Thursday, December 27, 2007

Surviving the Holidays


On my mom's side, I have a pretty big family - 6 aunts and uncles, 15 cousins (about half with kids) 3 brothers, 1 sister 2 nieces and a nephew. The best thing is that we're all really close - any one of us would drop everything for anyone else. Yes, there's a whole lot of crazy in there, but I consider myself really lucky, some people (like my husband) may beg to differ, but I love getting together with everyone. The holidays are never boring with the Green fam.

So far, we've had five out of six family parties and a good time was had by all. Trying to cram 41 people, 17 of whom are small children, inside a small ranch style house probably wasn't the brightest idea, but it was still fun. It would have been more cramped if the other 15 family members would have be able to come too.

Unfortunately, I wasn't able to give my niece her Cinderelly dresses. Lexi-Lou-Who got the stomach flu so we had to postpone that party until the 29th. If her mom says it's okay, I'll post pictures of the little princess herself. She'll also be getting a handmade Alice in Wonderland costume and Wendy from Peter Pan costume from my mom - it'll be a very diva-centric gathering.
I'm still finishing a few Christmas gifts, but luckily I'm not due to see those people for a while - well, except for one and she's being super patient. And I'm happy to say, her gift is turning out beautifully. All in all, Christmas has been lovely this year. I wouldn't trade any of it...except maybe Lexi's stomach flu.

Friday, December 21, 2007

Grrrr Argh

I've been without internet all day. Ridiculous, but I felt cut off from the entire world. Oh well, it's back and I'm grateful!

Tomorrow we have the first of our holiday celebrations - brunch at my aunt's with about fifty of my siblings, aunts, uncles, cousins and all of their kids. It's always utter chaos, but it's also a blast. I adore my crazy ass family. In the evening, we'll be off to my mom's where I'll be giving Lexie-Lou-Who her Cinderelly costumes and hanging with my sibs and my nieces and nephews and my boys. It should be a great time. Sunday, we'll head to my Dad's where there will be more holiday hoorah.

In writing news, I got FOUR fabulous reviews yesterday!

Noveltalk reviewed Solstice Seduction (already!) and said:

Bronwyn Green writes wonderfully sensual romance. Her vivid descriptions bring the reader into the story allowing them to experience everything firsthand. Her characters are wounded and each one has a valuable lesson to discover, and their flaws only make them more endearing. SOLSTICE SEDUCTION is a fabulous love story that shows that all things happen for a reason. I found this tale to be enchanting, and I await future offerings by Ms. Green.
http://www.noveltalk.com/reviewpage.asp?ID=353

Joyfully Reviewed reviewed Overlord's Vessel and said:

Ms. Green has created a magical world full of fantastic characters and rituals. I for one hope to see more of Maelgwn, and hope that it won’t be long before we see how things work out for Asher, who, I have to admit, was absolutely yummy. Overlord’s Vessel has found its way to my keeper shelf. I can’t wait for a return to this delightful world.
http://joyfullyreviewed.com/reviews/December07/OverlordsVessel.BG.html

Alternative Read reviewed I Put A Spell On You and said:

This was a wonderful light hearted magical romance. It is a wonder any of us manage to come out of high school intact. But when the dreams and fantasies that revolve around love and sex are finally realized as an adult it is truly a magical moment. I loved the characters and the spirit of the romance as well as the underlying magic abilities of Temperance. Great name as well. Good all around read.
http://tjbook-list.blogspot.com/2007/09/review-i-put-spell-on-you-torrid-tarot.html

And last but definitely not least, Night Owl reviewed Best Laid Plans and said:

Bronwyn weaves a stunning tale of mystery and suspense in Best Laid Plans. Each character is well rounded and this is one for the keeper shelf definitely.
http://www.nightowlromance.com/nightowlromance/reviews/Review.asp?ReviewId=1042

Also...the reviewer gave it a TOP PICK!!!!!!

Okay...back to the regularly scheduled holiday sewing. I hope everyone has a fabulous weekend!!!

Wednesday, December 19, 2007

Cinderelly, Cinderelly, night and day it's Cinderelly

So I've been sewing and beading like a mad fiend. The good news is the Cinderella dresses are both done. Unfortunately, I had to make them both withouut a pattern, so they're not perfect. Here's hoping my niece doesn't notice. I also didn't iron them as I'm morally opposed to the iron. I'm positive she won't notice that - she's four and wanders around in a state of rumpled grubbiness most of the time.


Here are the pictures of the finished dresses - please excuse the crummy camera phone pictures and the fact that my house looks like it's in danger of being shut down by the health department. I'd like to tell you that it's usually much neater...but I'd be lying.



Now I've just got to make the five pairs of jammy pants, three special surprises, two star babies, one slipper and a bracelet. I've really got to start earlier next year...


Do you want to win some fantastic holiday reading? If so, come celebrate the Twelve days of Romance with 12 authors from Ellora's Cave, Wild Rose Press, Total-E-Bound and Cerridwen Press. Each day beginning December 8th and running through December 19th one of the twelve authors will tell what their "True love gave to them" on either their blog or website.Collect all twelve answers and e-mail them to mailto:anny@annycook.com with 12 days of Romance in the subject line to win some great books.

Deadline for answers is December 21st at midnight EST.There will be three lucky winners. The prizes –1st prize--6 books 2nd prize--4 books 3rd prize--2 books. All books and prize winners will be drawn randomly.

Anny Cook Winter Hearts
Sandra Cox Boji Stones
Bronwyn Green Ronan’s Grail
Heather Hiestand Cards Never Lie
Barbara Huffert Deal of a Lifetime
Amarinda Jones Mad About Mirabelle
Kelly Kirch Time for Love
Cindy Spencer Pape Cowboy’s Christmas Bride
Brynn Paulin Fallen
Jacquéline Roth Access Denied
KZ Snow Mrs. Claws
Lacey Thorn Earth Moves

Monday, December 17, 2007

Atomic Wedgies, Anyone?

I was all excited this morning - the Christmas gift making is moving along nicely, Solstice Seduction releases today from TEB and my kids got up and ready for school with nary a whine. And then I tried to get to the car.

I slipped on the ice and fell down our back steps. Granted, there are only four, but I cleverly managed to hit each and every one with my butt and my head, I wrenched my knee and the huge bag of canned goods I was bringing to school for the food drive for the homeless landed on my thigh...the same one that's connected to my twisted knee. I have lovely crescent shaped bruises on my leg and a giant one on my butt. And because I'm silly enough to wear skirts all year round, I also got an atomic wedgie and snow in my underwear. Yes indeed, it's a banner morning for the Green household.


On a hopefully better note, I'd like to share the blurb and prologue of my new story.

Celtic Fire: Solstice Seduction

Banished from Heaven as punishment for his sins, Taliesin has walked among humans for thousands of years. He's damned sick of it. Death would be preferable to the cultural bankruptcy of the twenty-first century, but what's a cursed immortal to do? It's not like he can kill himself.

Dr. Emerson Matthews has no clue what to do with the enigmatic, gorgeous man who has landed in the psych ward at the hospital where she works. Well, she knows what she wants to do, but it's unethical and likely illegal. Especially since he seems to be out of his mind. Why else would he claim to be a fallen angel?


Hell bent on seduction, Taliesin tempts Emerson, luring her tightly guarded passion to the surface and introduces her to sensual delights she's never dreamed of. As she learns more about the mysterious man in her care, she begins to question her own sanity as his claims of Divine origin seem more plausible with each passing moment.

Prologue

Guns, razor blades, pills, ropes... The options for suicide were limitless. If one was human. Hell, even the vampires had sunlight and holy water.

Taliesin sighed and scrubbed his hand through his hair in frustration. In the beginning, his banishment from Heaven had seemed a lark. As a fallen angel, of course he’d missed his connection to the Divine. It was a throbbing ache that never truly abated, but over time it had dulled.

Humans had quickly filled the void—practically revered him as a god. For a while it had been enough. With his harp, he’d wandered the length and breadth of Britain, performing in the halls of great kings. Legends of his bardic skill still survived today. It was good to be remembered, he supposed. Of course, he had been the one to suggest writing everything down. It often seemed that the most wildly artistic among humankind needed the most guidance.

He’d been more than willing to guide while some of his fallen brethren preferred to thwart. Some had even hated the humans. They’d refused to have any contact with them or worse, sought to harm them. Taliesin merely looked at them as entertainment during his exile. He’d come to enjoy many of them, revelling in the creativity with which their Maker had gifted them.

He’d shared arcane secrets with Cerridwen, advised Arthur and Merlin and seduced Morgan Le Fay...or perhaps she’d been the seductress. It had been centuries ago. He’d imbibed with Byron and Shelley and served as inspiration for Austen. He’d watched Michelangelo, Rembrandt and Waterhouse create masterpieces. He’d listened as Mozart composed his Requiem Mass and while Lennon wrote Imagine. He’d been a sounding board for Tolkien and had read all of the drafts of all of Yeats’ work and Neruda’s as well.

Now the world was filled with talentless hacks. Faced with the Britney Spears and Paris Hiltons of the world, what was the Angel of Inspiration to do? Well, the Fallen Angel of Inspiration, anyway. Providing inspiration for the humans had been easier in his angelic form. Maybe that was part of the problem...perhaps if he still held his place in Heaven, he would never have had to be tortured with the feeble musical attempts of the New Kids on the Block. Another thought occurred to him. Perhaps the Divine Being had noticed that he’d been enjoying his banishment on earth and now saw to it that songs by those Simpson girls remained painfully lodged in his head. Maybe the real punishment had just begun. More than ever, he longed for the comforts of Heaven and reconnection with the Divine.

It wasn’t simply that he was disgusted and bored. If he was honest with himself, he’d admit that he was lonely. He never thought he’d grow attached to the humans, but he had. Well, some of them anyway. But their lives were over in the blink of an eye. The pain of losing them year after year had become worse with every death.

Shivering Taliesin buttoned the top button of his jacket. Chile with Neruda would be far warmer than this backwater town in Michigan. He’d come here to hear a young poet, but the coffee house had burned down, so instead he found himself walking along the length of a nearby railroad track half-wishing for an oncoming train. Would this exile never end?

Tilting his head back, he closed his eyes. I’m sorry, all right? I’m fucking sorry already. What the hell do I need to do to prove it?

A blinding flash of blue-white light seared his eyes.

“You might want to consider not cursing when you address our Lord.”

Taliesin stifled a sigh. “Hello Gabriel.”
The angel walked at his side. “Haven’t you tired of you banishment? Aren’t you ready to come home?”

Taliesin stopped and stared at his friend. “Did you not just hear me? Isn’t that why you’re here?”

Gabriel smiled patiently. “Not exactly.” Holding up his hand, he immobilised Taliesin as the railroad tracks began to rumble. “This is your last chance to figure it out, my friend.”

“Figure what out?”

The angel shook his head, his eyes sad. Gabriel waved his hand toward Taliesin and he found himself standing in the middle of the vibrating tracks.

“Funny.” He fought against the supernatural hold. “Release me, Gabriel.”

“I cannot. If you are ever to regain your place within the Kingdom, you must learn what He sent you here to learn.”

Rage flooded Taliesin’s veins. “This isn’t a fucking fieldtrip. He banished me.”

The whistle of a not-so-distant train sounded, and the ground beneath his feet shuddered. He attempted to use his few remaining angelic powers to break Gabriel’s hold, but the angel had done something to nullify them. Bastard.

“Release me!” he demanded again.

Gabriel merely held his gaze. “Heed what you’re here to learn.”

“Yes, do be cryptic. It’s always so helpful.”

As the engine drew closer, the blinding headlight pulled his focus from the angel. The painful, metallic squeal of brakes split the quiet night drowning out his thundering heart. The engineer had obviously seen him, but there was no way he’d be able to stop in time. Taliesin sighed. He might be immortal, but immortality didn’t mean getting hit by a train wouldn’t hurt. Someday, Gabriel would pay for this.

Do you want to win some fantastic holiday reading? If so, come celebrate the Twelve days of Romance with 12 authors from Ellora's Cave, Wild Rose Press, Total-E-Bound and Cerridwen Press. Each day beginning December 8th and running through December 19th one of the twelve authors will tell what their "True love gave to them" on either their blog or website.Collect all twelve answers and e-mail them to mailto:anny@annycook.com with 12 days of Romance in the subject line to win some great books.

Deadline for answers is December 21st at midnight EST.There will be three lucky winners. The prizes –1st prize--6 books 2nd prize--4 books 3rd prize--2 books. All books and prize winners will be drawn randomly.
Anny Cook Winter Hearts
Sandra Cox Boji Stones
Bronwyn Green Ronan’s Grail
Heather Hiestand Cards Never Lie
Barbara Huffert Deal of a Lifetime
Amarinda Jones Mad About Mirabelle
Kelly Kirch Time for Love
Cindy Spencer Pape Cowboy’s Christmas Bride
Brynn Paulin Fallen
Jacquéline Roth Access Denied
KZ Snow Mrs. Claws
Lacey Thorn Earth Moves

Sunday, December 16, 2007

Busy, busy, busy


Now that I've caught up on deadlines, chaperoned field trips, attended concerts and played nursemaid to a sick hubby, I've started making Christmas gifts.

Today, I made five pillows, a necklace, a bracelet and a pair of earrings. Over the next few days I'll be making five pairs of jammy pants, two Cinderella costumes, three bracelets, two star babies, a pair of slippers and a big fat secret (it's a secret because it's for someone who regularly reads my blog).


Speaking of blogs...and secrets... I have one I'm about to reveal.


On the ninth day of Christmas, my true love gave to me... Nine Naughty Knights.

So if you want to win some fantastic holiday reading, come celebrate the Twelve days of Romance with 12 authors from Ellora's Cave, Wild Rose Press, Total-E-Bound and Cerridwen Press. Each day beginning December 8th and running through December 19th one of the twelve authors will tell what their "True love gave to them" on either their blog or website.Collect all twelve answers and e-mail them to mailto:anny@annycook.com with 12 days of Romance in the subject line to win some great books.

Deadline for answers is December 21st at midnight EST.There will be three lucky winners. The prizes –1st prize--6 books 2nd prize--4 books 3rd prize--2 books. All books and prize winners will be drawn randomly.

Anny Cook Winter Hearts
Sandra Cox Boji Stones
Bronwyn Green Ronan’s Grail
Heather Hiestand Cards Never Lie
Barbara Huffert Deal of a Lifetime
Amarinda Jones Mad About Mirabelle
Kelly Kirch Time for Love
Cindy Spencer Pape Cowboy’s Christmas Bride
Brynn Paulin Fallen
Jacquéline Roth Access Denied
KZ Snow Mrs. Claws
Lacey Thorn
Earth Moves

Friday, December 14, 2007

And I thought the 4th graders were bad...


Yesterday was the 8th grade field trip. Instead of driving my son and three of his friends like I'd planned on, I got stuck with four girlies. I've been volunteering at my kids' school for several years, so I knew two of them well. The other two I didn't know at all, but they were both pretty nice. I'd apparently repressed how maniacally giggly 13 year old girls are. Yikes!
Now, I'm not going to pretend that I wasn't freakishly giddy at that age - hell, sometimes I'm still freakishly giddy. I had however forgotten the level of ear piercing shrieking that goes on with 13 year old girls. But that said, I had a great time with the chicklets. We went to see Enchanted with the other 65 or so kids, teachers and chaperones. Being so early in the morning on a school day we also had the theatre to ourselves.
The movie was absolutely delightful. I loved it. I'll admit, I'm a sucker for fairy tales, but I usually like the grittier ones. This was just adorable and fun all the way around. I'd like to take my younger son to see it. He, of course, would rather see Alvin and the Chipmunks, but I'd rather chew glass. I LOATHE Alvin and the Chipmunks.
Anyway, back to the field trip...after the movie and the subsequent squeeeeeeing by the girls and the eye rolling by the boys, we went out to lunch at Taco Bell where I ended up with my son and his friends after all. Later that night was the holiday band concert. Thank God I brought my knitting. Hubby's convinced it's the only thing that kept me from reaching out and smacking the drummer who couldn't keep time to save his life as well as grabbing the out of tune trumpet and tuning it for the poor child.
Well, I should chain myself back to the sewing machine so I can make a few more Christmas presents and return you to our regularly scheduled contest.
Do you want to win some fantastic holiday reading? If so come celebrate the Twelve days of Romance with 12 authors from Ellora's Cave, Wild Rose Press, Total-E-Bound and Cerridwen Press. Each day beginning December 8th and running through December 19th one of the twelve authors will tell what their "True love gave to them" on either their blog or website.Collect all twelve answers and e-mail them to mailto:anny@annycook.com with 12 days of Romance in the subject line to win some great books.

Deadline for answers is December 21st at midnight EST.There will be three lucky winners. The prizes –1st prize--6 books 2nd prize--4 books 3rd prize--2 books. All books and prize winners will be drawn randomly.

Anny Cook Winter Hearts
Sandra Cox Boji Stones
Bronwyn Green Ronan’s Grail
Heather Hiestand Cards Never Lie
Barbara Huffert Deal of a Lifetime
Amarinda Jones Mad About Mirabelle
Kelly Kirch Time for Love
Cindy Spencer Pape Cowboy’s Christmas Bride
Brynn Paulin FallenJacquéline Roth Access Denied
KZ Snow Mrs. Claws
Lacey Thorn Earth Moves

Thursday, December 13, 2007

I heart vengeful barbers.





I had the greatest night last. I spent the evening with Brynn Paulin, Jennifer Armintrout and Cheryl Sterling and thanks to Brynn's most awesome husband, we went to see the sneak preview of Sweeny Todd.

I admit to having very healthy fascination with Johnny Depp, Alan Rickman and Helena Bonham Carter (girl crush!) so I was pretty excited about seeing it, but holy cow, it was so much better than I'd anticipated. I loved it! It was freaking fabulous! The costuming and sets were excellent, the cinematography perfectly eerie - Tim Burton at his best.


During "The Worst Pies in London," Brynn leaned over and suggested that should be the theme song for my kitchen. Alas, she's probably right. My favorite number was "A Little Priest" - it was delightfully macabre not to mention hilarious. I really loved "By the Sea," too - so funny!



Alan Rickman does evil better than anyone on the planet and I can now add Judge Turpin to my list of all time favorite Rickman villains - the top spots going to his portrayal of Hans Gruber in the first Die Hard movie, The Sheriff of Nottingham in Robin Hood and of course Snape. the man is pure evil genius, sexy as hell and I love him for it.






Johnny Depp...what can I say? He was brilliant in the role and is singing voice was wonderful. I can't imagine anyone else doing a better job. Helena Bonham Carter was fabulous - of course, when is she not? If you like your humor (and musical numbers) dark, do NOT miss this movie!

The Twelve Days of Romance Contest is half way over - have you been collecting your answers? Remember, 12 books, 12 days, 12 answers!
Deadline for answers is December 21st at midnight EST.There will be three lucky winners. The prizes –1st prize--6 books 2nd prize--4 books 3rd prize--2 books. All books and prize winners will be drawn randomly.

Anny Cook Winter Hearts
Sandra Cox Boji Stones
Bronwyn Green Ronan’s Grail
Heather Hiestand Cards Never Lie
Barbara Huffert Deal of a Lifetime
Amarinda Jones Mad About Mirabelle
Kelly Kirch Time for Love
Cindy Spencer Pape Cowboy’s Christmas Bride
Roth Access Denied
KZ Snow Mrs. Claws
Lacey Thorn Earth Moves




Tuesday, December 11, 2007

The Tooth Reaper Makes Housecalls



My day job involves children. I take them to and from school, I tutor, I teach them things like sewing, weaving grapevine wreaths, a little pottery here and there, sarcasm and creative insults. Most days, it's a pretty good gig.

One of my day care moms is awesome. She's been with me for twelve years. The other mom makes me grind my teeth on an almost daily basis, but back to the other one. She and her girls are basically family - I'd do anything for them and vise verse.

Tonight was one of those nights. B (short for Abby) had a loose tooth. She's nine and an absolute FREAK about losing teeth. She'll let the loose ones stay in until they reattach or the new one grows in all wonky next to it. She begs me to help her get it out and then kicks and screams when I try.
Her mom can't pull them because it queases her out. It doesn't bother me so I do it. Last time I had to pull one out, my youngest son made me a scythe out of legos and named me the Tooth Reaper. I tried to talk B into letting me take care of it before she left, but she was having none of it, so it was no surprise when her mom called an hour later. I could have had her bring B back over here but really, I figured I'd save everyone's ear drums and drive over there. Man that kid can scream...

Anyway, the Tooth Reaper made a house call. She came. She conquered. There was screaming, tears and recriminations, but the Tooth Fairy will be making an appearance at B's house tonight. Here's hoping that she wasn't scarred for life. Too much, anyway.

Back to the regularly scheduled contest...
Do you want to win some fantastic holiday reading? If so come celebrate the Twelve days of Romance with 12 authors from Ellora's Cave, Wild Rose Press, Total-E-Bound and Cerridwen Press. Each day beginning December 8th and running through December 19th one of the twelve authors will tell what their "True love gave to them" on either their blog or website.Collect all twelve answers and e-mail them to mailto:anny@annycook.com with 12 days of Romance in the subject line to win some great books.

Deadlinefor answers is December 21st at midnight EST.There will be three lucky winners. The prizes –1st prize--6 books 2nd prize--4 books 3rd prize--2 books. All books and prize winners will be drawn randomly.
Anny Cook Winter Hearts
Sandra Cox Boji Stones
Bronwyn Green Ronan’s Grail
Heather Hiestand Cards Never Lie
Barbara Huffert Deal of a Lifetime
Amarinda Jones Mad About Mirabelle
Kelly Kirch Time for Love
Cindy Spencer Pape Cowboy’s Christmas Bride
Brynn Paulin Fallen
Jacquéline Roth Access Denied
KZ Snow Mrs. Claws
Lacey Thorn Earth Moves

Monday, December 10, 2007

A day spent with 75 fourth graders or why I'm a fan of birth control.



Today was Thing Two's big winter field trip. Why would anyone plan a field trip in winter? In Michigan? In December? No freaking clue. But away we went to the state capitol.

Anyway, it was field trip day and I promised Thing Two that I would come along. We visited the Michigan Museum of Natural History and it was great. What wasn't great was one of the extra children who'd been assigned to my group. This child had an inherent inability to stay put. I was constantly pulling him off exhibitions, dragging him away from employee only portions of the building and disappearing all together. To top it off, he kicked the back of my seat of an hour and a half on the way down there and an hour and a half on the way back.

Despite repeated threats to his continued existence, he couldn't manage to remember not to kick me for more than five minutes at a time. Nor could he remember not to howl at the top of his lungs in near rush hour traffic. Drill Sergeant Mom shut that down, but the boy had a short memory. I fantasized about leaving him on the side of the highway. The other little boy in my car, while quirky and plotting world domination with my son, was sweet and listened fairly well.

Still, I'm going on barely three hours sleep, so I'm going to crawl in my nice toasty bed, but first I'm going to flog the contest!

Do you want to win some fantastic holiday reading? If so come celebrate the Twelve days of Romance with 12 authors from Ellora's Cave, Wild Rose Press, Total-E-Bound and Cerridwen Press. Each day beginning December 8th and running through December 19th one of the twelve authors will tell what their "True love gave to them" on either their blog or website.Collect all twelve answers and e-mail them to mailto:anny@annycook.com with 12 days of Romance in the subject line to win some great books.

Deadlinefor answers is December 21st at midnight EST.There will be three lucky winners. The prizes –1st prize--6 books 2nd prize--4 books 3rd prize--2 books. All books and prize winners will be drawn randomly.

Anny Cook Winter Hearts
Sandra Cox Boji Stones
Bronwyn Green Ronan’s Grail
Heather Hiestand Cards Never Lie
Barbara Huffert Deal of a Lifetime
Amarinda Jones Mad About Mirabelle
Kelly Kirch Time for Love
Cindy Spencer Pape Cowboy’s Christmas Bride
Brynn Paulin Fallen
Jacquéline Roth Access Denied
KZ Snow Mrs. Claws
Lacey Thorn Earth Moves


Sunday, December 9, 2007

Excerpt and Contesty Goodness

Have you started collecting answers for the contest, yet? Well, on that off chance that you haven't heard about the 12 Days of Romance contest, let me sum up:


Do you want to win some fantastic holiday reading? If so come celebrate the Twelve days of Romance with 12 authors from Ellora's Cave, Wild Rose Press, Total-E-Bound and Cerridwen Press. Each day beginning December 8th and running through December 19th one of the twelve authors will tell what their "True love gave to them" on either their blog or website.Collect all twelve answers and e-mail them to mailto:anny@annycook.com with 12 days of Romance in the subject line to win some great books.
Deadlinefor answers is December 21st at midnight EST.There will be three lucky winners. The prizes –1st prize--6 books 2nd prize--4 books 3rd prize--2 books. All books and prize winners will be drawn randomly.


Anny Cook Winter Hearts

Sandra Cox Boji Stones
Bronwyn Green Ronan’s Grail
Heather Hiestand Cards Never Lie
Barbara Huffert Deal of a Lifetime
Amarinda Jones Mad About Mirabelle
Kelly Kirch Time for Love
Cindy Spencer Pape Cowboy’s Christmas Bride
Jacquéline Roth Access Denied
KZ Snow Mrs. Claws
Lacey Thorn Earth Moves





In an attempt to hopefully entice you enter, here's an excerpt from my latest Ellora's Cave release Ronan's Grail (one of the nifty prizes in the contest.)




Despite the fact that it looks like my hero was unicorn hunting, no unicorns were harmed in the writing of this story.





EXCERPT:
Without warning, Morgan was pinned flat against the institutional green wall next to the shower, Ronan's huge wet hand splayed across her upper back, holding her motionless. She struggled against the unfamiliar weight.

“What the hell is the matter with you? Let me go!”

“Cease your movement,” Ronan commanded. His warm, damp fingers lifted the back of her shirt and she fought harder. “I will not hurt you. Remain still.”

Pulling downward, he tugged at the waistband of her jeans, stroking the skin at the small of her back. “You bear the mark,” he breathed.
Mark? What mark? Realization quickly dawned.

“It's just a tattoo.” Morgan's mother had warned her but she hadn't listened. She could hear her mother's voice now. Tattoos make you look easy.

Ronan traced the outline with his fingertip, following the path of interconnected circles and sending shivers through Morgan's body.“You are the keeper of the grail.”

“What?” She struggled to turn her head. “No! That's just the vesica pisces—the symbol of the Chalice Well in Glastonbury, England.” Great…if she remembered her mythology correctly, the Chalice Well was one of the rumored resting places for the grail. After college she'd backpacked around Europe and had fallen in love with the town of Glastonbury. She'd felt a soul deep connection to the place and had the vesica pisces tattooed while she'd been there. Though her mother had complained, Morgan had never regretted it—until now.

Ronan continued to trace the mark, seemingly oblivious to the tremors of desire he sent through her. “I knew Merlin sent me to you for a reason,” he whispered.

Pulling harder on her pants, he bent to more closely inspect the design. His hot breath skated across her sensitized skin and a fresh rush of moisture dampened her core.

“Where is the grail, Morgan?”

“How the hell should I know?”

“You are its keeper,” he murmured as he brushed his calloused thumb back and forth over the design.

“No I'm not.”

He grunted his displeasure.

“Look,” she began. “I'm sorry that some crackpot guy told you that I had the answer to your problem, but he was wrong.”

“Remove your braes so I can better see the sigil.”

She glanced over her shoulder at him. “No.”

His jaw tightened and his eyes glittered with irritation. “I said, remove your braes.”

“And I said, no. It's not gonna happen.”

“Take them off or I will remove them myself.”

She craned her neck to get a better look at him. Fierce intent hardened his gaze and she shivered under his stare. Call her an idiot, but she wasn't frightened of him. She knew he wouldn't hurt her. She wasn't sure, however, about her jeans. He might just shred them to get what he wanted. And why did that perverse thought send bolts of tingling awareness to her cleft?

“I am waiting, Morgan.”

“Get used to it.”

He leaned to the side and reached for something. She followed his gaze. His sword? Panic beat like thunder in her chest and she struggled violently. Insinuating his knee between her thighs, he pressed his groin against her ass and held her more securely against the wall. His granite hard cock was trapped between them and she fought the ridiculous urge to turn around.

“Cease woman! I will not hurt you!”

“Said the man with the bloodstained sword.” She drove her elbow into his stomach, feeling almost satisfied when he grunted.

Hearing the sound of metal against leather, she froze. She'd taught stage sword fighting long enough to recognize the sound of a blade leaving its sheath. She glanced at Ronan and the dagger he held. She hadn't noticed it on his belt earlier, but clearly it had been there.

“This is your last chance, lady. Will you show me or shall I use this?”

Morgan swallowed thickly and her fingers dropped to the waistband of her jeans and released the button and zipper. With shaking hands she slid her pants down—not quite over her ass but far enough for him to see the entire image.

The dagger clattered to the floor as he sank to his knees behind her. He skimmed his hands up the outsides of her thighs until he reached her waist and pulled fabric further from her body.

“Sweet Mother of God,” he whispered, his breath warm against her lower back and ass.

Saturday, December 8, 2007

Pssst! Hey you...wanna buy a watch? Erm...I mean win some books?

Nearly everyone I know is rushing around like mad getting ready for the the holidays. Why not take a few fabulous minutes for yourself and enter The Twelve Days of Romance Contest?

Why Bronwyn, what's that, you ask.

Sit back and I shall tell you the tale.

Once upon a time, twelve fabulous authors got together and decided that they wanted to do something lovely for readers of romance. So they put their heads together, gathered their hard bodied heroes, kickass heroines and clever clues and feverishly plotted. The result is that the winner will receive six books, the person who places second will get four and the person who places third will get two.



Here are the handy dandy rules.

Do you want to win some fantastic holiday reading? If so come celebrate the Twelve days of Romance with 12 authors from Ellora's Cave, Wild Rose Press, Total-E-Bound and Cerridwen Press. Each day beginning December 8th and running through December 19th one of the twelve authors will tell what their "True love gave to them" on either their blog or website.
Collect all twelve answers and e-mail them to mailto:anny@annycook.com with 12 days of Romance in the subject line to win some great books. Deadline for answers is December 21st at midnight EST.
There will be three lucky winners. The prizes –1st prize--6 books 2nd prize--4 books 3rd prize--2 books. All books and prize winners will be drawn randomly.

Anny Cook Winter Hearts
Sandra Cox Boji Stones
Bronwyn Green Ronan’s Grail
Heather Hiestand Cards Never Lie
Barbara Huffert Deal of a Lifetime
Amarinda Jones Mad About Mirabelle
Kelly Kirch Time for Love
Cindy Spencer Pape Cowboy’s Christmas Bride
Brynn Paulin Fallen
Jacquéline Roth Access Denied
KZ Snow Mrs. Claws
Lacey Thorn Earth Moves

So that's it. It's easy. It's fun. You should enter. All the cool kids will.

BTW, here's the blurb from my book. Come back tomorrow for an excerpt. (hmm...kinda feel like a pusher)

Torrid Tarot - Ronan's Grail By Bronwyn Green

Ronan, bastard son of Lancelot of the Lake and last of King Arthur's knights, has been charged with a quest — find the Holy Grail. Merlin sends him forward in time to seek the relic, promising he'll know the keeper of the grail by a sigil. If he fails, all is lost.

Morgan Foster bears the magical symbol in the form of an ill-conceived tattoo but has no idea what to make of this hot, possibly crazy man who lays siege to her body and heart.

Timeless magic and breathless passion bring them together, but is their love strong enough to survive when the battles of the past rip their fragile future apart?

Friday, December 7, 2007

Here's something I never thought I'd say...ever.


Thing One has a 101 degree fever and Thing Two's fever is down from 105 to 102. So needless to say, we're all lying around like big lumps. Anyway, Thing One got the brilliant idea to watch the Transformers movie. Having absolutely no will power, I got sucked into the movie. You know what? I can't believe I'm about to say this, but it's really pretty good. The goals, motivation and conflict are all there, there's some decent character development and the dialogue is downright enjoyable.


Now, it could be that the plague has interfered with my ability to discern a good movie from a bad one, but I don't think so. However, I'm unwilling to test this theory by watching Mariah Carey's Glitter. That's a road I'm unable to travel - even for the advancement of science.
So what about you guys, have any movies surprised you by being much better (or worse) than you expected?

Thursday, December 6, 2007

Ugh...

It seems the plague has struck again. Thing 2 was sick with the respiratory crud and a fever when I picked him up from school yesterday and got worse through the night. I started feeling crummy last night, and Thing 1 started in with a fever this morning. Sigh...

In happier news, a bunch of TEB authors will be chatting over at Love Romance Café. Here's the address if anyone wants to come out to play. There will be excerpts from the holiday stories and who knows what else. It should be a pretty lively crowd. http://groups.yahoo.com/group/LoveRomancesCafe/

Wednesday, December 5, 2007

Christmas Survey

Brynn's mom sent me this survey and I thought it was really fun. I'd love to read your memories too, if you feel like posting them to your blog.
1. Wrapping paper or gift bags? Wrapping paper, but that's where hubby comes in. He's much neater than I am.
2. Real or fake tree? Fake. I’m allergic to real ones.

3. When do you put up the tree? Usually the weekend after Thanksgiving, but it han’t happened yet this year.


4. When do you take the tree down? Right after New Year’s Day.

5. Do you like eggnog? Meh…I’m indifferent

6. Favorite gift received as a child? The Sunshine Family and their super awesome hippie craft shop - seriously, there was even a pottery wheel and a spinning wheel. For those of you who didn’t grow up in the 70s (or have a hippie-dippie mom) let me enlighten you.






















7. Do you have a nativity scene? No

8. Hardest person to buy for? My dad.

9. Easiest person to buy for? My sister, Cait.

10. Worst Christmas gift you ever got? A Precious Moments clown figurine. I hate Precious Moments figurines and I’m terrified of clowns. There’s nothing like a heartfelt shriek of terror on Christmas morning.

11. Mail or email Christmas cards? Mail…if I get around to doing it.

12. Favorite Christmas Movie? The Grinch Who Stole Christmas

13. When do you start shopping for Christmas? Normally I start in August, but it hasn’t turned out that way this year.

14. Have you ever recycled a Christmas present? Yes

15. Favorite thing to eat at Christmas? My mom’s fudge

16. Clear lights or colored on the tree? Colored

17. Favorite Christmas song? I can’t have just one…Coventry Carol, Carol of the Bells, What Child is This? And John Lennon’s Happy Christmas...Okay, if I’m gonna be completely honest, I have to add my 80s fav, Do They Know It’s Christmas.

18. Travel at Christmas or stay home? I travel to my mom’s, my aunt’s my dad’s and my mother-in-law’s – but all of them are within an hour of my house.

19. Can you name all of Santa's reindeers? Yepper

20. Angel on the tree top or a star? A grapevine star with a little field mouse dangling from it – its’ sooo cute.

21. Open the presents Christmas Eve or morning? Christmas morning with the boys and whenever we schedule the other get-togethers with everyone else.

22. Most annoying thing about this time of year? Icy roads and heavy traffic.

23. What I love most about Christmas? Being with my crazy-ass family – they’re the best.

Tuesday, December 4, 2007

Waxing...when will I learn?

Knowing that there are scads of holiday parties coming up and knowing that my eyebrows looked like they might require a weed wacker, I decided to get my brows waxed Monday.




Usually, it's not a big deal. There's a little redness for a day or two and that's it. Not so, this time. There's a swath of burned skin above my brows. Worse, there are several layers of skin missing below my brows and my right eye is bruised and puffy.




I look a lot like I slammed my face in the car door. Needless to say, I won't be going back to that place. Sigh....


Oh look...Bush is having a press conference.

I think this picture pretty much sums up my

feelings on the subject.




Friday, November 30, 2007

Wish I'd Had Teachers Like These

I don't know what kind of teachers you all had in school, but mine left a lot to be desired. Here are a few examples.

Miss D. - the English teacher/cheerleading coach who pronounced the W in sword and couldn't diagram a sentence to save her life.

Mr. C. - the Church History teacher who let the football players sleep in class to rest up for the games.

Mr. S. - the Social Studies teacher/swim coach whose idea of a curriculum was having students read articles aloud from Newsweek magazine. This is was we did every day for a year. Also, he'd hang his terrifyingly teeny tiny speedo from the classroom window. You couldn't not look at it. It was just there.

Sister Pearl Mary - the Major World Religion teacher who insisted that there might be "perfectly lovely" people of other religions, but they were "all going to Hell."

Sister Rosine - the Old Testament teacher who made me stand up and say to the class, "I'm the bride of Satan" because I was wearing red nail polish. (This was my first experience with Catholic schooling...I wasn't impressed.)

Sister Florentine - the Algebra nun who was a notorious ear twister.

Sister Clarine - the Biology teacher whom I genuinely adored, but the woman wore six foot boa constrictors. There's nothing more disconcerting that seeing a nun in a habit draped with huge snakes. Disturbing on levels I didn't know existed.

Sister Mary Projector - okay, that wasn't her real name and she wasn't really a teacher. I can't remember her name for the life of me. All day long, she walked the halls pushing the squeaky film strip projector cart...and never delivered it anywhere. I followed her one day and she just walked up and down the halls all day. I suspect Sister Michael Ellen, the library nun gave Sister MP a room number that didn't exist just to keep her out of her hair.

Now for some teachers I wish I'd had.

One of my daycare kids is taking a field trip to the Underworld. Her seventh grade class is studying the myth of Persephone, so Mr D. is transforming his classroom into the Underworld. I'm guessing there will be pomegranates for all.

My oldest son is in the eighth grade. His teacher, Ms. D. is absolutely amazing. She connects with the kids like no one I've ever seen. This is the woman who when there's a kid appropriate concert in town, she'll accompany the kids who want to go as a chaperon. She created a Parent Awareness Night for the school where all the kids researched topics that affect teenagers like underage drinking, eating disorders, drug abuse, mental illness, AIDS, etc and then presented their findings to the parents. It was fabulous. Right now, the kids are studying the fantasy genre and every day, five different kids get to draw from the bag of Super Powers to add a little fantasy to their everyday lives.

If s/he gets Power of the Mind, s/he blows on a recorder and she gives him/her a typed page of whatever needed to be written for the class period and s/he doesn't have to write.

If s/he gets Time Travel, s/he can travel back in time and change a missing assignment.

If s/he gets d Perfectionist, s/he will wear a cape and be considered perfect and complimented by everyone in class. S/he could say the grass was perfect and everyone would agree and compliment the wisdom of the wearer of the cape.

If s/he gets Technological Genius, s/he gets to wear a special headband and listen to music while you are in class.

If s/he gets Invisibility, s/he wears special sunglasses and no matter what s/he does, the class will not notice.

These kids are excited about what they're learning and are loving what they're reading. Luckily, I had a great mom who told me tales of King Arthur and Greek Myths as bedtime stories and inspired me. I'm not even going to get started on the Wildly Inappropriate Lullabies... My hope is that every child has at least one teacher who inspires them.

Wednesday, November 28, 2007

I'm such a dork...


and I'm sure that announcement surprises no one.


Granted, last week sucked beyond the telling of it, but I forgot to tell you that I guest blogged at Novelspot. If you get a chance, stop by and take a peek.


There are five entries. There's also a photograph with each one...not sure who that chick is, but it's not me. ;)


Story Seeds

Book of Wonder

Does Your Book Have a Soundtrack?

Decrease Stress and Increase Productivity

You're a Writer - What are You Afraid of?


Here's the link to the index, if you're interested. If you get a chance, let me know what you think. http://novelspot.net/behind_the_scenes_index


Tuesday, November 27, 2007

Monday's Eye Candy...Today






Due to extreme chaos Eye Candy Monday has been moved to Tuesday. I'd like to introduce you to Kieran the hero of my story Moonlit Magic. Cleverly, he's also the hero of one of Brynn's stories - can't remember the name of the book, but his name is Airyon.












His real name is Rafael Lazini -also known as towel boy. Towel boy makes frequent appearances in emails to cheer people up. Wouldn't you be cheered up if he showed up in your inbox?





Saturday, November 24, 2007

Sad Update



I want to thank all of you for your positive thoughts and prayers. I truly believe they gave us an extra week with our beloved Small.





She took a turn for the worse Wednesday night and continued to go downhill. We ended up having to put her down yesterday.




I wish things could have been different - obviously. She was a good kitty - a good friend.
Thanks again, both for your thoughts and prayers as well as your support and friendship. I truly appreciate all of it.

Wednesday, November 21, 2007

I'm Grateful



Happy Thanksgiving, or Happy Kill the Indigenous Peoples Day as my family often says. I joke about Thanksgiving...well...Columbus Day, too, for that matter, but I do think it's important to take the time to reflect on the things we're grateful for.

So often the mindset seems to be about focusing on what we want rather than the what we have, and that can lead to dissatisfaction with our lives. Now, there's nothing wrong with wanting to improve our lives, but when we don't acknowledge the great - or yeah - even the mediocre stuff we tend to take it for granted or cease to appreciate it all together. Sometimes the acknowledging process requires us to reframe our perceptions a bit.

For instance, I could be pissy that our house needs a new roof, but looking at the economic crisis in the state of Michigan, I'm thrilled that we have a house. It's warm, it's not in danger of foreclosure and my family is safe and protected.

I could be bitter because my hubby has to work today. And truth be told, I'm not thrilled, but because he was without permanent work and we were all without health insurance for almost two years makes the fact that he now has a great job (with benefits) that he loves 99.9% of the time more important than the fact that he has to work a holiday. (I'll be bringing home leftovers for him.)

Now, I'm not trying to sound like Pollyanna here, cause really, I kinda want to slap her, but I would like to share some of the things I'm grateful for.

My kids who make me laugh and help me see the world with new eyes and teach me about love every day.

My hubby - even though he pisses me off from time to time, I love him more each day.

My family - the whole crazyass lot of them. No matter what, we're all there for one another.
My friends - they listen to me whine, share my joys, make me laugh til I turn an unhealthy shade of purple and gasp for breath.
My kitties - I'm especially thankful that Small's health is improving every day.
My career - I'm doing what I always wanted to do and loving it.
And now, in no particular order, some random bits I'm grateful for...Johnny Depp, Coke, pretty stones, music, Buffy, hot tea, the sound of clacking knitting needles, hugs, frequent and clean restrooms along the highway, the internet, Ani Difranco, vanilla flavored lip balm, sleep, chocolate, salt & vinegar potato chips, sandalwood essential oil, Adam Duritz, faeries, falling leaves, ibuprofen, cheese pizza, ren faires, books, Brian Froud, fabric stores, legos, Kate Rusby, more books, Mr. Clean Magic Eraser, central air, the muppets, laughter, standing stones, new baby smell, oak trees and the nice, warm bed I'm about to crawl into.

How about it - what are you grateful for?










Tuesday, November 20, 2007

Picture Pages from Ronan's Grail


As a prewriting exercise I basically scrapbook my story. It works really well for me on a lot of different levels. It solidifies the story in my head in the early stages. The pages help me get back into the story later in the writing process when I inevitably get pulled away. But mostly, I like to procrastinate and make pretty things.

So anyway, I thought I'd share the pretty things from Ronan's Grail. Sorry about the wonky spacing...still figuring out how to post more than one picture at time.)
I'm working on the pages for Solstice Seduction - they're pretty spiffy, if I do say so myself.

Monday, November 19, 2007

It's Monday...


I declare Monday to be Eye Candy Day. Tuesday might be too...it's been a long weekend.
On the plus side, the boyscout popcorn sale is over and I didn't murder my son's Scout Master though I was sorely tempted...on many occasions.
Had a lovely dinner yesterday at my mom's with my hubby and kids, two of my brothers and their spouses and my neice. Unfortunately, my sister and her partner and my other brother and his fam couldn't make it, but I'm hoping to see them on Thanksgiving as long as Small is well enough for me to leave her for that long.
Speaking of Small, she got her IV catheter taken out yesterday, so now I'm giving her sub-cutaneous fluids at home. She's eating a bit and drinking a little and is more alert than she has been. We still don't know what caused her liver to stop functioning in the first place, but I'm hoping we can figure it out so this doesn't happen again.
Back to eating pomegrantes, cuddling a kitty and the WIP.

Saturday, November 17, 2007

Some Smallish News

First of all I'd like to thank everyone for their prayers, positive thoughts and vibes - I truly, truly appreciate it. I think Small does too.

She's showing some signs of improvement. The doctor let me bring her home yesterday since she started eating on her own. Unfortunately, she's not drinking yet so we're still giving her IV fluids. She's responsive and even tackled the stairs today. Right now, she's laying on my bed with me being the Queen of All She Surveys. She's delighted at being reunited with her boy, and her boy is very happy too.

It's too soon to tell if the liver meds are working, but we're encouraged by her progress - particularly the doctor who told me that he honestly didn't think she'd survive the night Thursday.

So thank you all again, from the bottom of my heart. Please keep the positive vibes and prayers coming. I'm hoping for a healthy Small for Christmas.

Thursday, November 15, 2007

Small


This is Tamerlyn Catkin a.k.a. Small. As you might be able to tell, she's not the least little bit small.
She's great cat. Loving, loyal, hilariously funny - although I don't think she intends to be. Every night, she climbs the ladder to the upper bunk in my boys' room so she can sleep with my oldest son. Killian is her boy. She follows him everywhere, lays on the desk while he's playing computer games or doing homework, watches him play guitar hero and stares at him from the porch while he skateboards.
So here's the thing, I'm not simply posting to evangelize about my cat. We just got back from the vet, and Small's not doing well - it looks like she's got liver disease along with some other issues. She had to spend the night so the doctor can run some more tests on her. My kids are absolute wrecks and to be honest, so am I. I would really appreciate any prayers and positive thoughts you can send her way.

Wednesday, November 14, 2007

Today's the Day...Well, the other one, anyway.


It's been quite the week so far, and it's only Wednesday.
Monday, I had my first TEB release.
Yesterday, I did not drop kick a daycare child who desperately deserved it.
And today is my third EC release, Ronan's Grail! I've been waiting a long time to see this story in print. It's been rattling around my head for years - ever since I worked in the costume shop of my university's theatre.


Incidentally, this is how I picture Ronan. The art department had a different idea...and evidently, they took him unicorn hunting. I'd post it here, but I'm not clever enough to post more than one picture per blog. However, the fantabulous Amarinda has it on her blog where she was kind enough to interview me. As AJ would say, go have a squiz. http://amarindajones.blogspot.com/


Monday, November 12, 2007

Today's the Day

Long time no blog...at least it feels that way. I spent most of the weekend in bed.

No, not doing anything fun.

I wish.

Anyway, I'm sure you've all heard about the special TEB release, Camouflaged Hearts. TEB has set it up so all proceeds are going to help the families of fallen soldiers. I'm so excited to be part of this anthology for several of reasons. The obvious is to be able to do something tangible to help. Many of my family members served (or are serving) in different branches of the military. In fact, I wouldn't be here today if my Grandpa hadn't been sent to Wales during WWII. He met my Gram at a dance hall in Cardiff and the rest is, as they say, history. My Grandparents are both gone now, but I wrote the story in the CH anthology in honor of them.

I'm feeling awfully nostalgic today so I'd like to share some things I learned from my Grandparents.

The proper way to pick strawberries is to put them in the quart basket - not in your mouth.

Rhubarb tastes best dipped in sugar.

The endearment “bassie” and a scratch on the neck will get you nearly anywhere with a cow.

Cwvtched up on Grandpa’s lap is one of the coziest places to be.

The quiet clacking of knitting needles is the most comforting sound I can think of.

A poke in the bum with said knitting needles is a fine motivator.

If you’re going to attempt painting or wallpapering with your spouse, prepare to bicker. More importantly, plan on making-up when you’re finished.

Hard work, respect, dignity, integrity, faith, love, patience and kindness are not just vague ideals. They can be accomplished – every day.

A person’s worth is measured by traits far greater than wealth or status.

Nothing is more precious than family.

The beauty of unfailing love and the true meaning of standing by your spouse in sickness and health.

Love transcends time, distance, illness and even death.

The most wonderful, loving family in the world, can begin at a dance hall with a wristwatch.


And now, a word from Claire and the rest of the anthology authors.
The eleventh hour of the eleventh day of the eleventh month

November is poppy month, the time of the year when we wear a red poppy in memory of those who laid down their lives for our sakes

As Remembrance Sunday approaches, to pay tribute to our brave soldiers and those they’ve left behind, Total-e-Bound release our tribute anthology.

Total-e-bound wanted to do something to show our own real brave warriors—who fight to defend us and their countries every day—just how much their bravery means to us.

Being an ex-army wife myself, and having been brought up with the forces as a child, I know what it’s like for the families when the soldiers go off to war. The pain, emotion and worry those families endure, never knowing if their loved ones will come home.

I also know of their strength and courage in the face of adversity, and I know just how much the forces wives band together to create a solid and structured support network for each other, the likes of which you just don’t get in civilian life. But for sadly far too many, the pain and hardship goes on way beyond the scope of support networks and memorial parades, news reports and flag waving. As the years pass and the world moves on—news reports become historical texts. Memories fade for many but for some the pain is silent and deep, very real and enduring.

A forces life is not an easy one for the families waiting back home, but they are the backbone—the glue that holds it all together.

So for this anthology, we wanted to give something back. Give something to the wives and families who endure and who have loved and lost.

Total-e-Bound’s profits from this anthology will be going to Forces Benevolent Funds to support and help those families who have lost their husbands and wives, fathers and mothers, sons and daughters, in the recent conflicts.

Remember to wear your poppy with pride.

Claire Siemaszkiewicz
Managing Director
Total-e-Bound Publishing


Our authors involved in this anthology would also like to say a few words as to why they decided to get involved in this project:

The opportunity to partner with Total-e-Bound for such a wonderful cause was a chance I didn’t wish to miss. While I am an author, first and foremost I am a Navy wife so if there was a way my writing could help families who have lost loved ones during these current conflicts, I knew I had to give it a shot. Military families are very often overlooked and I thank TEB for doing such a charity and allowing me to be a part of it.
~Aliyah Burke

I chose to participate in the Camouflaged Hearts anthology primarily due to the energy that evolved around the discussions and emails concerning this project. It just seemed right and meaningful. When I began the story, it took on its own voice and I loved writing about Emmy's journey. I hope you all enjoy!
~Jennah Sharpe

I have several family members who have served in the military, and I’ve seen first-hand, the struggles that military families endure as their soldiers are deployed. Participating in this anthology felt like tangible way to help in a situation where I’ve often felt helpless. In addition, I’ve also seen how love can flourish during these times, and I wanted to show that it’s possible for something beautiful to arise from the horror of war.
~Bronwyn Green

I was thrilled by the opportunity to participate in the Camouflaged Heart anthology from Total-e-Bound. What a magnificent idea for a publisher to donate their profits to charity...and I wondered, how could I do less?

My daughter, you see, fell in love with a soldier. It was a wild, thrill of a ride, heightened by the realization he would be deploying to Iraq within weeks of their meeting.
When he returned safely, they married, a fairytale event in a local park, a hurried event before their move to Texas.
We're among the lucky. CJ has, thankfully, been safe. But as we know, a great number of his comrades have not been.
Whit and my beautiful grandbaby live with the knowledge that time is precious, that every moment with CJ is to be cherished.
I've seen amazing bravery as they each watch the calendar tick toward the date of the next deployment.
In honor of the brave service people throughout the world, I am proud to donate every penny of my earnings to charity, as well.
~SL Majors



http://www.total-e-bound.com/product.asp?CAT_ID=&P_ID=185
'A Marriage of Convenience' by Aliyah BurkeA Naval pilot, a one night stand and years later a second chance, can they make it work this time?Pharmacological student, Ayanna Barker, was working hard to give her and her son a good life. Sure, things were tight, but it was all worth it. The man who had given her her child has also given her the best night of her life…and she had never forgotten him. US Navy pilot Lieutenant Michael Taylor loved the rush his job gave him but even that took a back seat to how he felt about the lovely Ayanna Barker, but circumstances keep them apart. Four years later Michael sees her at a different military institution. Ayanna is more beautiful than his vivid memories had recalled her to be, but now she has a child…she has his child. Determined to be a part of her life, and his sons, Michael moves them in to his home and marries her. Each day reawakened emotions burn hotter and hotter as they try and keep things under control.But can Michael and Ayanna realise what they share is so much more than just a marriage of convenience?'In the Arms of a Pilot' by Jennah SharpeShe found the touch she missed in another pilot, but the guilt could prove too much to bear.Emmeline hated the thought of her man going off to war, but that was something she needed to keep to herself. When she received news that he was MIA, she didn’t fall into grief as she thought she should have. Instead, she went looking for the arms of another man. She found the touch she missed and craved in yet another RAF pilot. Ethan gave her everything her body missed and craved. But overcoming the guilt was another matter…for both of them.
'Double Time' by SL Majors
Well, it is for a good cause, Micah Collins tells herself. Queen and Country and all that, even if her suggestion is a bit over the top…
Micah offers big money for the local military fundraiser if she can purchase the services of two of England's finest soldiers.
And who could be better than devilishly handsome captain Trent Williams and sexy-as-sin captain Clayton Blackwell to help her get rid of the pesky problem of her virginity?
Since it's just for the weekend, Clayton and Trent, mates since university, agree to the unknown woman's odd request, not realizing they'll all get a lot more than they bargained for…
'From the Ruins' by Bronwyn Green
Cardiff Wales, 1943—Moira Boulton never expected her instant attraction to the American she meets thousands of miles from his home. Not in her home town. Not in the midst of a war. But there's no denying the desire burning between her and the foreign soldier, David Webber.
They barely have time to explore the explosive force between them when an air raid drives them to take shelter. Alone in a dark cellar, with bombs dropping overhead, they take comfort in each other and their undeniable passion.
When David disappears without a word, Moira is left to wonder, if a passion that burned so bright was nothing more than a pleasant diversion or if they actually can salvage a relationship from the ruins.

Excerpts:

Marriage of Convenience by Aliyah Burke

Michael Taylor had been talking on his cell phone when he’d stepped into the busy beer tent line. A jostle from behind had almost shoved him into the woman in front of him. His hand had swiped across the bottom of her back and in that second, everything else had faded away. Electrical currents had showered him. The second her soulful brown eyes had landed on his, it was as if he’d just hit mach one in his jet.
He’d stood still as her eyes had travelled hungrily over him. Part of him had wanted to preen while more of him had wanted to lift her up, carry her away from everyone and kiss her senseless. And keep going from there.
What the hell am I thinking? I don’t know this woman, but damn if I don’t want to.
She wore a purple open-backed shirt that perfectly offset the nutmeg hue of her skin and a pair of hip hugging black jeans. He saw sandals on her feet and if he moved his head just so, he could see the dark purple on her toenails.
While their physical connection was over almost immediately, the ardent impression still lingered between them. He wasn’t blind to the desire swirling in her eyes no matter how she tried to pretend indifference.
Paying for her beer along with his, it seemed only natural to settle his large palm against the smooth, dark skin of her back as they left the overcrowded beer tent.
He had no problem following her. The gentle scent on her skin reached out and wound around him, making him yearn for more of her. He craved to find out if her perfume was just around her neck or if the tempting smell went all the way to her feet.
When she stopped to allow a group of people to pass, he leaned forward and murmured, “Michael,” into her ear.
Her head turned, positioning her full tempting lips a hairsbreadth from his, and she whispered, “Ayanna.”
He kissed her. He had no choice. Her mouth had teased him as it formed her name and challenged him to sample her lips. She tasted divine.
The innocent kiss quickly evolved into something more. Michael hungered for all that this woman offered. He dominated the kiss, using his tongue to sweep throughout the recesses of her mouth.
His cock swelled and dug into her side as Michael plundered her mouth. He groaned his pleasure as the kiss lengthened.
The roar of jets in the sky rumbled around them and put a miniscule distance between their bodies as he struggled for restraint.
Ayanna’s lips were swollen from the force of their kiss.
“I want you,” he stated bluntly as he watched the rapid rise and fall of her chest. She ran her tongue over her lips.
“Yes,” she breathed huskily.
“After the show.” Taking her hand, he led her to a vacant spot on the ground. They watched the show like any other couple, holding hands, exchanging kisses, and occasionally staring into each other’s eyes. As the park had begun to empty after the show, Michael kept one muscled arm around her, anchoring them together. They’d stopped at the entrance. Pressing her against the cool wall of a ticket booth, Michael ran his hands through her short hair. Strong legs settled on either side of her thin body, eliminating any means of escape.


In the Arms of a Pilot by Jennah Sharpe

The day was warm enough to need a hat for sunshade but cool enough that I wrapped my navy cardigan around my shoulders.
I stopped for lunch in a little bakery on the main street just over the bridge from Rose’s cottage. I couldn’t resist the scent wafting out into the street. I didn’t speak to anyone inside, yet the local crowds watched me closely. Pond Hollow was a small town, full of closely-knit people and the patrons of the bakery were no different. It was obvious to me, that I was the stranger in town and that my actions right then would be my first impression. Where they wondering why I was staying with Rose? No one asked. If they wondered what my intentions were with the bachelor who owned the farm, it didn’t come up. I knew I would have to be very careful what I said to Rose. Word would definitely get back to town. I decided to keep my thoughts about Ethan to myself.
It wasn’t until after dinner that I noticed a lantern glowing in the loft of the barn. Ethan’s broad form cast a dark shadow across the boards of the loft.
Sitting in my room reading a Jane Austin novel, I suddenly had the urge to talk to another human being and my gaze kept being drawn to his fluid shadow in the barn. Rose unfortunately was no conversationalist but that was no matter. I missed having a male in my life. That decided it. It wasn’t a sin to want male companionship, was it?
Ethan was pitching hay from the loft of the barn down to the cattle. He was shirtless, his skin smooth and brown from the sun. I watched quietly as he smoothed his dark hair from his forehead. It stuck up momentarily before flopping back down in his eyes. He was the epitome of masculine form.
“Hello,” I called up to him. “I’m Emmy Rosthorn.”
He grinned at my obvious foolishness. “We’ve met,” he said quietly. I’m sure he thought I didn’t notice but his gaze was appreciative as it flicked over my body. I’m sure my face was as red as a cherry, but he gave no indication of noticing. At least he found me somewhat attractive. That was encouraging.
Right that moment as he gazed at me with such intensity, I’d never been lonelier for someone to put his arms around me. It seethed inside me, threatening to pour out all over him.
“Right then. Have a good day,” I said, backing away. I wanted him more than anything, but the prospect was also terrifying. I would essentially be having an affair. My mind was in turmoil and completely at odds with the feelings in my body.
“Emmy…”
I turned toward him. “Yes?”
“I’m just on leave.” He straightened and leaned on his pitchfork.
“I’m aware of that,” I said hesitantly, wondering what he was getting at.
“And you’re promised to another.”
I crossed my arms over my breasts. “What’s that got to do with anything?” I hadn’t said anything about my attraction out loud.
“It’s why there can’t be anything between us.” His gaze didn’t leave mine.
“Did I ask that of you?”
He bowed his head and kicked at a pile of straw. “All but.”
“You seem to know an awful lot about me.” I took the opportunity to walk closer to him.
“We’re both lonely, Emmy, and you’re quite beautiful. I saw you watching me, and I just want you to know where I stand.”
“Do you say this to all the girls?” He blushed then and I felt I had some semblance of control over the conversation. I pushed him a bit more. “Did you tell Rose the same thing?”
“Rose is like a sister to me. We practically grew up together and she doesn’t have the need inside her that I see in your eyes. And such lovely blue eyes they are, Emmy.”
I was close enough now to feel his breath on my face. He smelled of sweet hay, sunshine and sweat. It was a heady mixture. It struck me just how much I missed someone touching me, someone wrapping their arms around me. The feeling was something Will would have understood. I’m more than sure he would have wanted the same thing for himself, if I were lost to him. He would have taken the opportunity, I told myself. And so would I. I reached out to stroke Ethan’s upper arm. He didn’t move, but his breath hitched in his throat.

Double Time by SL Majors

“Absolutely not.” Captain Trent Williams’s fingers formed a death-grip around the pint of beer on the table in front of him. Jaynie, his younger sister’s best friend, could beg and cajole all night long. But he wasn’t budging. “I am not fucking a woman I’ve never met. No matter how long I’ve been in the desert.” Or how horny he was. He had morals and scruples to go along with his hard dick.
“It’s only for two days,” Jaynie shouted above the noise.
Clayton, his mate since university, hid his laugh by taking a deep swig from the amber liquid in his mug. What the hell was a best friend for, anyway, if not to laugh his ass off when his mate was faced with female disaster?
It was no accident that she’d invited him and Clayton to a public place that served up loud, throbbing music, cocktail waitresses in short, short skirts, and lots and lots of beer. Get him liquored up, that would be Jaynie’s plan, and then move in for the kill.
She batted her baby blues hopefully. “Please, Trent? It’s for a good cause. Promise.”
“It’s always for a good cause. Last time it was posing for a calendar with a puppy.”
“And we raised a mint for the dog shelter.”
Unfortunately for her and this week’s charity, he was wiser than he’d been last time he was home. And he’d made sure not to drink more than a pint.
“Sorry, love. You’ll have to find some other bloke.”
“Blokes.”
“I beg your pardon?”
“Blokes.” She repeated. “The lady in question specifically requested you…” Jaynie had the good grace to flush with embarrassment before glancing at the table. “And Clayton.”
Trent looked at his comrade.
“Wait. Both of us?” Clayton asked.
“She doesn’t just want me? She wants…?” Trent trailed off, snapping his mouth shut. Jaynie was a harebrained mastermind, but this? She might as well have dropped an IED in the middle of the room.
“Yes. And she’s willing to pay for it. Uh, for you. Willing to pay for both of you. Handsomely, I might add.” She smiled sunnily, her embarrassment apparently forgotten. “Did I mention it’s for a good cause?”
“Jesus, Jaynie,” Clayton said. Beer sloshed over the rim of his glass. “Trent’s right. You’re out of your mind.”
“Not so funny now, is it, mate?”
“What kind of woman pays for sex with a stranger?” Clayton asked.
“Not a stranger,” she corrected. “Two of them. Actually, you both have quite the reputation in town, so it’s not as if you’re an unknown. Actually, I wish I’d thought of it myself. I’d have bought you in a heartbeat.”
Clayton choked on a drink of beer. Trent smacked him on the back.
“It was the calendar,” Jaynie said, going on as if neither had spoken. “Mr. July.” She nodded to Trent. “Hot enough to sizzle for summer. And Mr. December.” She grinned at Clayton. “Cool as ice. In fact…” She reached into her handbag and pulled out a cheque book. She uncapped a ballpoint pen, then started to scrawl her signature on the bottom line.
Trent’s blood heated to a slow boil. “We are not sleeping with you, Jaynie.”
“Then…?”
“Or the mystery woman,” he added.
She pouted. “Ten thousand pounds.”
“Ten thousand…” Clayton trailed off.
“And it’s all or nothing. She gets both of you, or she wants neither. Think about it.” She dropped her pen and curled her hand around Trent’s wrist. “No one will ever know.”
“Not like the damn calendar,” Clayton grumbled.
“Ten thousand quid to benefit John MacDougal’s family.”
“Fuck.” John MacDougal’s family. He’d served in the Middle East with John. Fine man. Fine soldier. With three-year-old twins. Fuck. Trent took a long drink from his beer. “That’s low, Jaynie, even for you.”
“I didn’t make the offer,” she said, softly. The teasing was gone. Nothing but the weight of a fallen comrade shrouded the table. Even the music seemed to recede.
They all knew John and Susan. Jaynie had gone to school with the couple. He and Clayton knew John from the Army. Trent remembered that the man had carried a picture of the twin girls and his wife in his pocket, tucked inside a small Bible. Fuck.
“What does she want us to do?”
At Clayton’s question, Trent raised a brow.
“She’s willing to send a car for you on Friday, around tea time. You’ll be returned on Sunday, most likely in the afternoon, if that suits you. You could probably negotiate a longer stay if needed.” She smiled sweetly, innocently. She was neither, Trent knew.
“That wasn’t my question,” Clayton said.
“Oh, the usual, I suppose.” She waved a hand dismissively. “Whatever it is that two men do when they get a sexy woman in bed.”
“Sexy?” Clayton asked.
Trent shouldn’t have clapped Clayton on the back. He should have boxed the man’s ears. The idea was preposterous. Outrageous.
“Sexy,” Jaynie repeated.
“So why is she paying for a fuck?” Trent asked.
“You’re being crude, Captain.”
“Answer Clayton’s question, Jaynie.”
“I didn’t ask. I took the money and ran.”
Very carefully, he enunciated each word. “You took the money?”
“Oh. Uhm. Well…”
He let her dangle from the noose of her own words.
“I knew you wouldn’t say no, not when you knew it was for Susan and the wee babies.” This time, she appealed to Clayton. Smart woman. “You like don’t have to touch each other. Just her. I think.”
“What the hell?” Trent demanded.
She ignored him and continued to look at Clayton. “You could even take turns. One of you in her bedroom at a time. Wear a condom if you want.”
“Jaynie,” Trent warned.
“Ten thousand quid,” she said again. “Not for you, for the MacDougals.”
“Susan needs it,” Clayton reminded Trent. “And we always said we’d do what we needed to in order to help out.”
He looked from Clayton to Jaynie, and then back again. They had both lost their collective minds. The calendar was beginning to look as if it had been one of her better ideas.
“She’s John’s widow, Clayton.” Jaynie stroked the back of Clayton’s hand and ignored Trent. “No commitments or obligations. You’ll be making the generous donor happy as well as helping Susan and the children.”
Trent brought his fist down on the table. All three beer mugs jumped. “Forget it.”
“I’m in,” Clayton said.
Trent blinked. “You’re what?”
“It’s for a good cause, mate. Queen and country and all that.”

From the Ruins by Bronwyn Green

“Where are you going? I just got here.”
Moira Boulton and her friend, Bethan, stopped on the stairs of the USO dance hall and stared at the handsome stranger with the American accent and the glacier-blue eyes. Her breath stalled in her chest as she met his gaze. She would have thought that eyes the colour of a winter sky would be cold and remote, but not his. Fiery and intense, his gaze raked over her body, sending tingles coiling through her middle.
Despite his overly forward behaviour, her lips twitched in amusement. “I’m sorry, sir, but do we know each other?”
Flashing her a devastating smile, he bowed slightly, his burnished brown hair drooping over his forehead. “I’m Private David Webber of the United States Army, and if I’m not mistaken, you’re the mother of my future children.”
His companions whom she’d barely noticed chuckled good naturedly as a startled laugh escaped her. “The mother of your children, you say?”
“Well, future children,” he said with a wink.
“How often does that line actually work?”
“I don’t know. You’re the only one I’m ever going to say it to.”
He obviously wasn’t serious, but he was charming. Shaking her head in bemusement, she offered him her hand. “I’m Moira Boulton and this is my friend, Bethan Jones.”
He nodded politely to her friend as his large, warm hand closed around Moira’s. “Will you give me the honour of the next dance?” he asked. “After all, we have a wedding to plan.”
For a moment, she imagined the sensation of laying her head against his broad chest and feeling his strong arms around her. It was tempting to return to the loud, crowded hall, but she needed to get home. “The last bus is leaving shortly, and we need to be on it.”
His disappointment appeared genuine, but how could it be? After all, they’d just met. “I’m sure there are plenty of other girls inside who would love to dance with you,” she said as she pulled her hand free, ignoring the sour feeling in her stomach as she imagined Mary Katherine Landis in his arms.
He frowned waving away the suggestion and cocked his head toward the open door of the dance hall. “Give me your hand.”
There was something about this man that encouraged her trust. Even if Bethan hadn’t been there, she’d still feel safe with him, but somehow that same sense of trust left her feeling somewhat unnerved. They were in the middle of a war, for God’s sake, not to mention the fact they didn’t know one another. But as she studied his open expression, she realised she wanted to know him. Taking a leap of faith, she placed her hand in his again and allowed him to lead her to the walk-way at the bottom of the stairs.
A lively tune drifted from the building along with the scent of cigarette smoke, and David gently pulled her into his arms. “At least give me the pleasure of a dance until your bus arrives.”
She glanced around the street. “Here?”
He gestured to the darkening sky. “The moon is almost full, and the stars seem nearly close enough to touch. But you’re still the most beautiful sight here.”
Following his lead, she swayed to the faint strains of music. “You’re a right charmer, Mr. Webber.”
“David,” he corrected smoothly. “And I only speak the truth.”
She had no doubt she was nothing more than a passing fancy for him. After all, he was stuck in a foreign country, and she was a diversion. As handsome and charming as he was, she was likely one of many such diversions. The question was, did she care? Despite Bethan’s disapproving stare, Moira melted into David’s warm embrace.
He tucked her hair behind her ear as he stared into her eyes. “You’re a hard woman to catch, Moira.”
She frowned. “Beg your pardon?”
“I’ve been trying to meet you for the last three weeks, but every time I make it to the hall, you’re getting on that damnable bus.”
Moira laughed, shaking her head.
“It’s true. I snuck out early tonight in hopes of at least one dance with the most bewitching woman I’ve ever seen.”
His compliments warmed her, false though they might be. “You do tell a lovely tale.”
Shaking his head, he leaned toward her, his lips hovering above hers. “And you’re stubborn,” he muttered. “You ought to know, I’m about to kiss you.”
“I should hope so,” she breathed.
His lips brushed across hers, the barest of touches. With a soft caress, he cupped her cheek as he deepened the kiss. Opening against the gentle press of his mouth, her lips parted and welcomed the slight stroke of his tongue against hers. He tasted of coffee and rich, warm male.
For a moment, she forgot they were on a public street. She forgot that they’d only just met. She forgot everything but the pleasure of his kiss and the shelter of his embrace.
“Moira!” Bethan snapped, breaking the blissful spell David wove around her. “The bus is coming.”
David raised his head, regret plain in his gaze. “When can I see you again?”
She glanced at the approaching vehicle, torn between the desire to stay and the relief that she couldn’t. “I don’t know.”
“Be here tomorrow night.”
She took a step back, sanity trickling back. “How do I know you’ll be here?”
Releasing his hold on her, he unbuckled the brown leather band of his wristwatch and pressed the timepiece into her hand and held it there. “My sister gave this to me before I shipped out.”
Moira tried to follow his logic, but shook her head in confusion.
A warm smile curved the lips that had so recently been on hers. “She told me she’d kill me if I came home without it. “I’ll be back because I have to get my watch. And you’ll be here so you can return it to me.” Gently, he brushed her hair from her eyes. “I’ll be here to see you, because I can’t go home without it.”
Clearly pleased with his logic, he dropped another kiss on her upturned mouth.
“How do you know I won’t sell it in the meanwhile?”
“You won’t,” he said as he brushed his thumb over her cheekbone. He gave her another quick kiss and walked her to the open door of the bus.

Camouflaged Hearts is available for sale from Monday 12th November.
http://www.total-e-bound.com/product.asp?CAT_ID=&P_ID=185
Erotic Rating Total-e-burning
Genre Action/Adventure, Ménage à Trois, Historical WWII
Book Length Anthology
ISBN# 978-1-906328-54-2