel when you see your cover or photos after a shoot?

Charles: I’m always excited to see the end product of a shot. I work hard to produce an image and to see what I end up creating is always cool.

Vixens: We love seeing the end product, as well. How did you get into modeling?

Charles: I started doing bodybuilding shows and looked in my best shape ever. I decided to use that potential and see what I can do with it. The rest is history.

Vixens: Thank you for that. Have you ever read a romance novel?

Charles: I’m being very honest and saying that no, I have not.

Vixens: Will you read the ones you pose for?

Charles: That’s a definite. I’ll love to read what I will be posing for. It’s a great way to pay respect to the author. I will also tell all my friends and family about the books so they will purchase and support them as well.

Vixens: What is the last book you read?

Charles: It was probably a children’s book, and I read it to baby girl before she went to sleep. =-)

Vixens: Very sweet! Tell us, what is your idea of a romantic evening?

Charles: Romantic evening? What are those? HAHAHA, it’s been a while. But I think that my idea would be dinner, hot tub, massages, wine, and the rest is your imagination =-)

Vixens: Nice. As you can probably guess, romance writers have a very vivid imagination, but help us out a little. Are you bilingual?

Charles: I speak a little bit of Spanish. I’m not fluent but know a little bit.

Vixens: Excelente! Enquiring minds want to know — how do you groom for a photo shoot? Do you have to shave/wax chest hair etc...?

Charles: I’m a furry little monkey. lol. I always have to shave or Nair my body hair. I manscape. I have to. But, when I do my nude shoots, the photographer always wants me to grow out my body hair, so it just depends on the type of shoot.

Vixens: Do you get recognized a lot? How does it make you feel?

Charles: The only time I get recognized is when I’m in the gym. I don’t walk on the street and have people say "Oh look, Mr. Romance." It’s more like "Oh, there’s the guy from the gym who helped me out," and stuff like that. I even sent the local newspaper an email and told them about me and what I have done. But no response. HAHAHA, I guess they would rather talk about how many cars got stolen rather than something positive, right?

Vixens: Honey, we’d rather read about you. Which leads us to the next question: As it pertains to sex, are you a giver or receiver?

Charles: HAHAHAHAHAHAHA!!! Well, what do you think? ;-)

Vixens: We think we want to know just a little bit more. What is your favorite sexual position?

Charles: Whatever position is pleasing to the woman I am with is my favorite. I enjoy making the woman happy more than pleasing myself. It may seem funny, but it’s true. I don’t think about myself. I focus 100% on making the woman happy.

Vixens: Good answer. Now for the really personal question: Do you ever get an erection during a photo shoot? If so, does it embarrass you?

Charles: HAHAHAHA, if you see the stuff I have had to shoot, you would understand why it’s hard to be professional. I’m a guy, dude! You put me in bed with a hot naked woman and show me any guy who wouldn’t get a little excited. I keep it professional. And if it happens, I quickly hide it, or find a way to calm down.

Vixens: So do you ever get tired of women fawning all over you?

Charles: PSSHH!!! How about "Do I get tired of not having women fawn over me?" I seriously do not get any love. I went to 3 clubs this weekend and I didn’t even get a name from any women at all. No approaches, no looks. But, I’m used to it. I wish there were more RT conventions, then Maybe I would get a date or two. HAHAHA

Vixens: Aw, come on now. We find that hard to believe. You must have a stalker or two peeking into your window at this very minute. No?

Charles: I’m actually wondering if having a stalker would be a good thing. At least someone would love me, right? lol

Vixens: The Vixens will stalk you whenever you want. Tell us how you keep that tight-ass body?

Charles: Now that is something I would rather show in person............ =-)

Vixens (eyeballing each other and smiling): Next RT convention, ladies?!?!

Fun Questions for Monica Kaye

2009-06-04T00:29:00.003-06:00

So, the Vixens apparently decided that it would be a fun thing to do a Q&A with yours truly, Monica Kaye, about my RT experience. They think I'm funny or something. They don't recognize mental illness when they see it.

This blog actually kicks off a special promotion here on the Vixens' blog. Stay tuned to the end of the interview for details.

And now... The Official Vixens' Interview of Vixen Monica Kaye!

V: Did you get to meet a favorite author?

M: Actually, yes. I got to meet quite a few. I love Jade Lee, she’s freaking hilarious! L.A. Banks was one of the nicest people ever! So was Cynthia Eden. I love Angela Knight. I actually told her that a couple years ago and she proceeded to take out a restraining order against me.

V: Did anyone besides your roomie see you in your PJs?

M: I don’t wear PJs so Tricia actually saw more than she wanted to. KIDDING!!! No, no one saw the goodies (and can I tell you my goodies are delicious!). There weren’t a lot of unattached men there, most were with wives and I guess the cover models have a ‘No Sex’ contract until after the Mr. Romance competition so...yeah.

V: What was the most shocking or awe-struck moments you experienced?

M: Something that people may not know about me is that I don’t tend to get awe-struck or star-struck. I think it’s fun to meet authors but I’m not crazy with it. I will stalk authors but that’s totally different. I’m sure I’ll stop once my stalkers start coming.

V: Are you going again next year?

M: UGH!!! Columbus! Who the fuck want to go to Columbus other than Vixen Helen who was born there (and quick to leave as I pointed out to her). Just the thought of Columbus depresses me. Go to Columbus! Pfft!

I already booked my ticket.

V: What was your most surreal moment?

M: I don’t think I had one. Except, I made eye contact with a tall, very pretty woman and I saw her again in the hall. Tricia and I started up a conversation and all the while I was thinking ‘She looks familiar.’ So Tricia, unaware, asks the woman, ‘What do you write?’ She smiled and said she wrote paranormal/urban fantasy. We chatted and then parted way with well wishes. As soon as she left, I turned to Tricia and gasped, ‘That was L.A. Banks!’

Nice!

V: What was your most embarrassing moment?

M: I know question comes from Tricia because she loves the retelling of it.

Okay, so after the Mr. Romance competition, we decide to go get dinner. On the way, we meet up with some buddies and we’re chatting. One of them has a computer and has been reading the twitters between the Smart Bitches and Heather Osborn of Tor. They were hilarious and she wanted me to read them. I oblige and take a step back, totally forgetting that I’m on a small step. I fall. On my ass. On the plus side, they tell me it was a graceful fall. I imagine that had it been the Olympics, my scores would have been between 9.5 and 9.8.

I’m a graceful bitch.

V: What was your favorite drink?

M: Tricia again. Uh, that’s a hard one because we drank. A lot. Several different types of alcohol but I was really digging the Mojito. Oh, and Swamp Water. Blue Hawaiian. Rum Runners. Pina Coladas. Oddly enough, Electric Lemonade? Not so much.

V: Of the balls, which was your favorite and why?

M: I didn’t get to see any of the models’ balls.

Oh! You meant parties. Right. I think the Vampire Ball. It had everything, a stage show, better food (at least edible) and WAY better music.

V: What was the best workshop you attended and why?

M: I really enjoyed the ‘He Sex/She Sex’ workshop. It was refreshing to get to speak with actual men about sex. A lot of questions centered around what men thought about after they got the woman naked. My favorite quote? When asked about what men thought about sex, Barry Eisler quoted his friend by saying ‘A man would sleep with an alligator if you drained the swamp.’ I laughed my ass off. Although I don’t know that I enjoyed being compared to an alligator.

Also, I missed the Screaming Orgasm. Again.

V: Which cover model was most drool-inspiring?

M: Oh, there were so many (but not as many as 2 years ago)! In terms of body, Franco had me drooling. He has the look (and body) of a man that would fuck your brains out so badly that you would need to call in to work the next day. He even confirmed it to Tricia (when she asked) and said that he would ‘Fuck the shit out of her.’

My kind of guy!

V: Tell us about some of the cover models you met. Which ones were your favorites? Why?

M: I always (and by ‘always’ I mean the 2x I met him) enjoy talking with Rodney. He is so smart and funny and nice. The women LOVE him. Franco was fun. I got to touch him a lot. Charles Paz, was ridiculously cute and sweet. His body is bangin’. He can make his titties move!!!! I loved that. We have a pic of me with him just as I come to that realization.

V: Who do you think should have won Mr. Romance?

M: Charles Paz. I voted for him. He was so outgoing and always friendly with the women. I wish he would have been MORE friendly with me but...I digress. Fortunately, he did win. We were so excited for him!

And speaking of hot guys…come back on Friday to the Vixens’ blog where will be have a special surprise for you as we kick off our first annual ‘Summer Meat-wave.’ I promise you won’t be disappointed!

The First Author of Romance

2009-06-01T06:00:00.000-06:00

Not many people know who, or where the first romance novel originated from. So I thought I would share the information with all of you.
Samuel Richardson was born August 19, 1689 in Derbyshire England where he was one of nine other children. He passed away on July 4, 1761 in London England. He was known as an English writer, printer and publisher.

He is best known for his work on Pamela (Virtue Rewarded), Clarissa (The History of a Young Lady) and The History of Sir Charles Grandison. He started his writing career at the young age of eleven when he would write love letters for young girls so they could give them to the boy of their dreams. Richardson felt a hand written letter conveyed the true character of the person writing it.

During his career, he published more than 500 varying articles and journal magazines. While working, he suffered the loss of his first wife, Martha Wilde along with their five sons. He married her after working as an apprentice for her father in a print shop. He later remarried Elizabeth Leake and had five daughter's that survived to adulthood, but sadly, he was left without a male heir to run the printing press. His first choice was a 1st nephew but after his death, Samuel was forced to leave it to a second nephew he did not trust. His intuition turned out to be correct. For shortly after acquiring the business, the quality of prints declined and the press eventually stopped running all together.

Although his business faded away he earned himself a legacy with the writing of his first novel at the age of 51. He became an overnight sensation and one of the most admired writers of his time. Pamela (Or Virtue rewarded) is considered one of the first romance novels ever written.

After June 1758, Richardson began to suffer from insomnia, and in June 1761, he was afflicted with apoplexy. Today, the afflictions is referred to as a stroke.

This moment was described by his friend, Miss Talbot, on 2 July 1761:"
Poor Mr. Richardson was seized on Sunday evening with a most severe paralytic stroke.... It sits pleasantly upon my mind, that the last morning we spent together was particularly friendly, and quiet, and comfortable. It was the 28th of May - he looked then so well! One has long apprehended some stroke of this kind; the disease made its gradual approaches by that heaviness which clouded the cheerfulness of his conversation, that used to be so lively and so instructive; by the increased tremblings which unfitted that hand so peculiarly formed to guide the pen; and by, perhaps, the querulousness of temper, most certainly not natural to so sweet and so enlarged a mind, which you and I have lately lamented, as making his family at times not so comfortable as his principles, his study, and his delight to diffuse happiness, wherever he could, would otherwise have done"

Two days later on July 4, 1761, Richardson died at Parson's Green and he was buried at St. Bride's church next to his first wife Martha Wilde Richardson.

Tune in next Wednesday to www.triciassinfulsundaysandwhatnot@blogspot.com and find out more about the Origin of the Romance Genre and the people who helped bring it to life.

TGIF (That Guy Is Fine) On a Saturday Morning

2009-05-30T10:16:00.007-06:00

Channing Tatum, born April 26, 1980 is an American actor, producer and former model. He began his career as a fashion model, and has since branched out into acting roles.

Love his scruffyness

Look at his smile

I would so love to have him for a weekend.

I apologize for showing him a day late. I hope he was well worth the wait

Tricia

Helen Hardt's Thai'd Up

2009-05-25T04:00:00.004-06:00

Yes, we have Helen Hardt Thai'd Up and answering questions for us today. Sorry, I couldn't resist. :-) Without further ado, and more cheesy jokes, please welcome our very own Helen Hardt!!

Viola: The CO Vixens know all about you but we figured we'd share you just for today. So could you tell our blog readers a little about yourself?

Helen: I’m an attorney and stay-at-home mom turned romance author and freelance editor. I met my real-life hero in law school, and we live in Colorado with our two teenage sons. I write contemporary, historical, paranormal, and erotic romance. I’m currently contracted with The Wild Rose Press and Ellora’s Cave. My non-writing interests include Harley rides with my husband, attending my sons’ sports and music performances, traveling, and Taekwondo. I’m a blackbelt, so don’t mess with me, LOL.

Viola: I'm exhausted just reading your answer. You're a busy lady! I'm in awe you still have time to write. Which leads me to...

Congratulations on your new release, Thai'd Up! Could you give us a blurb?

Helen:

Visiting Bangkok to do an interview for her employer, Heidi Clarke is intrigued by the wild and raucous nightlife. When a handsome and engaging stranger, dressed as the Phantom of the Opera, offers to escort her into a BDSM club, she's too curious to refuse. As the man behind the mask introduces Heidi to new and exciting pleasures of the flesh, she can't help but wonder who he is. Or if she really wants to know.

Viola: Meeting a masked mystery man in a foreign country - I can't think of anything more intriguing. What or who was your inspiration for this story?

Helen: This is the one story where I actually came up with the title first. I love the Destination Pleasure series over at The Wilder Roses. My first sale, Seduced in Seoul, was to that series. I was mulling over possible titles one day, and when Thai’d Up came to me, I knew I had to write that story! So my inspiration was the title.

Viola: It's a great title!! Now, I love a heroine with a little sizzle and sass. What is your heroine’s biggest “vixen” moment? And how did the hero react?

Helen: Heidi’s biggest vixen moment was probably going into the BDSM club with Phantom and then getting friendly with him at his private table. It’s not something she’d normally do, but in the redlight district of a foreign city, normal rules don’t apply ;).

Viola: Now there's a vixen I'd love to read about. So, tell me, what draws you to writing romance?

Helen: The happy ending, of course. Plus the heart-pounding emotion and physical love between the hero and heroine. Yes, I’m a sucker for the romance.

Viola: Me too! What are you working on now?

Helen: Edits, edits, and more edits! I have several other releases this year, so I’m busy. As for works in progress, I have two historical novellas, a cougar story, and an erotic novella.

Viola: Looking forward to reading them all! Would you like to share an excerpt of Thai'd Up?

Helen:
Excerpt:

He led her to one of the closed doors. “I can make all your fantasies come true, teerak.” He took her glass and set it on a small table against the wall. He set his own down as well and cupped her face in his hands. “Just tell me what you want. Anything.”

Anything? He couldn’t possibly be serious. She smiled, deciding to play with her Phantom a little. “What if I told you I wanted to make love on a Lear jet? At fifty thousand feet?”

“I’d charter one.”

Heidi scoffed. “Right.”

“I’m completely serious.” He dropped a hand to clasp one of hers, then led her fingers to the unmasked side of his face. His skin was smooth. And hot. “Tell me, my angel of music, what do you desire?” He turned his head slightly and brushed his lips over her palm. A simple whisper of contact caused a gush of fresh nectar from her pussy. Her skin prickled as he continued to rub his cheek into her hand. His other hand moved from her neck to open the door.

“I want to make your dreams come true, teerak,” he whispered, his breath a soft caress on her neck. “Just tell me what you want.”

“You,” she said, her voice a husky rasp. “I want you.”

“God, I was hoping you’d say that.” He crushed his lips to hers.

For a man who owned a BDSM club, he kissed with a gentle softness, nibbling across her upper lip, then her lower, tracing his tongue around her mouth, probing for entrance. With a soft sigh, she opened to him and let her tongue touch his. Her knees buckled at the sheer beauty of the kiss. Such pure emotion.

Her heart raced and little tingles traveled from her lips to every cell in her body, settling between her legs. He tasted of the wine they had shared, combined with a spicy musk flavor that was all him. All handsome stranger.

A stranger. She was kissing a stranger.

Frightened, she pulled away, but he held onto her. “No, please don’t make me stop.”

Viola: What a tease! So where can we find you on the web?

Helen: At my website, http://www.helenhardt.com/, and my blog, http://www.helensheroes.blogspot.com/. And of course here at the Vixens’ blog!

Viola: Thanks for the interview, Helen! Now, I guess we can untie you and let you go. Seriously, I've had the pleasure of reading Thai'd Up and it's an extra spicy read! Not to be missed. Blog readers, to get your copy, visit www.thewilderroses.com!!

New Hottie!

2009-05-22T10:00:00.003-06:00

Here is your Fine Guy for May 22nd!

WILL SMITH!

Seriously, he does something for me. I love him. And he's even sexier because he loves his wife and family so much.

ENJOY!

THAT BODY!!!

THAT FACE AND ESPECIALLY THAT SMILE!!!!

HE'S JUST THAT SEXY!

FORMAL WEAR I WANT TO REND FROM HIS BODY!

And because I can...A VIDEO!

THAI'D UP COMING FRIDAY

2009-05-20T11:37:00.003-06:00

Current read: Bound to Love Her by Esri Rose

Thai'd Up releases Friday, May 22 at The Wilder Roses. I was gearing up for a summer release, but my editor asked me to fill an upcoming slot, so I've been booking blog appearances right and left. Friday, you can find me hanging out with Monica and Catherine. I'll also be at Mama Writers. On Tuesday, I'll be visiting Cari, and on Friday, May 29, I'll be at Kaye's. The lovely Sarah at The Lovestruck Novice was kind enough to do a teaser for me, so please check that out as well. Thanks to all these wonderful friends for hosting me on such short notice!

Visiting Bangkok to do an interview for her employer, Heidi Clarke is intrigued by the wild and raucous nightlife. When a handsome and engaging stranger, dressed as the Phantom of the Opera, offers to escort her into a BDSM club, she's too curious to refuse. As the man behind the mask introduces Heidi to new and exciting pleasures of the flesh, she can't help but wonder who he is. Or if she really wants to know.

Busy, Busy, Busy... The Ins and Outs of Editing

2009-05-17T20:14:00.006-06:00

Current read: Bound to Love Her by Esri Rose

If you've been following my blog, Helen's Heroes, you know my next erotic release, Thai'd Up, is coming to The Wilder Roses on Friday. Yes, in five days. I had been expecting a midsummer release, but my editor needed me to fill this slot. So I'm busy proofing galleys, booking blog guest spots, and figuring out how to promote it in record time.

In addition, I just finished my initial revisions to my next Destination Pleasure short, Montego Lay, only to find in my inbox this morning my initial edits for Slow and Wet, my Ellora's Cave story that's coming in November. I am also now doing freelance editing work for two publishing houses.

Basically, I have edits on the brain. So I thought I'd take a little time to offer some editing tips here at the Vixens' blog.

Here are a few things to check before you submit your manuscript.

1. Head hopping. This is when the POV jumps around from character to character in a scene. It is disorienting to the reader and can hinder character and plot development. Yes, I know Nora Roberts head hops, but the rest of us are mere mortals ;). For new writers, I recommend sticking to one POV per scene. If you absolutely have to switch POV, use a scene break or a chapter break.

2. Lack of variety in sentence length and structure. Long sentences can add vivid colors to descriptive prose, as well as capture the essence of your writing on the page. Short’s good, too. Get the picture? The idea is to have variety. This goes for sentence structure as well. If you find that you’re beginning a lot of your sentences with participial phrases, try action verbs instead. They are much stronger anyway. If you see a paragraph that’s full of a certain structure (for example: Something happens AS something else happens) then reevaluate. Varying sentence length and structure will help keep your reader interested.

3. Lack of sensory detail. Sensory detail is extremely important in romance writing. The reader should be able to see, hear, feel, taste, and smell everything the character does. Don’t tell the reader that your character is nervous. Show her rapid pulse, her fluttering tummy. Help your reader get into your character’s skin; otherwise your reader won’t care as much as she should. This leads to...

4. Lack of physical and emotional chemistry between the hero and heroine. This is the backbone of the romance novel. How do their bodies physically react to each other? What thoughts are going through their minds? Descriptions of hands and tongues doing stuff is always fun, but if there’s no physical and emotional reaction, it gets boring real fast. Your reader should be as in love with the hero as the heroine is.

5. Typos and misspellings. A few can be forgiven, but when they occur on every other page, it’s a turn off for an editor. I know there are writers out there (my father is one) who absolutely cannot spell. That’s okay. Just have a friend or critique partner (who can spell) read through your manuscript before you submit.

Here are some of my favorite resources for writers:

The Elements of Style by William Strunk Jr. and E.B. White (If you have only one writing resource, this should be it!)

The Writer’s Digest Grammar Desk Reference by Gary Lutz and Diane Stevenson

Goal, Motivation and Conflict: The Building Blocks of Good Fiction by Debra Dixon

Techniques of the Selling Writer by Dwight V. Swain

On Writing by Stephen King

The Romance Writer’s Handbook by Rebecca Vinyard

Passionate Ink: A Guide to Writing Erotic Romance by Angela Knight

The Complete Writer’s Guide to Heroes and Heroines by Tami D. Cowden, Caro LeFever, Sue Viders

Empowering Characters’ Emotions online course by Margie Lawson, http://www.margielawson.com/

The W Plot: The Other White Meat for Plotters online course by Karen Docter, http://www.karendocter.com/

What are your favorite writing resources?

Now if only I had the time to do some actual writing...

TGIF -- Got Chocolate?

2009-05-15T08:01:00.003-06:00

Current read: Columbine by Dave Cullen
Yes, with a little help from Kealie over at The Menagerie, I've identified our chocolate hunk. He's Matthias Streitwieser, an Israeli-Greek model. He stands 6' 2 1/2" tall. And that's about all the information I could find about him. So just enjoy looking!

Angel Vindicated Available Tomorrow!

2009-05-13T14:47:00.005-06:00

ANGEL VINDICATED

Sexy Urban Fantasy eBook

Available Thursday, 5/14/2009

www.cerridwenpress.com or

www.violaestrella.com

Blurb:

Abby Angel may not enjoy being a law enforcement Angel for Demon Control, a branch of Angels Inc, but she excels at it. Deporting unruly demons back to Hell is her specialty. Her personal life, on the other hand, could use a little work. The virtuous and pristine genes seem to be missing in this particular Angel, getting Abigail in trouble more than she likes to admit. To date, her biggest vice has been Simeon Keller, a half demon/half human, who effortlessly managed to seduce Abigail five years ago. She’s avoided him ever since but she still can’t seem to knock the bad reputation the blunder has branded on her.

Now, the threat of a demon rebellion has Angels, Inc overwhelmed, and Abby must trust Simeon to help her find and deport the fiends who are attempting to destroy earth’s only salvation. Staying out of Simeon’s bed is the least of her worries as she fights for her life and the lives of all Angels and humans everywhere.

Excerpt:

(Rated "sorta R" for my heroine's "vixen" moment with

Simeon the half demon/half human hottie.)

Leisurely, he swept off my jacket and the blanket covering me. “I don’t think we need these anymore. I’ll keep you warm.” He wrapped his powerful arms around my waist and crushed me to his lean, taut body.

The inside of my thighs quivered from just listening to the sound of his honey-smooth voice. It occurred to me that I wasn’t the seductress. I was the prey. Frankly, I didn’t care one teensy bit now that his mouth was on my neck, licking and lightly nipping at the sensitive area just below my ear.

Mesmerized, I ran my hands up and down his biceps, over his wide shoulders and across his chest. Every inch was solid perfection. I wanted to explore more of him…with much less clothing between us.

As if reading my mind, he reached and tugged off his t-shirt. “I love the feel of your hands on me,” he murmured and pressed a kiss to my lips. “Be careful of your thumb though, love.” He grinned playfully. “I don’t want to be deported from heaven to Hell without a good reason.”

“Don’t give me a reason then,” I joked along but casually tucked my thumbs into my palms. He wasn’t going anywhere.

“Mmm.” He gripped my bottom and pressed my heat to the abundant erection in his pants.“You’re going to be the death of me, aren’t you?”

“Never.” I wrapped my arms around his neck and boldly molded my lips to his mouth, sensually flicking my tongue against his. I rocked my hips toward him, feeling him grow even larger.

“We’re going to the bedroom.” His voice rumbled in my ear as he lifted me.

I wrapped my legs tightly around his waist, happy to go wherever he wanted to take me.

Thankfully it was to a place where I could get rid of the rest of his clothes. I wanted to see and touch every inch of him. Five years of fantasizing was too long. I couldn’t hold back anymore.

~~~~~~

Viola Estrella

Who are We if not Dreamers and Imaginists?

2009-05-11T09:00:00.005-06:00

Current Read: Red Fire by Deirdre Knight

Okay, I made up that last word but I think it fits. I was having a difficult time coming up with something to write about today until a conversation that I had at RT came back to me and made me think.

I was speaking to an author about her latest book. It was the second in the series and I remember the heroine because she was in the first book, I liked her, plus she seemed to be Black. I'm always looking for a great IR story so I was super excited to read that this heroine was going to have her own story.

However, when I picked up the book and started reading it (before RT) the heroine was changed and she was no longer Black. Hmmm. Weird. Even though the author hadn't directly come out and stated that the heroine was Black, she had cafe au lait skin which led me to believe that she was mixed.

So, being the person that I am, I asked the author about this. She told me that she had originally intended the character to be Black but was talked out of it my other author friends because she wasn't Black herself.

I was floored. What? This made no sense to me. I spoke with my CP Tricia about this and she too was told that she wasn't 'supposed' to write stories with Black heroes or heroines because she wasn't Black.

This was news to me. Yes, I am Black but I'm a writer. I use my imagination on a daily basis. I'm not white but I write Caucasian heroes. Should I not just because I'm Black? No. That's why we were blessed with imagination. I've never been a cop but I can do my research and write a pretty believable cop. I've never flown a plane, yet I can write a pilot into my stories. It's called imagination and skill. I don't get upset that there are Caucasians out there writing outside of their race. We should all stretch our imagination, beyond what we know and even beyond our comfort zone.

Now, I know that there are some publishers and some lines that cater to Black readers and only accept Black authors and I can't fault them if that's what they want to do. But a couple weekends ago I met a Black author that wrote spicy Regency historical romance. Should she not be able to have her book published because she's Black and back then we (people of color) weren't exactly thick on the ground in the Regency landscape? No. It's wrong. She wrote the book of her heart with the characters that had taken up residence in her head.

So that's what I want to tell all of you. Write what you love, what you dream, whatever your imagination conjures up. Don't be afraid or pull back because this one said one thing and another said something different.

At RT, I was in a seminar with Brenda Jackson and she was talking about the difficulty she had with getting her books published because the heroes and heroines were Black. One publisher told her that she loved the story and would definitely publish the book if the hero and heroine were white. Brenda refused much to the chagrin of her husband. But that's not who and what her characters were and to change that would change them and the story. She kept at it and almost twenty years later, she's a NYT Bestselling author.

Because she was a Dreamer and an Imaginist!

Now go write!

TGIF - Milo Ventimiglia

2009-05-08T10:11:00.009-06:00

Milo Ventimiglia.

Otherwise known as Peter Petrelli from Heroes.

Born: July 8, 1977

What can I say? He's a hero.

New Website is Live

2009-05-05T21:19:00.002-06:00

I am so excited, my new web site is up and running. Rae Monet www.raemonetinc.com did a great job depicting the type of stories I write.

Stop by and take a peek and have some fun at www.tricialeighwood.com.

We still don't have any winners.
Name the two Vixens that slept together and you will win a prize.
Drop us an email and cast your votes.

Happy Webbing ;)
Tricia

Romancing the Rockies

2009-05-03T21:06:00.003-06:00

This past weekend, the Vixens attended 2009 Romancing The Rockies Conference.
http://www.coloradoromancewriters.org/

We were all in awe of our keynote speakers, Sherrilyn Kenyon and Diana Love.
The story of their road to publication was an inspiration to us all whether we were published or not. They were at ease with their fans and eager to help those in need of their expertise.

I found some of the workshops helpful and the time spent pitching to editors and agents encouraging. Helen, Monica and I were all asked for partials as well as full requests.

Within the past two weeks, I have spent more time in hotels than out.
Monica and I attended RT in sunny Florida and a week later the four us attended our local conference.

Both conferences were useful in many ways. There is nothing more exhilerating than being around a favorite author, meeting and talking with those that understand and appreciate all the dedication, hard work and devotion that goes into completing a manuscript. They also know how difficult it is to get your work into the hands of the right editor or agent.

At RT Monica and I met several wonderful people. Some who will be long distance friends, some who have agreed to be guests on our blog in the next coming months. Some who are the heros that grace the front of the books we love. In addition to those heart throbs we will meet with the son of a prolific author and his highly comedic friend.

In addition to meeting and making friends with people from all over the world, I have come to know my fellow Vixens even more. I couldn't have a better group of friends or critique partners.

By the way, two of the Vixens slept together.
Do you think you can guess which two?
Take the challenge and win a prize.

Happy Reading
Tricia

TGIF (That Guy Is Fine)

2009-05-01T09:28:00.012-06:00

I just have to say I enjoyed my week of fun in sunny Florida where the air was balmy, the sun was bright and the palm trees swayed in the warm breeze. I had a blast with my fellow critique partner Monica Kaye. If you stop by her blog you'll find a hilarious accounting of our week there together. The only thing that would have made it better, was the attendance of our other Vixens.

I could go on and on about our time there but it is time for our weekly TGIF.

So without further ado, I give you our Friday hottie.

Jonathan Rhys Meyers was born July 27, 1977, in Dublin, Ireland.

He is probably best known for his role as King Henry in Showtimes original series, The Tudors.

He also played in August Rush as a struggling rock star.

Not only is he good looking, he can sing as well.

Something about his smile :)

In The Tudors we get several peeks at his chest and abs.

His accent is sooo HOT!

And his eyes just look right through you.

Had to sneek him in. He costars with Meyers in the Tudors.

Love Struck Singer in August Rush

King Henry and the Duke

Look at this BAD BOY!

I think cigarettes are disgusting, but he makes them look sexy as hell.

In the summer months to come, the Vixens have a special treat for all who visit.

Our TGIF's will practically sizzle on the page.

More news and information will follow in the weeks to come.
Until next time,
Tricia

NEW CONTRACT

2009-04-29T13:27:00.003-06:00

Current read: Fantasy Lover by Sherrilyn Kenyon

I've been sitting around waiting for someone to post about RT--hint, hint ;)--but since no one has, I'll post my news.

My editor, Diana, offered me a contract for another Destination Pleasure short at The Wild Rose Press, Wilder Roses. This one takes place in Jamaica and is entitled (drum roll, please) Montego Lay.

Be sure to stop over to see my hunk today. He's a cover model and he was at RT, so I'm dying to know if either Monica or Tricia met him. He's yummy!

The Art of the Sex Scene

2009-04-27T04:00:00.002-06:00

Need some help writing a sex scene? I’m not an expert by any means but I have been noticing more and more what works and what doesn’t. While reading other romance stories and while working on my own, I’ve come to a few conclusions so I thought I’d share.

What every successful sex scene needs:

Cause and effect – An action can’t go unnoticed. If the hero touches the heroine here and especially there, she must respond and vice versa. The response can be physical, emotional, verbal, or all of the above. What happens if she doesn’t respond? Well, then we don’t know if she’s enjoying his touches and it will seem as though the hero is having all the fun. Each action should have some sort of consequence.

Emotion – A sex scene without emotion is just actions. It’s cold and it’s bland. It’s porn. Show it through actions, internal dialogue, and regular dialogue.

Setting – It’s all about the ambience, baby. Let the reader know what’s all around the happy couple, whether it’s a cold dark hotel room or a quickie on the grass under the stars.

Dialogue – A great way to show emotion, suspense, wit, sexual tension. But make sure it’s appropriate to the scene.

The five senses – Utilize as much of the senses as you can. The taste of skin, tongue, whipped cream… The feel of the stiff comforter, silk sheets, cold tile, lumpy sofa… The sound of a whimper, soft music, bubbling bath… The sight of the flickering fireplace, tensing muscles, fluttering eyes… The scent of perfume, burning candles, salty skin, happy juice…

…Which leads me to:

No Purple Prose – Ever.

Like I mentioned above, I’m not an expert so let me know if I forgot anything.

And tell me, how do you like your sex scenes?

Viola

It's Times Like These That I Need an iPhone!

2009-04-25T00:06:00.004-06:00

Days at RT Convention: 3

Free Books: 40

Hours of Sleep: 4

Experience: Pricesless

That way, I could do this damn blog and not have to worry about a slow ass internet connection that wouldn't let me on earlier so that I could actually do this blog at the time I was supposed to.

So Tricia and I are in sunny Orlando, Florida at the RT Book Lovers Convention and having a fucking blast! The only thing missing is our CPs. Every couple hours, we turn to each other and say, "I wish Vi and Helen were here!" Maybe next year, but that's in Columbus, Ohio. WHO THE FUCK WANTS TO GO TO COLUMBUS?!?!

Anyhoo, I will definitely blog later about (some) of the haps. The rest is not fit for public consumption but will definitely keep Vi and Helen in stitches.

But, now without further ado and in honor of the convention, I present your guy.

Cover Model JASON SANTIAGO!

My Name is Helen...and I Write Erotic Romance

2009-04-19T13:53:00.002-06:00

Current read: Game On by Liza James

There, I’ve said it. I read erotic romance. I love erotic romance. I write erotic romance. I’m proud of what I do.

We romance writers live with a stigma in the publishing world. It’s not right, and it’s not fair, considering romance is the biggest selling genre in fiction today. Yet still we’re considered the riff-raff of fiction writers. And those of us who write erotic? As my friend and fellow Vixen, Monica Kaye, put it, “Erotic romance is to romance as romance is to general fiction.” Well said. And again, not fair.

I didn’t start out thinking I would write erotic romance. When I began experimenting with writing romance a few years ago, I found I enjoyed writing to the steamy side. Then I discovered erotic romance, enjoyed reading it, and thought I might enjoy writing it. I still write in the contemporary, paranormal, and historical genres, as well. Basically, I write the genres I like to read, and erotic romance is no exception.

Like romance in general, erotic romance is often misunderstood. So what exactly is erotic romance? This question is more easily answered by explaining what erotic romance isn’t.

Erotic romance is not pornography. Pornography is written (or filmed) only to sexually arouse. There may be a plot, or there may not be. But there will be explicit sex, and lots of it. Erotic romance is not erotica. Erotica is sexually explicit writing which has a plot and is more literary in nature than pornography. There is often a sexual journey of sorts, and there isn’t always a happy ending.

Erotic Romance is, at its core, romance. As in any romance, there is a well developed hero and a well developed heroine, both with goals, motivation, and conflict. There is a plot. And there are love scenes. The difference between erotic romance and traditional romance is that the love scenes are longer, more explicit, and contain graphic language. Sometimes the scenes will contain elements of alternative lifestyles, such as BDSM. But the love scenes serve a purpose other than to arouse (although sometimes they do, of course) or to illustrate a character’s self-discovery (although sometimes they do.) The love scenes exist to develop the relationship between the hero and heroine and to help move the plot along to its ending, which will, of course, be a happy one. This is still romance, after all.

As in any romance genre, there are poorly written erotic romance stories in the world – stories where the sex seems gratuitous and exists only as filler. I've read many love scenes in erotic romance that are no more than tongues thrusting, lips sucking, body parts slapping together. The key to a successful erotic romance, as it is with any romance, is emotion. It isn’t the sex that gives the reader those “belly tugs” we all live for. It’s the emotion behind the sex. In this regard, erotic romance is no different from any other type of romance.

So whether you choose to write sweet, spicy, or erotic, remember that we’re all in this together. Romance is romance, and we’re in the biggest fiction industry in the nation!

TGIF -- Ignacio Casano

2009-04-17T08:55:00.006-06:00

Current read: Leticia's Lovers by Shelley Munro

Oh, that guy is so fine! Ignacio appeared two days ago as my hump-day hunk at Helen's Heroes, but I didn't think anyone would mind seeing more of this beautiful man. Enjoy!

Coming Soon!!

2009-04-16T10:32:00.003-06:00

I'm so excited!! My baby, Angel Vindicated, is on the Coming Soon page at the Cerridwen Press site. Yay!

Here's the link:

http://www.jasminejade.com/s-47-coming-soon-cp.aspx

Viola
www.violaestrella.com

The Origin of the Romance Genre

2009-04-15T10:38:00.002-06:00

Some things new, nothing overly exciting but I thought you might be interested to learn how the Romance genre came about.

Stop by www.triciassinfulsundaysandwhatnot@blogspot.com to find out how the largest selling genre came into existence and learn who the people were that inspired the movement.

Happy Reading and Writing Everyone,
Tricia

Race and Love

2009-04-13T13:57:00.005-06:00

Hello all our peeps out there in bloggerland!

I hope you all had a wonderful Easter Sunday (if you celebrate it, if not, I hope you had a wonderful Sunday). I hope that the Easter Bunny filled all of your baskets to the brim. As for me, the Bunny and I are going to have a conversation. The bastard short-shrifted me! Not one piece of chocolate was to be found in my house! But there was ham and turkey and plenty of friends and family. And in my case, a mother scheming to find a way to introduce me to some guy I don't know. (Incidentally neither does she. She knows his mother. He could look like Godzilla for all she knows!)

Anyhoo, enough of the family drama, I need to think of something to say here.

So as some of you may know if you've visited my blog or my new cool website that I designed with my two widdle hands www.authormonicakaye.com, I write interracial romance. (Side note: I just found out that there were guidelines to interracial romance. The hero can be any race but the heroine has to be black. What's up with that? I'm not sure that I believe the woman who told me that. There are lots of books with black heroes and Caucasian or other race heroines so I don't know what she was talking about.)

As a product of an interracial relationship (although maybe not really since my mom is Puerto Rican) I have always been drawn to these stories, although they are few and far between. In fact, it was an interracial romance that got me started back on writing a few years ago and I have been gung ho ever since. I love these stories and I believe that the general public would love them as well. However, I don't think that New York has caught on as quickly as the rest of the world.

If you move in the IR romance circles, you will hear the constant battle that struggle to get IR in the door at some of the big publishing houses. Some authors have been successful, like Sandra Kitt, Lisa G. Riley, Shelley Laurenston. But for the most part, we IR authors are still struggling. Now, I will tell you that I have spoken with editors and agents who say that color in a book means nothing as long as the story is good and I want to believe them but when I have only seen two HQ covers with an interracial couple, I have to take what they say with a grain of salt.

I kind of feel like IR is an emerging market. Like erotica was back in the day when it was hidden in e-books. Now every publishing company and its mother has an erotic romance imprint. I can tell you that IR sells well, very well, with e-pubs, mostly because that's where we can find it most readily.

Another problem is that a lot of IR romance tends to get shelved in the African America section of the bookstore rather than in the romance section. Let's face it, there aren't a lot of Caucasian, or Black people for that matter, that are going to be shopping there unless they're looking for one book in particular. I know that when I want a romance novel, I'm going to look, oh, I don't know, in the romance section. That can be a problem for a romance novelist trying to break into the market because in order to get another book published, you need a decent sell-through which you won't have if you're book isn't shown off to its best advantage. Recently, there was an author who successfully sued her publisher because she wrote an IR romance and her publisher decided to market her book a African American fiction and she claimed that it hurt her sales. Like I said, she SUCCESSFULLY sued.

So, I guess this all leads me to the question, can IR make a splash in New York? Do we IR authors get treated unfairly? I don't know. I'm not published so I can't give you an answer. I do know that I'm not white (gasp! THE HORROR!) and I don't write about two white people falling in love because it's not true to who I am. I read about it all the time but that's because I love romance novels and that's what's typically in stories that are on the bookshelves. I do wish that there were more IR stories on the bookshelf, not only online, because I love to hold them in my greedy hands. I don't care about color and I don't think that other people do either as long as it's a well-written story, about a once in a lifetime love, that has that oh, so wonderful happily ever after.

What do you think?

TGIF - X-Men Origins

2009-04-10T16:06:00.013-06:00

Because I'm late in posting today, I thought I'd give an extra special treat. Instead of That Guy Is Fine, how about the plural version... Those Guys Are Fine.

The men from the upcoming movie, X-Men Origins:

Hugh Jackman as Wolverine

Ryan Reynolds

Taylor Kitsch

Daniel Henney

Dominic Monaghan

PASSION IN PARIS RELEASES FRIDAY and I sold to Ellora's Cave!

2009-04-08T09:37:00.002-06:00

Current read: Blue-Eyed Devil by Lisa Kleypas

Passion in Paris is coming on Friday to The Wilder Roses! I have a little blog tour scheduled, so please visit me. Here's the calendar of events:

Friday, April 10, I'll be blogging with Kaye Manro and The Pink Fuzzy Slipper Writers.

Monday, April 13, my hero, Blaise, will make an appearance at Helen's Heroes, and I'll be at Mama Writers.

Tuesday, April 14, I'll be visiting my good friend and critique partner, Cari Quinn.

Friday, April 17, I'll be blogging with the lovely Christina Phillips.

And my other big news -- Ellora's Cave has picked up my short story Slow and Wet! It will be published in November as part of their "Wet" theme. I'm very excited to be part of Ellora's Cave. Some of my favorite authors write there, and other favorites started there and made the leap to New York.

Be sure to head over to Helen's Heroes to check out today's hunk. Here's a preview:

A Day without Modern Conveniences

2009-04-06T09:29:00.004-06:00

Thursday night and Friday morning, my internet was down. I checked several times throughout the day and performed all tof he troubleshooting tricks I know of to get the darn thing working. No such luck the information highway refused to cooperate despite my best, although limited efforts.

On top of it all, I dropped my cell phone in the friggin toliet Friday morning. So all and I do mean all of my contact information was lost to me. I didn't know how to reach anyone. What ever happened to the good old fashioned days when everyone kept address books?
Throughout the day I worried and fretted over TGIF. How was I suppose to let my critique partners know I was unable to post our Friday hottie? I didn't have their numbers memorized and I couldn't email them. What was I to do?

The four of us usually meet at Borders and although I have a general idea of where Viola and Monica live, Helen's is the only house I have been to. Since she lives fairly close to me, I decided to drive over her house and let her know my internet was down and I was unable to deliver the hottie to our followers.

Half way there, I remembered the four of us exchanged business cards the day before at our critique meeting. I pulled over and dug in my purse. I pulled out Viola's card which only listed her email adress. I shoved hers back into my wallet. Next was Helen's. Same thing no number. Hers went back into my wallet. I pulled out Monica's and down at the bottom I found a number and silently blessed her wisdom. I frantically called and got a hold of her. She gracioulsy agreed to post our Friday hottie and she was even kind enough to use the man of my choice.

I can not even begin to fathom a guess as to how long it is going to take me to relocate and down load all of the information I had in my phone. I keep asking myself, why didn't you have a back up? Why do you rely upon a simple electronic device to store all of your valuable information?

Like all of you, I save all of my writing to my internal drive on my computer as well as an external one. I've decided I need a back up to my back up. One just isn't enough. I want to cry over the loss of a few numbers and address's. Well, it was more than a few but anyway I think you get my point. I think I would have a mental relapse if I lost all of my writing. I've also decided, I'm going to go out and get me one of those good old fashioned address books and keep all my contact information in them so the next time I drop my phone in the toilet it will only be a matter of transfering information.

I've been eyeing the Iphone for some time. I think I subconcioulsy dropped my phone in the toilet just so I could have one.

How many of you rely entirely on your electronic devices to hold valuable information?

Until next time,
Tricia

We Interrupt This TGIF...

2009-04-03T19:16:00.008-06:00

Sorry for the lateness of the TGIF but I got a frantic call a couple hours ago from my good friend Tricia who said that her internet was down in the house and could I pretty please with sugar on top post the TGIF blog this week. I said of course, of course.

And in honor of my poor internetless friend, I present to you...

DAVID BECKHAM

I could have found pictures of him clothed...but why?

New Cover Art for THAI'D UP

2009-04-01T09:22:00.002-06:00

Current read: Maverick Heart by Joan Johnston

Angela Anderson has done it again! This was a difficult story to create a cover for, but she did a fabulous job. I love it. My hero does wear a white mask (a la Phantom of the Opera) and the hair colors are spot on for both characters. Thank you, Angela!

Blurb:

Visiting Bangkok to do an interview for her employer, Heidi Clarke is intrigued by the wild and raucous nightlife. When a handsome and engaging stranger, dressed as the Phantom of the Opera, offers to escort her into a BDSM club, she's too curious to refuse. As the man behind the mask introduces Heidi to new and exciting pleasures of the flesh, she can't help but wonder who he is. Or if she really wants to know.

Be sure to stop by my blog for today's hunk!

Helen

SEDUCED IN SEOUL available at www.wilderroses.com
"It kept me smiling on every page!" --The Romance Studio
PASSION IN PARIS coming 4/10/09
THE OUTLAW'S ANGEL coming 6/5/09 in LAWMEN AND OUTLAWS, a Wild Rose Press Bouquet
BLOOD WOLF coming soon
www.helenhardt.com
www.helensheroes.blogspot.com

The Relevance of Sex

2009-03-30T04:00:00.003-06:00

What are some of the things that come to mind when you think of romance novels? When you pick up that book from the shelf and open to the first page, what are your expectations? What sort of journey do you want the book to take you on?

When I pick up a romance, I look forward to a few things:

- A good story with conflict that keeps me turning the pages.

-A hero and a heroine with noticeable character arcs. I want to see how they change so I can cheer for them, cry for them, or scream at them.

-A setting that’s either intriguing or familiar. It could be anywhere but I want to be able to see it in my head.

-Last but definitely not least, when I pick up a romance novel, I expect it to have sizzling sexual tension followed by mind-boggling sex. I’ve never smoked a cigarette in my life, but after reading a good sex scene, I want to think about taking it up.

Some might ask what the relevance is. Why does the sex matter? Can’t we close the doors and keep the details left to the imagination? Don’t these scorching sex scenes lessen the value of the romance novel? Why it’s sometimes considered smut?

I think not.

Here’s why:

1. Sex causes conflict. Did it happen too soon? Did it stir up feelings they hadn’t counted on? Did it cause an unwanted pregnancy? Did it draw them closer together when circumstances are tearing them apart?

2. Sex gives us a happy ending. Sexual tension had been building throughout the story and the reader is hoping and praying they finally give into their desires. And when they do, it’s magic. Or it should be anyway.

3. Sex can change everything. The heroine had fooled herself into thinking she could have a one night stand with the hero, but the tender way he touches her causes her to think twice. Or the hero thinks the heroine is a bit of an ice queen…until he gets her under the covers.

And my favorite reason:

4. Sex comes with emotions. This is when the hero or heroine shows their innermost vulnerabilities. And we discover more about them than we would have with the doors closed.

So what do you think? Is sex in romance novels relevant? Or should we close those doors and throw away the key?

Viola
www.violaestrella.com

TGIF

2009-03-27T15:47:00.007-06:00

In a never-ending quest to prove myself a liar, I present this week's Hottie.

SIMON BAKER!

(Yes, he is blonde. But he also proves that he needs to be SUPER HOT to make my list!)

And if you haven't seen him the the movie 'Something New' RUN and GET IT!!!

As close to shirtless as I could find!

Just sexy!

SIGH!

Put him in MY backseat!

MY WEBSITE!

2009-03-25T16:30:00.001-06:00

So I just have to brag. I'm not a technophone. In fact, I LOVE Technology but some things are just hard. Like building a website by yourself.

BUT I DID IT!!!!

So go check me out at www.authormonicakaye.com!

REVIEWS: A Rant From Our Sponsor...

2009-03-22T12:43:00.006-06:00

Current read: Shaken and Stirred by Kathleen O'Reilly

I don't usually read reviews. Not because I don't see any value in them, but mainly because with everything else on my plate, I just don't have the time. But a few days ago, I was procrastinating -- didn't want to start my taxes ;) -- so I decided to read a few random reviews.

One review in particular stood out. A first time author got thrown to the wolves. I won't mention the author or the review, as I don't want to draw attention to it for the author's sake. But as an author myself, I know this must have cut like a knife. I'll be the first to admit that this reviewer is entitled to her own opinion. God knows I have mine. But what is the point in cutting someone down like that publicly? I decided to do a little investigation into this reviewer. Do you know what I found out? She's an aspiring author!

Now I don't know this author or this reviewer, but I can tell you how this review affected me. Despite the review, I might buy the book. No matter what the reviewer thought of it, that book represents someone's creativity, someone's soul. She found the courage to put herself out there, and she didn't deserve to be trashed. Plus, reviews are extremely subjective. I've read negative reviews for books I enjoyed, and positive reviews for books I didn't.

The reviewer hasn't fared nearly so well in my esteem. What she did to that debut author was inexcusable. It's bad enough for a reviewer to trash a book, but a reviewer who hopes to get into the business herself? What on earth was she thinking? Suffice it to say I won't be rushing to buy her work if she gets published.

Should authors (or aspiring authors) do reviews? What do you think? Personally, I'm happy to review a book that I adored. I've done so for several of my writer friends. But I would never post a less than flattering review. I'm in the business. No author should burn bridges, in my humble opinion. And honestly, as an author myself, I wouldn't want to hurt a fellow author. So if I didn't enjoy a certain book, I just wouldn't review it. Simple enough.

Enjoy your Monday. For those of you traveling for spring break, have a great time! And if any of you are lucky enough to be traveling to Scotland, I hope you get to see some of the gorgeous sites...below.

TGIF -- Caco Ricci

2009-03-20T08:57:00.005-06:00

Current read: Seventh Heaven by Cate Masters

I'm cheating a little today. This Brazilian hottie is a former Helen's Heroes hunk. But he's so delicious I had to feature him here at the Vixens. Caco is a model and actor, and speaks fluent Portuguese, English, and Italian. And he just happens to be the face in mind for the hero of my cougar story, which I'm starting next week. Enjoy!

Calling All Published Authors

2009-03-18T16:42:00.003-06:00

Hello again!

I'm going to be starting a new segment on my blog, Monica Kaye's Harmless Smut, called 'First Sale Fridays' where published authors get to guest blog about the day they made their first sale, how it felt, and impart any bit of knowledge about the process or the journey to publishedhood.

So if you're interested, please e-mail me at monicakaye at gmail dot com.

Thanks and I hope everyone is having a FABULOUS week!

Later gators!

Monica

How do you solve a problem like Worldbuilding?

2009-03-16T09:00:00.004-06:00

Hello all you Vixen fans!

Welcome to another disjointed rambling from Monica Kaye. Well, it won't really be rambling but it may be random. I have a lot of things on my mind lately which is dangerous when you have ADHD and get distracted by pretty, shiny things. But I promise that I will try to at least make this a coherent rambling.

So who else believes that worldbuilding is hard as hell? I am in the process of writing my first 'paranormal' romance although I use the term loosely. My book is about a pixie. Now, I know that any book that has a hero or heroine in it that is not human, falls under the hubris of 'paranormal' but that doesn't feel right. Nor does 'fantasy' romance (which is what I think fairies and pixies are). Because while she's a pixie, this book won't have that dreamy fantasy quality. So me, and my heroine, are stuck somewhere in between.

Speaking of my heroine, Randa. She was supposed to be a cynical, sarcastic pixie but she's turning out a lot different than I expected already and I'm only 1,000 words into it. Even my plot is changing, which is good. However, the point of this rant is worldbuilding. I'm terrible at it. I suck. I'm a contemporary kind of gal but this stupid pixie won't leave me alone so now I'm faced with the challenge of bringing a pixie into modern times, making her contemporary, and keeping her pixie sparkle. That's some hard shit.

Plus, it doesn't help that there is like next to nothing about pixies. Fairies, yes. You can find information on them by the bucket but not so with pixies. All I know is that they like to be in a garden, they're mischievious, and they lure people to their deaths with pixie lights. Not much to go on which means that I am going to have to create a world for them with Tuatha de Dannan among the other Sidhe. Which means more work for me. Which mean plotting or at least an outline which offends my pantster sensibilities. All of which add up to more work for me which pisses me off because I'm basically a lazy shit. I'm a Last-Minute Luann. A procrastinator. This book is going to force me into being something I'm not.

Organized.

So, any paranormal writers out there have any advice for me? How do you do quality worldbuilding? Teach me. I'm a sponge.

Until next time...

TGIF - Maksim Chmerkovskiy

2009-03-13T08:08:00.013-06:00

That Guy Is Fine:
Maksim Chmerkovskiy from Dancing With the Stars

Birth Place: Ukraine
Date of Birth / Zodiac Sign: 01/17/1980, Capricorn
Profession: Professional dancer, choreographer

Maksim has been described as the “bad boy of the ballroom dance floor.” But he's currently engaged to one of his Dancing With the Stars co-stars. Darn, I couldn't find a picture of her. Too bad.

Viola's Release Dates!

2009-03-11T12:29:00.007-06:00

It's been an exciting week for me. I received my release dates for both of my upcoming novels.

Angel Vindicated will be released as an ebook from Cerridwen Press, www.cerrid we np ress.com, on 5/14/2009.

And....

Bewitching You's digital (ebook) release and the tentative print release is 10/30/2009. Just in time to warm you up for Halloween.

Hope you enjoy!!

Viola

www.violaestrella.com

Unrealistic Expectations

2009-03-08T19:24:00.003-06:00

How Many of You Do It Too?

We are already well into March and I can hardly believe tomorrow is the 9th and my youngest will turn 13 (Chance and Amber are oficially teenagers now) Ugh!

I hardly know where the time has flown. As I was posting my Sunday's Sinful Delight, I reviewed the goals I listed out for myself to complete during the month of March. Anyone reading the list might feel as though the goals I have set for myself are entirely doable while others might think I am nuts. I am begining to think I fall into the 'nuts' category.

Everyday, everyweek and every month I set up tasks for myself to complete. In all honesty I have to admit I fall short every time. In some regards I feel good about setting the higher standards. In the end, I feel as though it makes me work harder and because of it, I wind up completeing more in the end.

The flip side of that is when I fall short and I put an undue amount of stress on myself because I feel as though I have failed in some way.

So, I am asking all of you whether or not the expectations you place on yourself are realistic, or unrealistic.

Regardless of those demands you place on yourself, do they help you do more and get more accomplished? Or, do they make you feel as though you have personally failed and let yourself down?

I hope everyone had a wonderful weekend,
Tricia

TGIF (That Guy Is Fine)

2009-03-05T20:18:00.005-07:00

Chris Meloni is a Hollywood actor.
Born April 2, 1961

I loved him in OZ (HBO Series). Especially all the nude shower scenes. And I love, love , love him in Law and Order SVU.

Imagine these eyes staring at you in the bedroom. Yum :)

So Handsome.

He's gorgeous and refined.

Until Next Time

Tricia

CONTEST Is March Coming in like a Lion or a Lamb?

2009-03-04T08:32:00.000-07:00

I'm thrilled to be teaming up with several other talented erotic romance authors to sponsor this contest for a $50.00 online gift certificate to Vibrator Warehouse.

To enter this fun scavenger hunt, visit each of the following websites, find an image of either a lion or a lamb, then make a list of the websites and whether you found a lion or a lamb and email your answers to eroticcontest@hotmail.com. The contest runs from March 1st through March 31st. The winner will be drawn the first week of April.

KyAnn Waters – http://www.kyannwaters.com/
Ann Campbell - http://www.anncampbell.webs.com/
Helen Hardt - http://www.helensheroes.blogspot.com/
Janna Lee Hayes - http://www.jannaleehayes.com/
Sara York - http://sarayork.blogspot.com/
Liza James - http://www.lizajamesauthor.com/

(By entering this contest, you may be added to a participating author's newsletter list.)

Have fun, and be sure to check out all the steamy offerings from these great authors while you're browsing their sites!

Hot & Hairy Vs. Cold & Stiff

2009-03-02T04:00:00.002-07:00

The title got ya, eh? Bwahaha. You're mine now.

A few weeks ago, my fellow vixen, Helen, had us decide between Highlander and Cowboy. This week I thought I’d take it to the supernatural side.

I love that werewolves and shapeshifters are finally being seen in a less horrific light on the big and little screen. At last, we’re seeing just how appealing they can be compared to their mainly alpha counterparts, the vampires. Still, I don’t think they’ve gotten their fair shake. Not yet, anyway.

In the HBO show True Blood, based on a series by Charlaine Harris, Sam Merlotte is a mysterious shapeshifter who has a secret crush on the heroine, Sookie Stackhouse.

But he waits too long to tell her and she’s swept off her feet by the vampire, Bill, who’s trying hard to live normally amongst the humans.

Then there’s the vampire, Eric, who’s made it clear he’s also interested in Sookie. Anyone who’s read the series knows where this is heading. Yowza! Now I'm just wondering/hoping the TV series will follow the same path.

Who will our heroine choose in the end? Hot and hairy or cold and stiff? I’m waiting patiently for the next book. Ms. Harris??

In the Twilight series by Stephenie Meyer, the young heroine is met with the same problem. Who to choose?

She’s instantly attracted to the vampire, Edward Cullen, for obvious reasons.

But Jacob the werewolf soon gives Edward a run for his money. (Don’t look too long at these pictures, ladies. He’s underage. I feel guilty just posting them.)

Hot and hairy, Hugh Jackman, isn’t really a shapeshifter in his role as Wolverine, and, I admit, he’s not even a wolf. Wolverines are part of the weasel family. But, darn it, how could I resist?

I really wish I could add more to the Hot and Hairy collection. When will the big hairy guy win the girl and save the day? I could easily add a gazillion to the Cold and Stiff, as most of you know. How can we resist their lure? I love a good romance between an immortal blood-sucker and his inevitable prey, I mean soul mate. But if any of you know of another movie/book/TV series where the werewolf/shapeshifter is given his due, let me know! I'm on it.

Who's your favorite? Hot and hairy or cold and stiff? I've always enjoyed reading about both. It's a tough choice. Heck, do we even have to decide?

Viola
www.violaestrella.com

TGIF

2009-02-27T17:30:00.003-07:00

So there is a running joke with the Vixens that I don't like blonde men (and I don't) but lately a lot of Helen's hunks have been blonde and I can't deny that they are uniquely appealing in their own way. In fact, some are sexy as hell. This causes me untold ridicule. Although, I'm still not feeling Helen's French porn star.

With that in mind, I present to you my fine guy...Bradley Cooper. Yes, he is blonde but that won't stop me from throwing him down on the ground and riding him until we're both nothing but dust.

SIGH

Until next time..

He can be in my bathtub any day...or night!

Naked would be better.

I just want to bite him!

So cute!

Those eyes get me every time.

COMING SOON!

2009-02-25T09:21:00.003-07:00

Current read: Love's Magic by Traci E. Hall

I'm thrilled to announce release dates for two of my upcoming works.

Passion in Paris will be available April 10, 2009 at http://www.wilderroses.com/.

The Outlaw's Angel, part of Lawmen and Outlaws, a western historical anthology, will be available June 5, 2009 at http://www.thewildrosepress.com/.

GIVING YOUR CHARACTERS A FACE

2009-02-22T13:59:00.004-07:00

Current read: Slave by Cheryl Brooks

Putting faces to characters is a lot of fun for authors. Sometimes, I have a face in mind when I create a character, but just as often, I don't. For example, when I created Dylan Johnson, the hero in Seduced in Seoul, I saw his face only in my head. It wasn't until months after the book was released that, with the help of my friend Kealie over at The Menagerie, I stumbled upon the perfect face for Dylan -- Peter Le.

In the case of Blaise Dartagnan from Passion in Paris, I had a face in mind from the beginning -- Emmanuel Delcour, a sexy Frenchman like my hero.

Bobby Morgan, the hero in my upcoming western novella, The Outlaw's Angel, has chestnut hair and a face much like Henri Castelli. But Bobby's eyes are light brown, rather than Henri's bluish gray.

How do you create the physical characteristics of your characters? Do you give them faces ahead of time? Or do you see them only in your mind? Does one of your characters resemble a certain celebrity? Do you change hair color, eye color? Share with us in a comment!

The next Episode

2009-02-21T17:44:00.001-07:00

Go on over to my blog to check out the next installment of my Valentine's Day blogvella. I can assure you that you won't be disappointed!

Vixen Monica

TGIF -- Raffaello Balzo

2009-02-20T08:31:00.004-07:00

Born March 18, 1975, Rafaello is an Italian actor and model. I really don't think I need to say anything else. These photos speak for themselves...

What's New Wednesday HOT NEW COVER ART

2009-02-18T08:29:00.003-07:00

Current read: The Queen's Fool by Philippa Gregory

The lovely and talented Angela Anderson designed this gorgeous cover for my upcoming Destination Pleasure Rosette, Passion in Paris. She's the same artist who designed the amazing cover for Seduced in Seoul.

Here's the blurb for Passion in Paris:

Attempting to overcome her fear of heights by visiting the top of the Eiffel Tower, Raine never expects to end up in the arms of a gorgeous Frenchman. But after fainting in the tower’s elevator, that’s where she awakens. Blaise is young, charming, and hot, so why, Raine wonders, is he attracted to her? And why does she have the strange feeling she’s seen him somewhere before?

Helen

SEDUCED IN SEOUL available at http://www.wilderroses.com/
"It kept me smiling on every page!" --The Romance Studio
BLOOD WOLF coming soon
PASSION IN PARIS coming soon
http://www.helenhardt.com/
http://www.helensheroes.blogspot.com/

What's Your Limit?

2009-02-17T18:40:00.004-07:00

Hello all you loyal readers out there in Bloggerland!

I know that you've been crying out for a new post from Monica and here I am. (Egotistical much, Monica?)

Anyhoo, this post is going to be a little different from my usual posts because it's more serious in tone and as the Vixens will tell you, I like my funny. However, something has been on my mind for a while and I thought that I would put it out there to the masses and see what you all think.

A couple weeks ago, I was reading a book. That in and of itself is not a surprise as I read 3-5 books per week but this particular book was different. In this book, something happened that shocked me so badly that I had to put the book down for a while. I did, eventually pick the book back up and continued to read and and liked it in the end. I won't tell you what shocked me because it doesn't matter but it got me to thinking.

What are my limits as a reader? A writer?

Why did I continue reading this book even though I would have said in the past that it was abhorrent to me and stopped reading?

Personally, I believe that it has to do with two things. The extent to which a reader is willing to accept a plot point and the skill with which the author creates his/her characters. This author did that. Even though the hero committed a horrid act, I understood him and why he had to do it. I ended caring about hm despite his actions. I rooted for him in the end.

Was I crazy? (Well I am but that's beside the point.) Or was I swept away?

So I pose the question to you, blog readers.

What is your limit? Have you ever reached it? Have you thought that you've had a firm limit and an author pushed you past it?

For me, I hate, ABSOLUTELY ABHOR, books in which the heroine has been forced into marriage in a contemporary novel (historicals have a different mindset for me). They are automatic wallbangers and I have yet to read an author who has been able to change that opinion.

What about you? Where do you draw the line in books? Romances and otherwise.

OH, and because I am Monica I am officially instituting a new feature The 'Vixen Award for Romantic Excellence.' (I just made this up.)

What's this you may ask? This is an award that we can give a book or author that has surprised us in some way that we feel needs acknowledgment.

Now, without further ado...

The VIXEN AWARD for BEST USE OF A CUCUMBER IN A ROMANCE NOVEL goes to...

LACEY ALEXANDER for 'THE BIKINI DIARIES'

Seriously, read it.

And the winner is...

2009-02-14T16:50:00.004-07:00

I know you've all been on pins and needles so I won't try anything too fancy.

The winner of the 'New Year, New Line' contest is...

ANN CAMBELL for Entry #1

"Maggie lost count of how many times she peeked at her sexy neighbor, Robert, getting naked through her bedroom window late at night."

Congratulations Ann! Please contact the Vixens at coloroadovixens at gmail dot com with your contact information and we'll have get your prize out to you ASAP.

Thank you to all of the people who entered the contest and voted. Please continue to visit us. We enjoy every one of you. Also, stayed tuned for new contests throughout the year.

Later gators,

Vixen Monica

TGIF (That Guy is Fine) - Wentworth Miller

2009-02-12T19:21:00.014-07:00

This one goes out to all the ladies who watched Prison Break for the view, not the storyline.

Sorry your show was canceled. What a shame.

Wentworth Miller

Age: 34

Blogvella?

2009-02-11T17:55:00.002-07:00

What do you think of the title? I'm thinking of coining the term for the novellas (short stories really) that I plan on posting to my blog. The only other word that I could think of was novlog. BLECH!

Anyhoo, stop by and visit me at Monica Kaye's Harmless Smut to check out my newest story. Everyone that makes a comment will be automatically entered to win a fabulous prize.

Except the Vixens.

I can't be accused of favoritism.

What's New Wednesday - Viola

2009-02-11T12:18:00.004-07:00

It's What's New Wednesday. (If you're looking for the New Year, New Line Entries, look down :-)) And I'm so excited to officially show off my new cover for Angel Vindicated, coming soon to Cerridwen Press.

A big, huge thanks to the cover artist, Dar Albert!

Isn't it purdy?

New Year, New Line Contest Entries

2009-02-10T10:26:00.001-07:00

The Vixens need your help! We received some fantastic entries for our New Year, New Line contest, and here are the top three. All are worthy of a prize, but only one can win. Please help by telling us which one is your favorite. We have them listed in order of arrival. Simply pick your favorite number and post it in our comment section.

Entry #1:

“Maggie lost count of how many times she peeked at her sexy neighbor, Robert, getting naked through her bedroom window late at night.”

Entry # 2:

"In the beginning, there was enough melted chocolate to cover his entire body."

Entry # 3:

“It was the best wake-up call ever, his hands on her breasts, his tongue between her thighs.”

Thanks for your help! The winner will be announced on Valentine’s Day.

European Travels

2009-02-09T09:12:00.021-07:00

January has already come and gone and we are well into February. It seems so hard to believe I have been back from my European tour for nearly six weeks.

While away, the kids and I visited Scotland for Christmas, Paris for the New Years and London before returning home. With all three cameras constantly in use, we took approximately 2,500 hundred pictures. Before I left, I promised to share our experiences with all of you.

Of all the places we visited and all the things we saw, Scotland was by far my favorite. Here are some of my favorite photos from the area.

By the end of the week you can visit my, my space page to see more of the moments we captured.

Amber at Uriqhart Castle

Inverness

Edinburgh

Inverness

Inverness Castle

Cemetery in Inverness

Uriqhart Castle Ruins Near Loch Ness

Uriqhart Castle Ruins

Loch Ness

Inverness

Uriqhart Castle Ruins

Uriqhart Castle and Surrounding Country Side

Locn Ness

Chance At Uriqhart Castle

Uriqhart Castle

Loch Ness

Next up is Paris.

Until next time,

Tricia

TGIF (That Guy Is Fine)

2009-02-06T08:43:00.010-07:00

Our Friday Hottie is here.

John Cena is a WWE Champion. In addition to his wrestling career he raps and acts in Hollywood films.

So Handsome just sitting in the Vixens' back yard.

Sitting on the Vixens' Couch.

The way he looked before the Vixens covered him in hot fudge and whipped cream. Yummie!!

Would you look at that. Um... Um...

Can he cuddle me?

Can you guess what the Vixens would like to do to this man?

TTYAS

Tricia

New Release! New Hunk!

2009-02-04T08:55:00.002-07:00

Current read: Hungarian Masquerade by Lara Dien

Hey all, I have a new rose petal posted at The Wilder Roses! It's a companion story to Seduced in Seoul, and has a Valentine's Day theme. This is a hot one (double rose). You can find it here. And it's FREE.

Need some eye candy for your hump-day? Head on over to my blog, Helen's Heroes. My good friend Lizzie T. Leaf just launched a new Cougar series over at Aspen Mountain Press, and asked me to consider writing a story for the line. So lately I've had cougars and cubs on the brain ;). I'm showcasing "Hunks under Thirty" during February. So if you're in the mood for some drool-worthy cubs, be sure to take a look!

Other news -- Vi has an amazing new cover for her upcoming Cerridwen release, Angel Vindicated. But I'll let her share that ;).

Enjoy your Wednesday!

Writer Resources on the Web

2009-02-02T07:00:00.005-07:00

This one goes out to my fellow writers. I've compiled a list of helpful websites over the years. Some I use frequently, some on special occasions, some I've grown out of, and some are just for fun. In any case, I thought I'd share them with our fabulous blog readers. Hope you enjoy.

Find an agent or editor:

Join an organization:

http://www.readersread.com/organizations.htm

Build Your Characters:

Find a name for your character:

Give him/her a face:

Find them a home:

http://maps.live.com/
http://earth.google.com/
http://www.realtor.com/
Cool world-building worksheet
http://www.thescriptorium.net/world1.html
Calculate time differences
http://www.timeanddate.com/

Give them an accent:

Speech accent archive
http://accent.gmu.edu/

Do they speak a foreign language? (Use with caution)

What’s their personality?

Miscellaneous resources:

Common errors in English
http://www.wsu.edu/~brians/errors/errors.html
Book trailer tutorial
http://www.textyladies.com/?p=96
MySpace beginner guide
http://www.freecodesource.com/index.php?page=myspace/beginner
Writer’s Digest 101 Best Sites for 2008
http://www.writersdigest.com/101BestSites/?m_nYear=2008&m_sCategory=all
Romantic Times Magazine
http://www.romantictimes.com/
Helpful writing articles - www.teresciaharvey.com/hea/articles.html

If I missed any, feel free to add your own.

Happy writing!

Viola

http://www.violaestrella.com/
Bewitching You - Coming soon to the Wild Rose Press
Angel Vindicated - Coming soon to Cerridwen Press

I can't help myself!

2009-01-30T17:45:00.005-07:00

Yes, he's a nasty smoker but he's so fucking HOTTTT!!!

Hunk!

2009-01-30T17:28:00.006-07:00

So the Vixens have decided that we needed to add a bit more of man meat to our blog so we came up with the idea of TGIF- That Guy Is Fine. We thought it would be a goood way to ease you into your weekend.

And lucky me, I get to do the inaugural hottie.

I don't think that any of the Vixens will be surprised at my choice. Seriously, if they threw us a ring together and told us we needed to fight to the death for him, there would be dead bitch body parts strewn about like confetti. Of course, I'd be the victor. I can take them!

So here we go...

BUT WAIT!!!

Before the eye candy, I just wanted to send out another reminder about our 'New Year, New Line' Contest. Details in our sidebar. ENTER!

Now, without further ado... (drumroll)

GERARD BUTLER

Tricia's Sinful Sundays and What Not

2009-01-28T21:15:00.004-07:00

My new blog is now up and running.

Stop by on Sunday for Sinful Delights (yes, it involves lewd men). Find out what I am reading or what is being played on my IPOD.

Have some fun and end the long dispute between my sister Kathy and myself. Take the poll and tell us whether Ashes in the Wind or The Wolf and the Dove is the better book written by NYT bestseller Kathleen E. Woodiwiss.

I voted for The wolf and the Dove. It is one of my keepers.

I'll see you all soon,
Tricia

New Review for SEDUCED IN SEOUL

2009-01-28T12:10:00.004-07:00

Current read: Rachel and the Hired Gun by Elaine Levine

Hey everyone! It's What's New Wednesday, where any and all Vixens are free to post what's new in their world. This review isn't new, but it's new to me ;). It's from October 08, but I just saw it for the first time today. I'd like to thank Patrice F. at Joyfully Reviewed for the fantastic commentary about Seduced in Seoul. You made my day!

Allison Sanchez takes a trip to Seoul, Korea to visit her big brother Michael. She’s picked up at Incheon International by a Korean hunk who doesn’t speak English. Allison is usually shy, so she takes advantage of the situation by flirting with him—a lot.

When they arrive at her brother’s apartment, she really gets into the swing of things. Her new “friend” is just as attracted to her, even though he doesn’t understand a word she’s saying. If he could understand her, she wouldn’t have the nerve to be so bold and bad. Allison quickly learns that there’s more pleasurable ways for two people to communicate: body language.

Seduced in Seoul is all about meeting that sexy, mysterious stranger in an exotic locale and having your wicked way. I’m sure that a lot of people have had this fantasy at least once. If not, then there are plenty of films about such encounters. The naughty language and sizzling bedroom scenes are sheer afternoon delight. There’s even a nice little twist added into the plot for a fun surprise.

Ms. Hardt brings her own special touch to this series, and the concept behind it really works. So if you’re looking for something quick, fun and steamy, yet totally erotic, then you should definitely take a peek at this scorcher.

Destination Pleasure
The Wild Rose Press
Contemporary, I/R
Reviewed by Patrice F.

HIGHLANDERS OR COWBOYS -- WHO'S HOTTER?

2009-01-25T18:50:00.006-07:00

Current read: The Surgeon's Secret Baby Wish by Laura Iding

It's Monday at the Vixens' blog, and today I have two wonderful things on my mind: Sexy Highlanders and Hot Cowboys.

"I'm burnin' for ye, lass."

"You've got me tied in knots, darlin'."

Ah...they both have so much merit.

Why do I have them on the brain, you may ask? This weekend, I had the pleasure of seeing my handsome and sexy husband dressed in full Highland regalia, and in Cowboy denims, hat, and boots. And damned if I can decide how he looks better.

My husband's a Scotsman by genealogy, and a native Coloradoan by birth. Saturday night we attended a Robert Burns dinner, and he rented a formal kilt for the occasion. Yes, I took pictures, but if I posted them here, I might find myself a divorcee in the next few days, LOL. Suffice it to say he looked smashing. Boy, does he have great legs. And by the way? It's true what they say about what men wear under their kilts. It was fairly brisk here Saturday night.

Sunday we attended the National Western Stockshow and Rodeo here in Denver, which is the setting for my award-winning contemporary western romance, Ivy League Cowboy. I love the stockshow. I love cowboys. And though we writers tend to romanticize them, let me tell you, real honest-to-goodness cowboys are tougher than nails. They are true athletes. It's amazing what they do.

But I digress. My wonderful hubby wore his cowboy hat and boots. Again, he looked delicious. So I find myself in a quandary. Who is sexier? The Highlander or the Cowboy?

You tell me ;).

I've been tagged and so have you

2009-01-16T10:49:00.008-07:00

I've been tagged by my friend Viola Estrella and it is my turn to tag you.

Rules are simple; Link to the person who has tagged you. Write down six things that make you happy. Post the rules, tag six others and let them know you did it. Then tell the person when your entry is complete.

Six things that make me happy:

1. Watching my kids laugh

2. Watching the sun rise and set

3. Watching the waves crash upon the shore

4. Writing to see what path my characters follow/ Reading a good book

5. Spending time with friends

6. Holding the hand of a loved one

You've been tagged

Deb Stover

Elaine Levine

Vi's already tagged my other friends so I will spare them the repeat.

I've been tagged

2009-01-16T09:49:00.005-07:00

I've been tagged by Paty Jager. I'm not the best at keeping these going, but since I only have to come up with six simple things, I thought I'd give it a shot. And if you read all the way through, I'll have a surprise for you at the end.

No peeking!

The Rules:Link to the person who tagged you; write down six things that make you happy; post the rules; tag six others and let them know you’ve done it; tell the person who tagged you when your entry is up.

Six Things That Make Me Happy:

1) Seeing my kiddos smile and laugh
2) Hanging with my hubby

3) Spending time with friends

4) Writing, writing, and more writing

5) Reading a great book

6) Diet Coke

See, I’m not that hard to please. :-)

Okay, I'm tagging:

Monica Kaye

Tricia Leigh

Helen Hardt (You've already been tagged but *shrug* I'm tagging you, too.)

Tiffany James

Christina Phillips

Laura Stephens

And since you've been so patient...Here's your treat.

Actor Cheyenne Jackson

Viola

www.violaestrella.com

THE OUTLAW'S ANGEL -- Coming Soon!

2009-01-15T16:24:00.004-07:00

I'm thrilled to announce that my novella, The Outlaw's Angel, will be part of Lawmen and Outlaws, an American western historical anthology, coming to The Wild Rose Press in June 2009!

The last thing bounty hunter Bobby Morgan expects after a stay in a small Dakota town is to wake up in a dirty jail cell accused of a crime he didn't commit. When a preacher's beautiful daughter provides a means for escape, he takes it. On the run with his feisty hostage, Bobby swears to her he means her no harm.

Naomi Blackburn wants nothing more than to go home to her ma and pa. But her handsome outlaw captor ignites a passion in her that's both frightening and exciting. Can two decidedly different souls come together? Or will misfortunes and Bobby's own doubts keep them apart?

Walmart Shoppers

2009-01-13T12:44:00.002-07:00

I am finally back from my trip abroad and although I have promised to share memories and pictures with you upon my return, I just had to share this with all of you first.
A few days prior to my trip I was doing some last minute christmas shopping at Walmart. The store was packed with eager buyers and I did something I have never done before in my entire life. I fainted.
For several days I had been having dizzy spells on and off. To busy to worry about them, I ignored them. Bad idea...
While standing in line and waitng to be helped I started to feel dizzy. I knew that all I had to do was wait a few minutes and the moment would pass. Nothing to worry about. Right? Wrong!!!
Rather than the feeling going away it steadily grew worse. Dreading the worst, I asked a near by employee if there was a chair available for me to sit down in.
To late. The moment for any remaining dignity had passed and I was embarassed beyond redemption. I woke up to find myself sprawled on top of the muddy floor with my head in some strangers hands. This kind stranger quickly assured me she was able to catch my head before it hit the floor.
Realizing what had happened I immediately looked to see how many people had seen my fall. Hundreds... All of them dying to get a look at the woman lying on the ground. My next realization was that my $500.00 Coach purse was also on the dirty ground. For anyone who knows me well, knows I happen to be one of those superstitous people. Your purse should never be placed on the floor. It only brings bad luck. Reaching out, I quickly grabbed it. After all, how much worse could it get?
The employee assured me she had done her best to catch me and asked me to remain on the snow, mud covered floor until a chair and management arrived. The confusion had passed, all I wanted to do was grab my coat and crawl out of the store.
Still feeling slighty light headed, I decided I had better follow her advice rather than fall on my ass for a second time. The chair and mangement arrived. I was kindly given a glass of water as I was introduced to three different members of mangement.
The usual questions. Do you need an ambulance? Is there someone we can call for you? At this point all I wanted to do was leave but the manager kindly insisted I fill out an incident report despite my assurances I would not be holding Walmart accountable for the occurence. It was mortifying to sit in that chair and answer all thier questions while the unattended and bored shoppers had nothing better to do other than stare at the woman who had fallen to floor. To this day I wonder if it was a graceful slump to the floor or an undignified fall that left me sprawled on the floor.
The incident report was finally complete and I could leave. Thank God!
My humiliation did not end there however, they insisted on giving me a personal escort from thier store. I am convinced the remaining shoppers that had no idea as to what had happened assumed I had done something horrible like shop lifting.
Due to my humiliation I have not been back to that particular store since that fateful day. I doubt I ever will. I'm only thankful there are so many to choose from in my area.
In all fairness I have to give Walmart an A+ for their concern and readiness to help out.

Forever mortified,
Tricia

Just in case you don't have a Thesaurus handy...

2009-01-04T15:27:00.002-07:00

http://www.starma.com:80/penis/penis.html

New contract - Angel Vindicated

2009-01-01T16:21:00.004-07:00

I haven't had a chance to announce it here on the Vixen blog, but my urban fantasy novel, ANGEL VINDICATED, has been contracted by Cerridwen Press. Yay! More news to come.

Blurb:

Abigail Angel may not enjoy being a law enforcement Angel for Demon Control, a branch of Angels, Inc, but she excels at it. Deporting unruly demons back to Hell is her specialty. Her personal life, on the other hand, could use a little work. The virtuous and pristine genes seem to be missing in this particular Angel, getting Abigail in trouble more than she likes to admit. To date, her biggest vice has been Simeon Keller, a half demon, who effortlessly managed to seduce Abigail five years ago. She’s avoided him ever since but she still can’t seem to knock the bad reputation the blunder has branded on her.

Now, the threat of a demon rebellion has Angels, Inc overwhelmed, and Abigail must trust Simeon to help her find and deport the fiends who are attempting to destroy earth’s only salvation. Staying out of Simeon’s bed is the least of her worries as she fights for her life and the lives of all Angels and humans everywhere.

Happy New Year!

Viola

www.violaestrella.com

New Year's Resolution?

2008-12-28T08:49:00.012-07:00

2009 is a couple days away and it’s time to start thinking about goals for the New Year. Right? I know what you’re thinking — why bother? Why make any resolutions because I never seem to accomplish them, let alone keep them up?

Okay. I admit I’ve used that rationalization many times, but only because if it takes a new year to make a goal, then the goal probably isn’t that important. Don’t ya think? Or am I being too cynical?

Don't get me wrong; I’m not saying that goals aren’t important. Just the opposite, in fact. I think goals are necessary. You must have goals in order to live a healthy, happy life. I can’t express how important it is to always, always (and not just at the beginning of a year) challenge yourself to achieve the next level, whether it's regarding your career, health, relationships, or all around happiness/sanity. And if you don’t begin the steps it takes to complete this goal, if you don’t set it in motion, how can you ever know how much you can accomplish?

One of my favorite quotes says it perfectly. I’ve read it many times, whenever I got a rejection letter, or whenever my inner voice questioned my ability to become a published author. It helped me get past the doubt and to keep moving, striving for that one goal I wanted…no, needed to attain.

So if you’re making your list of resolutions or you’re just making the next goal in a long line of goals, wondering if it’s worth it this time, I thought I’d share that quote that I find so inspirational:

“Until one is committed, there is hesitancy, the chance to draw back, always ineffectiveness. Concerning all acts of initiative (and creation), there is one elementary truth the ignorance of which kills countless ideas and splendid plans: that the moment one definitely commits oneself, the providence moves too. A whole stream of events issues from the decision, raising in one's favor all manner of unforeseen incidents, meetings and material assistance, which no man could have dreamt would have come his way. I learned a deep respect for one of Goethe's couplets:

Whatever you can do or dream you can, begin it.
Boldness has genius, power and magic in it!”

~W.H. Murray (Sidenote: I’d once read that this complete quote was by Goethe, but I think it’s been corrected that it was written by Mr. Murray.)

Happy New Year!!

Viola

BEWITCHING YOU – coming soon
www.violaestrella.com
www.myspace.com/violaestrella

Oh, and for your visual inspiration:

Francesco Cura:

And Henri Castelli:

NEED A LAST BIT OF HOLIDAY CHEER?

2008-12-27T08:02:00.002-07:00

Can I tell you?

2008-12-23T23:40:00.002-07:00

I have been working on those fucking pictures for at least an hour! I might not do that shit again.

LOL

Happy Merry ChrismaKwanzaKah

2008-12-23T22:31:00.014-07:00

Hello!

Long time no write. These are literally the first words that I've written in three weeks. I have decided to take the entire month of December off from writing and am concentrating on not concentrating. Writing is difficult anyway but when you add a full time job (whether in the workforce or in the domestic goddess business) it's absolutely murder. And I think I did not one but TWO NaNos so I'm beat! I'm going to take the next two weeks off from work (I work in the schools) and I'm going to chillax (whatever the fuck that made up word means.

Speaking of NaNo, I told my fellow Vixens that I would blog about NaNo and all I want to say to you in Bloggerville is that shit is hard! It's never easy to write 50,000 words but give it a time frame and fughedabouddit! I think it was so much harder this year than last because I wasn't really feeling my story and although I liked the characters, I don't know that I like them enough to go back and finish the story. It needs some major revisions to beef up the conflict (always my weak point) and I don't know that I want to do that. I might have to chalk this one up to the Lord of Crap Novels. I know he exists and the some of us sometimes worship at his alter. It's inevitable sometimes. Even La Nora has had to bow down to him a time or two.

So, on that happy note, I wish you all a Merry Christmas, Happy Hanukkah, and/or Happy Kwanzaa. Oh, I forgot...

HAPPY NEW YEAR!!!

Do you all still make New Year's Resolutions? I do. Besides the obvious weight loss goal, my resolution this year is to obtain an agent and/or get published. I know, I know. I don't have much control over either of these but I do have control over how much I pursue both of these. To that end, I plan on putting the pedal to the medal and in the spirit of what I hope to accomplish with my blogs, I will keep you all in informed of my progress. Wish me luck.

For my part, I plan on ringing in the New Year with the traditional meal in my house of Black-eye Peas, hamhocks, and Collard greens. It's said to bring luck into the New Year. Maybe this year, it'll work.

Oh, and taking my cue from Helen, I leave you all with my Hump Day Hunk, Rodrigo Santoro.

Rodrigo on the beach!

Rodrigo in my bed! (I wish!)

What are you thinking about hottie?

Gerard and Rodrigo...perfect menage. Just add Monica!

Shirtless? Delicious!

Spice Up Your Holiday Meals with Jamaican Jerk

2008-12-19T08:50:00.002-07:00

If you like spicy, delicious food, this is for you. During our stay in Jamaica, my dh and I met the extraordinary chef at Hedonism III. His name is Joseph, and oddly, he's not Jamaican, but boy, can he prepare Jamaican food! The following is his recipe for that Jamaican staple, Jerk. Caution, this is HOT! The hotter the better, as far as my husband and I are concerned. You can tone it down by using a milder chile pepper.

Jamaican Jerk Sauce

1/2 c. ground allspice
1/2 c.+ brown sugar
6-8 garlic cloves
4-6 Scotch Bonnet peppers*
1 T. ground thyme or 2 T. thyme leaves
2 bunches green onions
1 t. cinnamon
1/2 t. nutmeg
salt and pepper to taste
2 T. soy sauce to moisten

*Scotch Bonnet is a relation of the Habanero. If you can't find them, substitute the hottest peppers you can find, or use cayenne.

Put all ingredients into a food processor and blend until smooth. Keep the sauce refrigerated and it will keep forever. You can increase the hot peppers and garlic.

Rub chicken, pork, or beef with the seasoning. If using pork shoulder, score the fat and rub in. With chicken, be sure to rub under skin and in cavities. You can use fish, but use a firm fleshed fish like grouper.

Marinate overnight. Grill over a low fire until done. Meat will be smoked "pinkish" when done, and the skin will be nice and dark. Chop meat into pieces, and serve traditionally with hard-dough bread and Jamaican Red Stripe Beer.

A Holiday Wish for the Vixens!

2008-12-16T08:00:00.000-07:00

VIXEN VIOLA AT HELEN'S HEROES

2008-12-15T08:46:00.001-07:00

Good Monday morning! Please join Viola and me at my blog, www.helensheroes.blogspot.com, where she talks about her luscious hero, Adam, in Finding Fate. We'd love to see you there!

Overdue introduction

2008-12-14T12:29:00.002-07:00

Due to extenuating circumstances, this is my first official contribution to the Vixens blog. I believe it is time I introduced myself to the group.

When I was about seven or eight I was a devoted fan of Scooby Doo and the gang. Who wasn’t? Surprisingly enough that silly cartoon inspired me to write. Can anyone fathom the basis for my first novel? Yep, you probably guessed it. I wrote a story about a group of kids in a haunted mansion. Unlike the cartoon series, my story was filled with a real live ghost. Young as I was, I quickly tired of the constant writing, erasing and rewriting. I decided the whole process was more work than I cared to expend.

My passion for writing didn’t reemerge until I was in my teens. I wrote on a daily basis until I graduated from high school. I never gave the career of writing a single thought. It was just something I did for fun. College and motherhood soon followed and I went several years without ever picking up a pen. The desire to create characters and weave tales never subsided though. I went to bed every night and imagined worlds with people who were not real and each night I would add a little bit more to their tale.

A few years ago a constant yearning to write followed my every thought. I was working full time with two young children and found I did not have the time to soothe my inner desire. Fate intervened. My position at work was eliminated. It was then and there I seriously considered a career change. I turned my attentions over to my love of writing. Thanks to the computer and the infamous backspace button. I have two completed manuscripts and I am well on my way to completing a third.

Christmas is only 11 days away and I can hardly believe I leave for Europe in just 6 days. I promise to tell you all about it and post pictures when I return.

Just in case you are wondering, I still have all my old writings from high school safely tucked away.
Merry Christmas and Happy New Year to all of you.
Tricia

Just what can I get for my $300 in fake chips?

2008-12-13T08:00:00.008-07:00

A fuck.

I'm not kidding.

At the Hedonism III resort in Jamaica, where my wonderful dh and I spent last week, a German group called EroLuna hosted an Erotic Casino Night. Semi-formal dress was required, and guests were greeted at the door with $200 in chips. If you were able to turn those 200 into 300 at the Blackjack or Roulette tables -- bada bing! You could get laid.

Just pick the photo of the person of your choice, and off you headed to a room. Or maybe you did it in front of everyone. Wouldn't surprise me.

Completely phantasmagoric.

My dh and I, being happily married, didn't participate, of course. But I'm certain some married couples did. Hey, whatever works to keep the passion alive. I don't judge.

The photo above is the prude (non-nude) beach. Pretty dead, huh? That's because most guests, my dh and I included, spent their time on the nude beach, where photography was strictly forbidden.

Below are the hanging beds on the prude beach. Again, notice the lack of action...

Not so on the nude beach. While walking to the sauna one evening, my dh and I passed the hanging beds on the nude beach. One was graced with a threesome indulging in some interesting oral action. And because I know you're wondering, I'll tell you -- two men and a woman. My voyeuristic husband wanted to stay and watch. Clearly, the triad had no issue, since they were doing it in public. But I put the kibosh on that. Sorry, sweetie!

On the nude beach, we witnessed a woman giving her husband a blow job, a man fingering his wife (again, I'm assuming these were married couples -- big assumption on my part, LOL), a woman licking her guy in the hot tub, and lots of hand jobs. Body piercings? We saw them all -- nipple, labia, foreskin. And one very brave circumcised man had the head of his penis pierced. Made all the men in our group shudder.

But my dh and I are very open minded, and we had a wonderful time. We can't wait to go back. The group we traveled with (three other couples with whom we ride Harleys) is already making plans to meet up with some of the folks we met at the resort. Above is our building. We were on the second floor and had a fantastic view of the ocean.

My dh and his pals did some scuba diving, though the waters on the north shore are pretty rough this time of year. We also hiked up Dunn's River Falls.

But we mostly hung out on the beach and read and relaxed. The perfect vacation. For more on the trip -- and my sex on the beach ;) -- head on over to my blog, http://www.helensheroes.blogspot.com/.

Next week I'll post the delicious recipe for Jerk Chicken that we got from Joseph, the talented chef at Hedo III. Yum!

Colorado Flavor

2008-11-24T09:23:00.016-07:00

Since the Vixens live in Colorado, I thought I might share some local pictures once in a while. I enjoy going to sporting events with the fam. Last night, my hubby and I went to the Broncos game. Sadly, they didn't win. In fact, the most exciting part was when three fans ran into the field and were tackled by security. BUT the atmosphere was fun, and I got a couple photos:

Camera phone pic, sorry, but can you see the Bronco above the scoreboard? Hopefully, you won't see the score!! Here's another:

My favorite team is the Rockies. Here's a pic of Coors Field from this past summer:

The Coors Field experience is magical, and that's probably why our attendance breaks records every year. If you ever make it to Colorado during baseball season I highly recommend a game!

Hope you enjoyed a small taste of Colorado!

Viola

http://www.violaestrella.com/

NANO ROCKS!

2008-11-21T13:33:00.001-07:00

50,337 words, baby!

I LOVE YOUR BLOG

2008-11-20T09:26:00.005-07:00

Hey Vixens!

The lovely Christina Phillips gave my blog, Helen's Heroes, the I love your blog award, and with it the privilege of awarding it to seven other blogs. Of course this blog was among my seven! Check out http://www.helensheroes.blogspot.com/ for the full list.

Now, ladies, we get to award it to seven other blogs. So let's each pick two, and then collaborate on the seventh. Fun stuff!

4K more to go on Nano...

Our New Logo

2008-11-19T08:46:00.009-07:00

I think we have a winner. The Colorado Vixens blog is officially official with our new logo up above.

Helen has dibs on being the pink one, so I'm going to put my bid in for the blue vixen. Monica and Tricia? Want to thumb wrestle for her?

We'll share with our visitors, too. Which one would you like to be?

Viola

www.violaestrella.com

Warning! Revamping

2008-11-16T17:25:00.004-07:00

I'm in the middle of designing a logo for the Colorado Vixens, so bear (or is it bare? I never get that one right) with us while we're under construction. You may see things appear and disappear.

I can just visualize the other vixens raising their eyebrows right now. Don't worry! I'll be careful! And it will be fabulous in the end. We're in the process of deciding on a blurb to go with the logo, so it might be a little while longer. Any suggestions?

Visit back soon to check it out!

Viola

www.violaestrella.com

NaNo Update

2008-11-13T21:25:00.001-07:00

My word count?

22,526

Yay! I'm happy and excited.

Plus, if you go over to my blog, you will find a special surprise.

Storm Brewing Ahead -- Keep Writing!

2008-11-12T15:34:00.003-07:00

This is important information, so I'm cross posting.

I'm staying on track. I did 3016 today for a cumulative total of 34, 070.

Thanks to my lovely friend Cari Quinn, who helped me with a brainstorming session, I have lots of new conflict to explore.

Still this has been a rough couple of days, which is completely normal, according to NaNo founder Chris Baty. After the excitement of week one, a storm rushes in, you realize you have no idea where your characters are headed, and you panic.

For me, it wasn't so much a plot issue; it was more of a conflict issue. Cari helped me sort some of it out. Still, it's not flowing quite as freely as it did last week. Chris's advice?

Don't get it right; get it written.

So keep writing, friends. You can always fix it later ;).

I've been posting hunks for inspiration over at Helen's Heroes, so here's one for you Vixens readers.

My NaNo Count

2008-11-08T12:38:00.001-07:00

I have to say that I am on awe of Helen for her 25K words. It's taking all I have to get through 1,667k words per day. I thought of 5k makes we want to cry. I have done it but never on a consistent basis. Her goal of 15k next week should be a snap.

My word count? 11,683. Right on track. No more no less.

You can read about my struggle on my blog.

And yes, my H/H did have sex. The first time they met. That must be a theme for me. They probably won't do anything for at least a couple chapters but who knows? I'm a pantster not a plotter. I can't tell you for sure. I can say that the sex scenes were easier to write so maybe I'm getting good at them.

Well, back to the grindstone.

25K Down!

2008-11-07T19:39:00.001-07:00

I'm pleased to say I made my first week goal of 25K! Now I've closed the document and am not opening it again until Monday.

NaNo rocks!

And I just heard from Monica that she's on p. 35 and her h/h are doing the nasty! You go, girl!

Mine started on p. 50, but got interrupted. They started again on p. 64 and finished.

Yes, we do write romance, and we write it HOT!

Here's some inspiration for all of you NaNo-ers out there. Monica, I just know you're going to like this one...

I hit 20K!

2008-11-06T17:32:00.000-07:00

One more day of 5K.

I think I can, I think I can...

Helen's wordcount for 11/4

2008-11-04T16:42:00.001-07:00

5086, for a cumulative total of 10,136.

Go NaNo!

The Romance Studio gives Seduced in Seoul FIVE HEARTS!

2008-11-04T09:57:00.000-07:00

Seduced In Seoul

Helen Hardt

Contemporary erotic romance

Available from The Wild Rose Press August 2008

It looks like Allison Sanchez’ two week vacation is going to start out well when she’s picked up at the airport by one of the hottest men she’s ever met. It’s just too bad they can’t communicate. When he takes her to her brother’s place one thing leads to another and they’re tangled in the sheets when her brother Mike walks in. Turns out the man who only talks with his body language is his partner Dylan Johnson, as American as she is.

Helen Hardt writes a fun story of fulfilling a fantasy made easier by what seems to be a language barrier. Dylan refuses to feel guilty or let her be too frustrated by the mix up that he let happen. Allison has way too much fun to stay too embarrassed for very long. It seems that her usual shy demeanor is just too hard to hold onto when she and Dylan get together!

There’s some great one sided conversations, hot eroticism and a lot of fun in this book. It kept me smiling on every page! I highly recommend this as a fun interlude when you need a light hearted romp through the pages of fiction in an exotic location.

Overall rating: 5 hearts

Sensuality rating: Explicit
Reviewer: Dee Dailey

November 3, 2008

Helen's Wordcount for 11/3

2008-11-03T20:37:00.000-07:00

5050!

Four more days of this and I'll make my first week goal of 25K.

How are you all doing? Please share!