Happy Friday the 13th Ladies and Gents!
Isn't it a most luckiest of days! and I want everyone to throw of that myth of it being an dark bad day! It's a day of power and strength so use it to your advantage! :)
On the news front My story "When Love Commands" was accepted by Phaze and instead of being in their Force line will be lengthened to be a Novella and have its own cover! I am so excited by this because When Love Commands is another one of my babies and its a tribute to the hunky men in uniform who go overseas and we miss so much..Look for it Jan 2008 from Phaze!
On Thursday 4/26/2007 Sabrina Luna will be guest blogging here with us !! Yayyyyy. She is on her virtual book tour for "Hot Pursuit" her new book coming out with MGP and has made "heart to heart" one of her stops. How lucky are we to have her! You must stop by and see what the Siren of Seduction has to say!
The Intimate desires Contest is going on now at www.thedecadenceofdahlia.com
Click on the contest page and enter away it is the sexiest contest yet!
Well you saucy flirts. I am off to start the day and my weekend! TGIF! :)
Until i see you again
Smooches
Dahlia Rose
Friday, April 13, 2007
A Kayelle Allen Interview!!
Happy Friday!
Today a faublous author is with us today Kayelle Allen! Her books are edgy and exciting and she was gracious enought to answer a few of my question! Enjoy!
Dahlia: Good morning Kayelle! Thanks for being here! First off Tell us how you started on this road to writing?
Oh, boy. I think I was born with a pen in my hand, which must have been awful for my mother. *_* I've always loved writing and had a love affair with words. "How do you spell that?" was my catch phrase growing up. I wanted to know word origins, how they were used, that sort of thing. I was the champion at spelling bees. LOL - but my late mother always wanted to be a published author, and had several rejections -- I think her love passed on to me and inspired me.
2: Dahlia: The Chosen “Alitus” is one of my favorites. Where did the idea behind the book come from?
Oh, thank you! I'm glad to know Alitus has a friend out there. :) His character started out as a walk-on part. I needed an assistant for the Empress in a scene, and soon realized I couldn't keep saying "her assistant". I knew - Destoiya being the hunk-lover she is - that she would have a male secretary she could chase around the desk. One who would make sure she always caught him. When I realized he had to have a name I got worried, because I have this odd ability to completely capture a character once I name them and they tend to take over when that happens. In fact, it's impossible for me to write an un-named character. I don't know how others do it. So - once I came up with the first name Alitus (which came from the sound of "elite") the last name Vivaldi was simple. It's the name of the composer of the Four Seasons - which is beautiful classical music. I'd had a dickens of a time remembering the name Vivaldi and decided that if I named a character after him, the name would stick. Boy did it. :)
Not long after I came up with the character, 9/11 struck. We were suddenly hearing about women in Afghanistan being forced to veil. I've always believed that if a woman chooses to veil, it is to her own honor to do so. Being forced to comply with other's wishes is not. I decided that one day I'd write about a veiled character. Now, those who know me understand that I never take a story where you think it's going. I delight in twisting it to make sure that what you think will happen rarely does. So of course, my veiled character is a man. Why he is veiled, and how, is the true basis of Alitus. He is not your typical alpha hero - Alitus does not sweep a sweet little woman off her feet. Empress Destoiya is anything but that. Alitus stands beside the ruler of an empire as her equal, while remaining her devoted lover and steadfast follower.
3: Dahlia: What current releases do you have for the readers?
I have four books out. Alitus, the most current, takes place five years after the book Wulf. Both are in the Tales of the Chosen series. Chronologically, the books are Wulf, At the Mercy of Her Pleasure, For Women Only, and Alitus. I didn't write them in that order though. Mercy was first, featuring Senth Antonello, who was trying to rescue his brother Khyff. Then I wrote Khyff's book, For Women Only - in which he has to do some saving of his own on Senth's behalf. Both of them were pawns of the Empress in a plot that involved Luc Saint-Cyr, aka the Harbinger, one of the most feared men in the empire. When I started to write my current book in progress, I realized I needed to step back in time and tell the story of how Saint-Cyr and Wulf became lovers. This was fun, because their book takes place when Senth was a teenager, so I got to write the hero of Mercy as a "PITA" kid. What fun that was! Then to complete the story in Women, Alitus needed to have his story told. So now, I have two books to go in the Chosen series, and one more to round out the Antonello brothers before I start on a new set of escapades in the Tarthian Empire. All my books are currently available at http://lsbooks.com I also have a short story available in print in A Time To... the Best of the Lorelei Signal Vol 1, 2006
http://www.lulu.com/content/476194
4: Dahlia: Do you have any upcoming books the readers should look for?
Do I! The next Chosen series book is Jawk, about a Kin hero who is an Alpha among Alphas. You will never forget him. Up to now, Luc Saint-Cyr has been my only Alpha, which he says is because there is only room in any pack for one. Jawk will give literally give him a run for his money. Then comes When I Breathe, which brings back the Antonello boys in a reunion story, and the after that is Bold, the next Chosen book. That one is itching to be told. It's about a synesthete - a person who can hear color and see sound; yeah - read that again - it's exactly what I meant.
I also have two anthologies in the works, and one more being planned. Shayla Kersten, Sienna Black, and I have formed SKS Productions in order to devote our time to an anthology about a forgotten people group in the United States. Imagine being born into a family whose gift is the ability to see, experience, and influence the dreams of others. As this ability increases over the generations, your clan is cast out, forced to shield its powers, to guard its members, and eventually to hide its very existence... We hope to develop this into an anthology, and possibly a series.
5: Dahlia: Your reviews are excellent for your books Kayelle. How did it feel when you got your very first review?
I appreciate you saying that. You're right -- I have had gracious reviews from some excellent sources, and that is extremely gratifying. A friend sent me the link to my first review and told me it was amazing. When I read what they had to say it was like getting a warm hug from a friend. The best part was that I could tell that they grasped the concept of the story and saw the bigger picture I was trying to show. It was a vindication of all the time I spent creating the history, background of the empire, language of the Kin, tradestandard laws... It all came together in my first book, and the readers and reviewers loved it. I couldn't wait to write more.
6: Dahlia: There are many roles we play in this world. Was writing your first love and did you continuously pursue it?
I decided at age 18 that I wanted to be a writer. Then I joined the Navy to see the world. (Um, it's mostly made of water, btw. Especially if you're in the Navy. LOL) Got married. Had 3 kids. Did the homemaker thing till they were in school, then went back to work. The kids grew up, moved out. Suddenly I had time on my hands again. That's when I decided to go back to my first love and started writing again. People are surprised when they find out I have adult children. I've been told I write like I'm in my 20s. Which is kind of neat, because I don't think I've ever really outgrown my childhood. ^_^
7: Dahlia: Are there any scenes in your books you find are difficult to write? Why?
For me, the only difficult ones are the ones I haven't written yet. I have to give myself permission to write badly sometimes, so that I can finish a story. I tell myself I'm just going to get the words on the page and then I can had them over to my critique group and let my crit buddies pick away. What surprises me is they often suggest only a word or two here and there and tell me it doesn't need much changed. Sometimes, if we get our inner editor out of the way we can write more -- fluidly. Does that make sense?
8: Dahlia: What are the things that relax you the most or would help you through those excruciating writers’ blocks?
I have a steadfast rule that I never break, and that is that I must write every single day. Something. If I have to, I get out something I've written before (even a published book) and rewrite a scene from a different pov. In Alitus, I have a scene in which Alitus and Wulf are in a car together. It's in Alitus' pov. In Jawk, which features Wulf (confused yet?), I take the reader back into that scene in a brief flashback, this time from Wulf's pov. What was Wulf seeing when Alitus was seeing Wulf? That change of pov can often springboard an idea that will get me writing again. It's a great tool. If there was one word to describe me that I would pick for myself and know that others would agree with, it would be "dedicated."
9: Dahlia: Behind the scenes Kayelle when the computer is off and your writing is done for the day. What would we find you doing?
Sleeping! My son emailed me a cartoon the other day. When I opened it - there was a dialog box that said: "You have been online for one year. Would you like to log off and get a life?" The options were "Yes" and "Remind me next year."
When I do take time off, I really enjoy the outdoors - but I'm not the sporty type. I like to just bask in the sun and explore around waterfalls, creeks, and rivers. Bubbly water sounds relax me. Canoe - no. Riverbank - yes. :)
10: Dahlia: Out of all of your books which one was your favorite to write and who is your favorite characters? Tell us why?
Oh, gosh. I love them all. Because I'm writing two series that interweave with each other, I deal with the same characters in varying roles. Luc Saint-Cyr is in every book. He's the mastermind behind so much that happens. Empress Rheyn Destoiya is also at least mentioned in all of them. So is Senth. But I have to say that I really adore Khyff. He was abused as a child, sold into terrible slavery, and yet the story of his redemption in For Women Only still makes me cry when I read it. And I wrote the book! Mehfawni Ruh, his heroine, is an incredible person. When I'm writing a new book, I always read back through the previous books to ensure I haven't forgotten details or characters. When I was beginning Jawk, I read through FWO one more time. I still cried at the end, not from sadness but because Khyff's story makes you so glad. It is the best book I've written.
11: Dahlia: As writers we are always trying to grow. Are there any new frontiers in writing that you want to try?
Yes. I want to write non-fiction. A how to on marketing for writers. I created a Yahoo! Group called Marketing for Romance Writers. Not that I'm an expert, but I've done a lot of things and had moderate success, so other writers ask me how I do things. When I realized I was getting a lot of email like that, I figured the best thing to do is tell everyone at once by starting a group. We have free workshops every month on topics like organizing your writing so you can manage chats and author days, how to promo effectively, creating a website, how to manage a blog... you name it. Anyone who is interested should come by and request to be added. I keep it on approval only to prevent spam. The link is
http://groups.yahoo.com/group/MarketingForRomanceWriters/
I'd also like to do an historical, a time travel, and a contemporary. And maybe a pure science fiction story as well.
12: Dahlia: If you could have one hot guy for a day to do your bidding who would it be and what will he be doing?
What a fun question! (Is my husband reading this? LOL) Oh, my my my. The empress has a harem of male pleasure slaves so she can just crook one finger and have any of them she wants. She's like me; she doesn't go for wimps, but wants a man who respects not only her, but also her abilities. You know, as I think about it, that pretty much describes my husband. He's always there for me, supports me 200% and treats me like a queen. As to what he'd be doing... well, that would be giving away secrets.
13: Dahlia: Who are some of your favorite writers? Do you find it hard to get personal time for reading in between writing and building your story line?
I see reading as part of my job as an author. Running out of books to read is like running out of ink in the printer. It's not something I can afford to do. The best writers are good readers. You must read to keep up with your genre, your friends, and your competition.
One of my favorite magazines is Popular Mechanics because it has practical info and lots of futuristic info and trends. I also read Discovery and National Geographic. I have too many favorite writers to name them all, but must say my most recent personal discoveries are Michael Barnette and Denise Rossetti. Both are incredibly gifted.
14: You write m/m stories as well Kayelle. Is it difficult to still give it that sensuality as in writing f/m scenes?
Sensuality is inherently involved in the senses - the ability to hear, feel, taste, touch, smell, and see. Whether it is two males, two females, one of each, or more - the ability to convey sensuality is the true art of the erotica writer. A long time ago, I read that an erotica writer should be as affected by what she is writing as her readers are. Writing a hot book should affect the writer too. Wow - Wulf did just that!
When I wrote Wulf it was in answer to a challenge from Liquid Silver Books. They were creating a new line called Molten Silver that would push boundaries. They asked all of their writers to submit material that was beyond what we would submit to their already lush and sensual erotica line. I'd been playing with the idea that my ultra alpha male in the series (Luc Saint-Cyr) would be bisexual. I wasn't sure whether readers would like finding out that he walked both sides of the fence. Turns out, Wulf is my best selling book, hands down. The adorable hunk Khyff is a closer runner up, but Wulf is well in the lead.
Part of that reason is that Luc is such a man's man. He melts into a puddle around Wulf, whom he absolutely adores, but even when he does he is still the big hot alpha. I've been honored to have Laura Givens do all my covers so far and she captured Luc perfectly on the cover of Wulf. He's a Kelthian, which means he has nearly black skin, and because he's 6'5" tall and built like a god of war, he's an imposing figure. She drew him on his knees with Wulf standing behind him, laughing as he reaches out to borrow Luc's towel in the gym. That picture absolutely captured both of them, frozen in a moment in time. Luc being all aloof and in-charge; Wulf a bundle of laughter and fun. The sensuality of the moment in the book is super-charged. In the book, they're facing one another and Wulf brushes the back of his hand across Luc's skin as he reaches for the towel on his shoulder. The current that arcs between them jolts the reader with its sensuality.
15: Dahlia: Tell us where we can find out more about you any contest or anything else we should know Kayelle?
You wrote "Romance lives forever in Kayelle Allen books" -- which is such a lovely thing to say. I appreciate that, Dahlia. Yes, I do have a contest going on right now. My fun-group, Romance Lives Forever, is growing quickly. We have guest authors frequently, and any author who's a member is welcome to post promos, contest info, and release updates. Once membership reaches certain levels, I'm giving away some great gifts. There are about five planned at different membership levels, including handmade afghans, custom designed organic soaps, gardening baskets and more. To join, go to
http://www.groups.yahoo.com/group/romancelivesforever
This summer, I'm launching a redesigned portion of my website, http://kayelleallen.com . Novel Vision Web Design is creating a custom interface that will mirror my books. When a character logs on to Imperinet in a book, readers will be able to go to the same page and do what the characters do. The Tarthian Empire will come to life. There will be a home page with the empire's tradestandard dates and weather reports, a character blog, cool places to login and read secret info, and my own chat room. I'm having a blast creating all this. Janet E Jones is the owner/designer, and she is a dream to work with. Any writer who is considering a website owes it to him or herself to give Novel Vision a look-see. Because they are all authors, they really understand an author's needs. http://www.novelvisionweb.com
One more fun thing to tell you about - I created a small group called I read Kayelle Allen. http://groups.yahoo.com/group/ireadkayelleallen/ It's only for those who have read at least one of my books and want more detail. For example, I just posted the inside info on how I came up with the popsicle scene in For Women Only where Khyff uses one to... hmm. Maybe I better let readers discover *that* secret on their own. :)
Thank you for inviting me, Dahlia. I had a great time and hope to see you as a guest on Romance Lives Forever very soon.
Romance lives forever in Kayelle Allen books. Visit her in the world she creates and see what juicy fantasies she has in store for you!
Until next week luvvies
Smooches ~*~Dahlia Rose
Today a faublous author is with us today Kayelle Allen! Her books are edgy and exciting and she was gracious enought to answer a few of my question! Enjoy!
Dahlia: Good morning Kayelle! Thanks for being here! First off Tell us how you started on this road to writing?
Oh, boy. I think I was born with a pen in my hand, which must have been awful for my mother. *_* I've always loved writing and had a love affair with words. "How do you spell that?" was my catch phrase growing up. I wanted to know word origins, how they were used, that sort of thing. I was the champion at spelling bees. LOL - but my late mother always wanted to be a published author, and had several rejections -- I think her love passed on to me and inspired me.
2: Dahlia: The Chosen “Alitus” is one of my favorites. Where did the idea behind the book come from?
Oh, thank you! I'm glad to know Alitus has a friend out there. :) His character started out as a walk-on part. I needed an assistant for the Empress in a scene, and soon realized I couldn't keep saying "her assistant". I knew - Destoiya being the hunk-lover she is - that she would have a male secretary she could chase around the desk. One who would make sure she always caught him. When I realized he had to have a name I got worried, because I have this odd ability to completely capture a character once I name them and they tend to take over when that happens. In fact, it's impossible for me to write an un-named character. I don't know how others do it. So - once I came up with the first name Alitus (which came from the sound of "elite") the last name Vivaldi was simple. It's the name of the composer of the Four Seasons - which is beautiful classical music. I'd had a dickens of a time remembering the name Vivaldi and decided that if I named a character after him, the name would stick. Boy did it. :)
Not long after I came up with the character, 9/11 struck. We were suddenly hearing about women in Afghanistan being forced to veil. I've always believed that if a woman chooses to veil, it is to her own honor to do so. Being forced to comply with other's wishes is not. I decided that one day I'd write about a veiled character. Now, those who know me understand that I never take a story where you think it's going. I delight in twisting it to make sure that what you think will happen rarely does. So of course, my veiled character is a man. Why he is veiled, and how, is the true basis of Alitus. He is not your typical alpha hero - Alitus does not sweep a sweet little woman off her feet. Empress Destoiya is anything but that. Alitus stands beside the ruler of an empire as her equal, while remaining her devoted lover and steadfast follower.
3: Dahlia: What current releases do you have for the readers?
I have four books out. Alitus, the most current, takes place five years after the book Wulf. Both are in the Tales of the Chosen series. Chronologically, the books are Wulf, At the Mercy of Her Pleasure, For Women Only, and Alitus. I didn't write them in that order though. Mercy was first, featuring Senth Antonello, who was trying to rescue his brother Khyff. Then I wrote Khyff's book, For Women Only - in which he has to do some saving of his own on Senth's behalf. Both of them were pawns of the Empress in a plot that involved Luc Saint-Cyr, aka the Harbinger, one of the most feared men in the empire. When I started to write my current book in progress, I realized I needed to step back in time and tell the story of how Saint-Cyr and Wulf became lovers. This was fun, because their book takes place when Senth was a teenager, so I got to write the hero of Mercy as a "PITA" kid. What fun that was! Then to complete the story in Women, Alitus needed to have his story told. So now, I have two books to go in the Chosen series, and one more to round out the Antonello brothers before I start on a new set of escapades in the Tarthian Empire. All my books are currently available at http://lsbooks.com I also have a short story available in print in A Time To... the Best of the Lorelei Signal Vol 1, 2006
http://www.lulu.com/content/476194
4: Dahlia: Do you have any upcoming books the readers should look for?
Do I! The next Chosen series book is Jawk, about a Kin hero who is an Alpha among Alphas. You will never forget him. Up to now, Luc Saint-Cyr has been my only Alpha, which he says is because there is only room in any pack for one. Jawk will give literally give him a run for his money. Then comes When I Breathe, which brings back the Antonello boys in a reunion story, and the after that is Bold, the next Chosen book. That one is itching to be told. It's about a synesthete - a person who can hear color and see sound; yeah - read that again - it's exactly what I meant.
I also have two anthologies in the works, and one more being planned. Shayla Kersten, Sienna Black, and I have formed SKS Productions in order to devote our time to an anthology about a forgotten people group in the United States. Imagine being born into a family whose gift is the ability to see, experience, and influence the dreams of others. As this ability increases over the generations, your clan is cast out, forced to shield its powers, to guard its members, and eventually to hide its very existence... We hope to develop this into an anthology, and possibly a series.
5: Dahlia: Your reviews are excellent for your books Kayelle. How did it feel when you got your very first review?
I appreciate you saying that. You're right -- I have had gracious reviews from some excellent sources, and that is extremely gratifying. A friend sent me the link to my first review and told me it was amazing. When I read what they had to say it was like getting a warm hug from a friend. The best part was that I could tell that they grasped the concept of the story and saw the bigger picture I was trying to show. It was a vindication of all the time I spent creating the history, background of the empire, language of the Kin, tradestandard laws... It all came together in my first book, and the readers and reviewers loved it. I couldn't wait to write more.
6: Dahlia: There are many roles we play in this world. Was writing your first love and did you continuously pursue it?
I decided at age 18 that I wanted to be a writer. Then I joined the Navy to see the world. (Um, it's mostly made of water, btw. Especially if you're in the Navy. LOL) Got married. Had 3 kids. Did the homemaker thing till they were in school, then went back to work. The kids grew up, moved out. Suddenly I had time on my hands again. That's when I decided to go back to my first love and started writing again. People are surprised when they find out I have adult children. I've been told I write like I'm in my 20s. Which is kind of neat, because I don't think I've ever really outgrown my childhood. ^_^
7: Dahlia: Are there any scenes in your books you find are difficult to write? Why?
For me, the only difficult ones are the ones I haven't written yet. I have to give myself permission to write badly sometimes, so that I can finish a story. I tell myself I'm just going to get the words on the page and then I can had them over to my critique group and let my crit buddies pick away. What surprises me is they often suggest only a word or two here and there and tell me it doesn't need much changed. Sometimes, if we get our inner editor out of the way we can write more -- fluidly. Does that make sense?
8: Dahlia: What are the things that relax you the most or would help you through those excruciating writers’ blocks?
I have a steadfast rule that I never break, and that is that I must write every single day. Something. If I have to, I get out something I've written before (even a published book) and rewrite a scene from a different pov. In Alitus, I have a scene in which Alitus and Wulf are in a car together. It's in Alitus' pov. In Jawk, which features Wulf (confused yet?), I take the reader back into that scene in a brief flashback, this time from Wulf's pov. What was Wulf seeing when Alitus was seeing Wulf? That change of pov can often springboard an idea that will get me writing again. It's a great tool. If there was one word to describe me that I would pick for myself and know that others would agree with, it would be "dedicated."
9: Dahlia: Behind the scenes Kayelle when the computer is off and your writing is done for the day. What would we find you doing?
Sleeping! My son emailed me a cartoon the other day. When I opened it - there was a dialog box that said: "You have been online for one year. Would you like to log off and get a life?" The options were "Yes" and "Remind me next year."
When I do take time off, I really enjoy the outdoors - but I'm not the sporty type. I like to just bask in the sun and explore around waterfalls, creeks, and rivers. Bubbly water sounds relax me. Canoe - no. Riverbank - yes. :)
10: Dahlia: Out of all of your books which one was your favorite to write and who is your favorite characters? Tell us why?
Oh, gosh. I love them all. Because I'm writing two series that interweave with each other, I deal with the same characters in varying roles. Luc Saint-Cyr is in every book. He's the mastermind behind so much that happens. Empress Rheyn Destoiya is also at least mentioned in all of them. So is Senth. But I have to say that I really adore Khyff. He was abused as a child, sold into terrible slavery, and yet the story of his redemption in For Women Only still makes me cry when I read it. And I wrote the book! Mehfawni Ruh, his heroine, is an incredible person. When I'm writing a new book, I always read back through the previous books to ensure I haven't forgotten details or characters. When I was beginning Jawk, I read through FWO one more time. I still cried at the end, not from sadness but because Khyff's story makes you so glad. It is the best book I've written.
11: Dahlia: As writers we are always trying to grow. Are there any new frontiers in writing that you want to try?
Yes. I want to write non-fiction. A how to on marketing for writers. I created a Yahoo! Group called Marketing for Romance Writers. Not that I'm an expert, but I've done a lot of things and had moderate success, so other writers ask me how I do things. When I realized I was getting a lot of email like that, I figured the best thing to do is tell everyone at once by starting a group. We have free workshops every month on topics like organizing your writing so you can manage chats and author days, how to promo effectively, creating a website, how to manage a blog... you name it. Anyone who is interested should come by and request to be added. I keep it on approval only to prevent spam. The link is
http://groups.yahoo.com/group/MarketingForRomanceWriters/
I'd also like to do an historical, a time travel, and a contemporary. And maybe a pure science fiction story as well.
12: Dahlia: If you could have one hot guy for a day to do your bidding who would it be and what will he be doing?
What a fun question! (Is my husband reading this? LOL) Oh, my my my. The empress has a harem of male pleasure slaves so she can just crook one finger and have any of them she wants. She's like me; she doesn't go for wimps, but wants a man who respects not only her, but also her abilities. You know, as I think about it, that pretty much describes my husband. He's always there for me, supports me 200% and treats me like a queen. As to what he'd be doing... well, that would be giving away secrets.
13: Dahlia: Who are some of your favorite writers? Do you find it hard to get personal time for reading in between writing and building your story line?
I see reading as part of my job as an author. Running out of books to read is like running out of ink in the printer. It's not something I can afford to do. The best writers are good readers. You must read to keep up with your genre, your friends, and your competition.
One of my favorite magazines is Popular Mechanics because it has practical info and lots of futuristic info and trends. I also read Discovery and National Geographic. I have too many favorite writers to name them all, but must say my most recent personal discoveries are Michael Barnette and Denise Rossetti. Both are incredibly gifted.
14: You write m/m stories as well Kayelle. Is it difficult to still give it that sensuality as in writing f/m scenes?
Sensuality is inherently involved in the senses - the ability to hear, feel, taste, touch, smell, and see. Whether it is two males, two females, one of each, or more - the ability to convey sensuality is the true art of the erotica writer. A long time ago, I read that an erotica writer should be as affected by what she is writing as her readers are. Writing a hot book should affect the writer too. Wow - Wulf did just that!
When I wrote Wulf it was in answer to a challenge from Liquid Silver Books. They were creating a new line called Molten Silver that would push boundaries. They asked all of their writers to submit material that was beyond what we would submit to their already lush and sensual erotica line. I'd been playing with the idea that my ultra alpha male in the series (Luc Saint-Cyr) would be bisexual. I wasn't sure whether readers would like finding out that he walked both sides of the fence. Turns out, Wulf is my best selling book, hands down. The adorable hunk Khyff is a closer runner up, but Wulf is well in the lead.
Part of that reason is that Luc is such a man's man. He melts into a puddle around Wulf, whom he absolutely adores, but even when he does he is still the big hot alpha. I've been honored to have Laura Givens do all my covers so far and she captured Luc perfectly on the cover of Wulf. He's a Kelthian, which means he has nearly black skin, and because he's 6'5" tall and built like a god of war, he's an imposing figure. She drew him on his knees with Wulf standing behind him, laughing as he reaches out to borrow Luc's towel in the gym. That picture absolutely captured both of them, frozen in a moment in time. Luc being all aloof and in-charge; Wulf a bundle of laughter and fun. The sensuality of the moment in the book is super-charged. In the book, they're facing one another and Wulf brushes the back of his hand across Luc's skin as he reaches for the towel on his shoulder. The current that arcs between them jolts the reader with its sensuality.
15: Dahlia: Tell us where we can find out more about you any contest or anything else we should know Kayelle?
You wrote "Romance lives forever in Kayelle Allen books" -- which is such a lovely thing to say. I appreciate that, Dahlia. Yes, I do have a contest going on right now. My fun-group, Romance Lives Forever, is growing quickly. We have guest authors frequently, and any author who's a member is welcome to post promos, contest info, and release updates. Once membership reaches certain levels, I'm giving away some great gifts. There are about five planned at different membership levels, including handmade afghans, custom designed organic soaps, gardening baskets and more. To join, go to
http://www.groups.yahoo.com/group/romancelivesforever
This summer, I'm launching a redesigned portion of my website, http://kayelleallen.com . Novel Vision Web Design is creating a custom interface that will mirror my books. When a character logs on to Imperinet in a book, readers will be able to go to the same page and do what the characters do. The Tarthian Empire will come to life. There will be a home page with the empire's tradestandard dates and weather reports, a character blog, cool places to login and read secret info, and my own chat room. I'm having a blast creating all this. Janet E Jones is the owner/designer, and she is a dream to work with. Any writer who is considering a website owes it to him or herself to give Novel Vision a look-see. Because they are all authors, they really understand an author's needs. http://www.novelvisionweb.com
One more fun thing to tell you about - I created a small group called I read Kayelle Allen. http://groups.yahoo.com/group/ireadkayelleallen/ It's only for those who have read at least one of my books and want more detail. For example, I just posted the inside info on how I came up with the popsicle scene in For Women Only where Khyff uses one to... hmm. Maybe I better let readers discover *that* secret on their own. :)
Thank you for inviting me, Dahlia. I had a great time and hope to see you as a guest on Romance Lives Forever very soon.
Romance lives forever in Kayelle Allen books. Visit her in the world she creates and see what juicy fantasies she has in store for you!
Until next week luvvies
Smooches ~*~Dahlia Rose
Saturday, April 7, 2007
Jena Galifany Blogging Today!!
Today Jena Galifany as graciously agreed to answet my questions! Its easter weekend so this is a treat for us all. Happy easter and may the bunny brings you lots of goodies (i.e chocolate creme eggs..yum!)
Dahlia: Hi Jena, you are from Sunny California. Tell us more about you and how you started your writing career?
Hey, Dahlia. Thanks for inviting me. I've lived in California all but the first six weeks of my life, mostly in small towns. We moved a lot when I was in grade school. Because we moved so much, I got to where I just didn't make friends anymore because every time I did, we'd move again. So I wrote stories so I could have friends.
My first complete story was Mystery of Cascade Castle. I wrote it in eighth grade and the teacher, Mrs. Hendrix, loved it. She wanted to keep it but someone stole it from her classroom. Because she encouraged me, I took creative writing. I put writing aside for many years. When I was divorced at the age of thirty, I took another class, writing for children, and still didn't do much with my writing. I wrote a lot of small pieces over the years but did not have enough confidence to try publication.
2: Dahlia: what gave you the ideas behind your ShadowsForge Series?
I love the 80s hair bands. I especially love one bass player from one of those bands. I've watched his career for twenty-five years now and he's wonderful. Fantasy being what it is, I used to write fan fiction for Walt Disney's Zorro and 80s bands but didn't want to continue writing and not get paid for it. So I made up my own band and wrote about them. I had an idea in my head for some time that became ShadowsForge 1: Three Times a Hero. My bass player appeared on VH1 and said, "I wrote it." I love the way he said it. I took those three words and ran with them.
The entertainment industry has so many problems that there is a never-ending cornucopia of ideas to choose from and since I have a five-man band, they take turns dealing with some of those issues.
3: Dahlia: I know you had a release on April 1st could you tell us more about it?
ShadowsForge 3: Retaking America is the third installment in the ShadowsForge series. There is a bit of trouble deciding which woman is with which of the men in the British rock band. Geoff loves Valerie...or maybe he loves Diane. Diane is close with Brian, much to Geoff's dismay. Jordan meets Crystal and is quickly falling in love with her. Crystal is infatuated with Jon from the first night. Jon wouldn't mind a night with Alexis, Ty's wife. It looks like Ty has a go round with Crystal, too. Alexis finds herself in Geoff's sights. It all works out in the end... sort of.
4: Dahlia: Do you have any upcoming books the readers should look for?
At this time, the only contracted book not released is ShadowsForge 4: The Long Way Home that will be released in November. The fourth novel in the ShadowsForge series follows Brian Cummings as a teen and into the current situation as percussionist for ShadowsForge. Brian has been so quiet through most of the series, I felt compelled to write his back-story. It was quite a ride for me.
5: Dahlia: Jena is a married lady so I have to ask. Does your husband's personality appear in any of your leading men when you write?
Steve is the image of a character I wrote in 1979 by the name of Velcon. Tall, dark, strong, and loving. I met Steve in 1989 and was stunned by his similarities with Velcon. It was almost freaky; they are so much alike. We married in 1990 and facets of Steve are in each of my leading men. Steve also helps me when I write myself into a corner. He finds the way out for me. He Is and electrical tech and an ex-roadie so he helps with the technical things that the band deals with. He also co-wrote one of the most romantic moments in Retaking America. He really floored me when he came up with the idea.
6: Dahlia: There are many roles we play in this world. Was writing your first love and did you continuously pursue it?
I wanted to be a writer early on but was not encouraged too much in that direction during my teens and twenties. After I got into my thirties, I really had a drive to be independent and felt that I could do it as a writer. So I began writing again. That was when I wrote the beginning of Her Perfect Man. I suppose you could call writing my first love but it was a long estranged love until the last five or six years. I hope it will be a life-long affair from now on.
7: Dahlia: Are there any scenes in your books you find are difficult to write? Why?
I don't like to write graphic bedroom scenes. What I think would be romantic interlude is probably not what you would thing it is. So I prefer to leave it to the reader's imagination. I prefer to "fade to black".
I had a lot of difficulty in writing the Brighton section of Her Perfect Man because of this. That is the reason it took around fourteen years to write and another two to submit it and an additional two to get it published.. In the ShadowsForge series, I had some slow moment with ShadowsForge 4: The Long Way Home as I was not sure how a particularly violent scene would be received. I wanted it to be worded perfectly and that took time. SF4 will be released in November 2007 so we will have to wait to see if I did it right or not.
8: Dahlia: What are the things that relax you the most or would help you through those excruciating writers’ blocks?
A bit of music: classic rock, Nightwish, or perhaps Trans Siberian Orchestra. A walk with my dog sometimes helps or just contemplating the pictures of the characters involved. That is another benefit of having made the commercials. I have visuals of my characters to look at.
9: Dahlia: Who are some of your favorite writers or what would we find you reading to relax?
I adore early Victoria Holt. I also write book reviews for Novelspot.net so I have discovered many writers that I enjoy. Reviewing is an excellent way to sample new authors and new genres. Mary Martinez is wonderful. I'm just getting into J. H. Bográn. His excerpts sound fabulous. I've bought his book, Treasure Hunt, and can't wait to get into it.
10: Dahlia: Out of all of your books which one was your favorite to write and who are your favorite characters? Tell us why?
ShadowsForge 3: Retaking America was the most fun to write because there are so many situations merging into and out of each other. I had the most fun with one particular scene involving my "first love" character, Ty Synclair. It includes Crystal and it was just so much fun to figure out just how to word it. One of my beta readers was totally upset about it. I struck a nerve and that's what I try to do. Ty Synclair is the most real to me. I've lived with him for about six years now, and he is all the best of my leading men. I can talk to him. He hangs out at chats with me, too. He has his own email addy and joins the chat groups so he can help me out when the conversation slows down. He's based on my favorite bass player, not the real man's life but how I perceive him to be.
11: Dahlia: Where do you see yourself and your writing career in the next few years?
I am hoping that in a short time, I will be able to give up the night job, become a full time writer/editor, and be home with my family like a real wife and mom again. If I can get enough sales, maybe I can be at home for my daughter before she runs off to college in about three more years. I want to have more time with my husband, too.
ShadowsForge 1: Three Times a Hero was a #1 Best Seller. I'm hoping that ShadowsForge 3: Retaking America can be my second #1 Best Seller, with many more to follow.
12: Dahlia: If you could have one hot guy for a day to do your bidding who would it be and what will he be doing?
The only hot guy I want is Steve. He knows what I like and he's great. We'd be just spending time together, which is something that doesn't happen very often any more due to opposing work schedules.
13: Dahlia: Is there any genre that you want to try your hand at writing?
I want to move into inspirational and young adult books. I've been reading a lot of both to get the feel for them. It is so important for there to be good reading material for the 13 to 18 year old crowd. If not, they become illiterate from lack of interest.
14: Dahlia. I see that you are an editor as well. Is it hard to divide your time between editing and writing?
I try to spend Saturday nights doing the editing and Sunday night working on my writing. It's hard to work during the week on either one with the night job. I had a lot of work with getting two books out at the same time so my editing work fell behind. I'm getting it caught up now, though. I would like to acquire a few editing jobs doing manuscripts or websites. A few paid jobs would be appreciated. That would be another step toward getting out of the night job.
15: Dahlia: Tell us where we can find out more about you, any contest or anything else we should know Jena?
My website is http://jenagalifany.bravehost.com and my newsletter group is http://groups.yahoo.com/group/JenaGalifany/ . I'm having a drawing this month in celebration of Ty Synclair's birthday on April 1st and Geoff Richards's birthday on April 27th. Two winners will be drawn from my newsletter group. One will receive a dog tag from Ty and the other from Geoff that they have personally worn. The dog tag says, "Believe in Dreams. ShadowsForge." And the performer's name is beneath the tag line. So jump on over to join my newsletter group before I draw at the end of the month. You will be signing up to receive my newsletter once a month and any special announcements that come in between. Not a discussion group, I will not be flooding your mailbox.
I want to thank everyone who has bought one of my books. Without you, I'd be nothing. You give my life purpose. Hugs to you all.
Dahlia, thank you again for having me here. This was fun.
Guys and dolls that was the author of the Shadow Forge series Jena Galifany! Let her bring you into her imagination through the pages of her books!
Happy Easter everyone! And save one of those chocolate eggs for me!
Smooches ~*~Dahlia Rose
Dahlia: Hi Jena, you are from Sunny California. Tell us more about you and how you started your writing career?
Hey, Dahlia. Thanks for inviting me. I've lived in California all but the first six weeks of my life, mostly in small towns. We moved a lot when I was in grade school. Because we moved so much, I got to where I just didn't make friends anymore because every time I did, we'd move again. So I wrote stories so I could have friends.
My first complete story was Mystery of Cascade Castle. I wrote it in eighth grade and the teacher, Mrs. Hendrix, loved it. She wanted to keep it but someone stole it from her classroom. Because she encouraged me, I took creative writing. I put writing aside for many years. When I was divorced at the age of thirty, I took another class, writing for children, and still didn't do much with my writing. I wrote a lot of small pieces over the years but did not have enough confidence to try publication.
2: Dahlia: what gave you the ideas behind your ShadowsForge Series?
I love the 80s hair bands. I especially love one bass player from one of those bands. I've watched his career for twenty-five years now and he's wonderful. Fantasy being what it is, I used to write fan fiction for Walt Disney's Zorro and 80s bands but didn't want to continue writing and not get paid for it. So I made up my own band and wrote about them. I had an idea in my head for some time that became ShadowsForge 1: Three Times a Hero. My bass player appeared on VH1 and said, "I wrote it." I love the way he said it. I took those three words and ran with them.
The entertainment industry has so many problems that there is a never-ending cornucopia of ideas to choose from and since I have a five-man band, they take turns dealing with some of those issues.
3: Dahlia: I know you had a release on April 1st could you tell us more about it?
ShadowsForge 3: Retaking America is the third installment in the ShadowsForge series. There is a bit of trouble deciding which woman is with which of the men in the British rock band. Geoff loves Valerie...or maybe he loves Diane. Diane is close with Brian, much to Geoff's dismay. Jordan meets Crystal and is quickly falling in love with her. Crystal is infatuated with Jon from the first night. Jon wouldn't mind a night with Alexis, Ty's wife. It looks like Ty has a go round with Crystal, too. Alexis finds herself in Geoff's sights. It all works out in the end... sort of.
4: Dahlia: Do you have any upcoming books the readers should look for?
At this time, the only contracted book not released is ShadowsForge 4: The Long Way Home that will be released in November. The fourth novel in the ShadowsForge series follows Brian Cummings as a teen and into the current situation as percussionist for ShadowsForge. Brian has been so quiet through most of the series, I felt compelled to write his back-story. It was quite a ride for me.
5: Dahlia: Jena is a married lady so I have to ask. Does your husband's personality appear in any of your leading men when you write?
Steve is the image of a character I wrote in 1979 by the name of Velcon. Tall, dark, strong, and loving. I met Steve in 1989 and was stunned by his similarities with Velcon. It was almost freaky; they are so much alike. We married in 1990 and facets of Steve are in each of my leading men. Steve also helps me when I write myself into a corner. He finds the way out for me. He Is and electrical tech and an ex-roadie so he helps with the technical things that the band deals with. He also co-wrote one of the most romantic moments in Retaking America. He really floored me when he came up with the idea.
6: Dahlia: There are many roles we play in this world. Was writing your first love and did you continuously pursue it?
I wanted to be a writer early on but was not encouraged too much in that direction during my teens and twenties. After I got into my thirties, I really had a drive to be independent and felt that I could do it as a writer. So I began writing again. That was when I wrote the beginning of Her Perfect Man. I suppose you could call writing my first love but it was a long estranged love until the last five or six years. I hope it will be a life-long affair from now on.
7: Dahlia: Are there any scenes in your books you find are difficult to write? Why?
I don't like to write graphic bedroom scenes. What I think would be romantic interlude is probably not what you would thing it is. So I prefer to leave it to the reader's imagination. I prefer to "fade to black".
I had a lot of difficulty in writing the Brighton section of Her Perfect Man because of this. That is the reason it took around fourteen years to write and another two to submit it and an additional two to get it published.. In the ShadowsForge series, I had some slow moment with ShadowsForge 4: The Long Way Home as I was not sure how a particularly violent scene would be received. I wanted it to be worded perfectly and that took time. SF4 will be released in November 2007 so we will have to wait to see if I did it right or not.
8: Dahlia: What are the things that relax you the most or would help you through those excruciating writers’ blocks?
A bit of music: classic rock, Nightwish, or perhaps Trans Siberian Orchestra. A walk with my dog sometimes helps or just contemplating the pictures of the characters involved. That is another benefit of having made the commercials. I have visuals of my characters to look at.
9: Dahlia: Who are some of your favorite writers or what would we find you reading to relax?
I adore early Victoria Holt. I also write book reviews for Novelspot.net so I have discovered many writers that I enjoy. Reviewing is an excellent way to sample new authors and new genres. Mary Martinez is wonderful. I'm just getting into J. H. Bográn. His excerpts sound fabulous. I've bought his book, Treasure Hunt, and can't wait to get into it.
10: Dahlia: Out of all of your books which one was your favorite to write and who are your favorite characters? Tell us why?
ShadowsForge 3: Retaking America was the most fun to write because there are so many situations merging into and out of each other. I had the most fun with one particular scene involving my "first love" character, Ty Synclair. It includes Crystal and it was just so much fun to figure out just how to word it. One of my beta readers was totally upset about it. I struck a nerve and that's what I try to do. Ty Synclair is the most real to me. I've lived with him for about six years now, and he is all the best of my leading men. I can talk to him. He hangs out at chats with me, too. He has his own email addy and joins the chat groups so he can help me out when the conversation slows down. He's based on my favorite bass player, not the real man's life but how I perceive him to be.
11: Dahlia: Where do you see yourself and your writing career in the next few years?
I am hoping that in a short time, I will be able to give up the night job, become a full time writer/editor, and be home with my family like a real wife and mom again. If I can get enough sales, maybe I can be at home for my daughter before she runs off to college in about three more years. I want to have more time with my husband, too.
ShadowsForge 1: Three Times a Hero was a #1 Best Seller. I'm hoping that ShadowsForge 3: Retaking America can be my second #1 Best Seller, with many more to follow.
12: Dahlia: If you could have one hot guy for a day to do your bidding who would it be and what will he be doing?
The only hot guy I want is Steve. He knows what I like and he's great. We'd be just spending time together, which is something that doesn't happen very often any more due to opposing work schedules.
13: Dahlia: Is there any genre that you want to try your hand at writing?
I want to move into inspirational and young adult books. I've been reading a lot of both to get the feel for them. It is so important for there to be good reading material for the 13 to 18 year old crowd. If not, they become illiterate from lack of interest.
14: Dahlia. I see that you are an editor as well. Is it hard to divide your time between editing and writing?
I try to spend Saturday nights doing the editing and Sunday night working on my writing. It's hard to work during the week on either one with the night job. I had a lot of work with getting two books out at the same time so my editing work fell behind. I'm getting it caught up now, though. I would like to acquire a few editing jobs doing manuscripts or websites. A few paid jobs would be appreciated. That would be another step toward getting out of the night job.
15: Dahlia: Tell us where we can find out more about you, any contest or anything else we should know Jena?
My website is http://jenagalifany.bravehost.com and my newsletter group is http://groups.yahoo.com/group/JenaGalifany/ . I'm having a drawing this month in celebration of Ty Synclair's birthday on April 1st and Geoff Richards's birthday on April 27th. Two winners will be drawn from my newsletter group. One will receive a dog tag from Ty and the other from Geoff that they have personally worn. The dog tag says, "Believe in Dreams. ShadowsForge." And the performer's name is beneath the tag line. So jump on over to join my newsletter group before I draw at the end of the month. You will be signing up to receive my newsletter once a month and any special announcements that come in between. Not a discussion group, I will not be flooding your mailbox.
I want to thank everyone who has bought one of my books. Without you, I'd be nothing. You give my life purpose. Hugs to you all.
Dahlia, thank you again for having me here. This was fun.
Guys and dolls that was the author of the Shadow Forge series Jena Galifany! Let her bring you into her imagination through the pages of her books!
Happy Easter everyone! And save one of those chocolate eggs for me!
Smooches ~*~Dahlia Rose
Friday, March 30, 2007
The Dahlia Rose Update!
Well my lovelies. Spring has sprung. I am going to be moving this weekend. A concept I do not love to do. Oh how I wish I could wake up tomorrow morning and everything be moved and in its perfect place! (yeah we don't have moving fairies do we? LOL). I have endeavored to get everything moved and put away by Sunday afternoon. Wish me luck!
On the writing front my love lost love found story called "An Eternal Flame" was contracted by MGP! Woo Hoo. It is s story of Simone who lost her love (a firefighter) when the towers fell on September 11th. His bestfriend Julian promised to take care of her and now he has fallen in love with her to. Even though five years has passed Simone still grieves. Will Julian be able to heal her borken hreat and show her love can still bloom?
I just finished "Of Gods & One Woman" and has sent it out for submission. It is my contemporary version of a greek god love story. Ares God of war knows that mortals have forgotten about the days when gods ruled. He is tired to sitting on the sidelines and watching the battles go one without him. He has been watching Sasha Green, she is a modern day crime fighter who helps the inncent the best she can. But one night she is killed and Ares begs a favor from his brother Hades to give her back her life. What does Sasha pay in this deal? She has to let Ares fight side by side with her and oh yes! he wants her to be his lover. This book is filled with hot erotica and sensuality and love. When Ares figures out he has feelings for Sasha he goes a bit balisitc Sasha has a fire cracker personality and Ares power means nothing to her. Plus Discordia Goddess of mischief is Ares ex- lover and none to happy that he has feelings for a mortal. she has revenge planned and it will not be pretty. Wish me luck and hopefully I'll have a contract for this very soon.
"The Collette Saga" is my vampire trilogy and the who series had been contracted by Star Dust Press. It is of sisters born as vampires, the only ones ever born from a vampire mother. from the time of their birth, their destiny has been written. Sola, Luna and Willa are three hundred years old this year and they are the only ones who can find the three pieces of the Lazurus Amulet. Each piece alone can allow the vampire who wears it to walk in the daylight. Together the amulet is the most powerful thing on this earth. They have to find it before the ultimate of evil vampires Carthos want to find it for him self so he can fill the world with carnage. The sisters has been chased from birth, humans who know vampires exist would rather see them dead before the amulet fall into the undead's head. Vampires want them to find it so that they can take it from them and walk the world. Hunted from both sides the vamperious ladies have to each turn a companion to help them find the amulet. Will they succeed in thier quest. In the Collette Saga book one is called "The Heart of Sola. Look for it coming soon from Star Dust Press!
And do you like "Coffee sex and a little bit of the paranormal" well that is the theme of "The Midnight Muses". A group of writers from Charlotte NC that I am part of. Along with Sabrina Luna, Crymsyn R. Hart and Eliza Gayle we formed this group to promote in our area and hopefully soon you shall see us in a book store near you! We get together for coffee and a whole lots of chatting." These ladies are excellent writers and I am happy to be in such wonderful company. Want to know more about us? Well friend us at our myspace site http://www.myspace.com/themidnightmuses
We'll see you there!!
Well my groovy cats, That is all of my updates for now.
Remeber live life in love and love the life you live!
Smooches
Dahlia Rose
On the writing front my love lost love found story called "An Eternal Flame" was contracted by MGP! Woo Hoo. It is s story of Simone who lost her love (a firefighter) when the towers fell on September 11th. His bestfriend Julian promised to take care of her and now he has fallen in love with her to. Even though five years has passed Simone still grieves. Will Julian be able to heal her borken hreat and show her love can still bloom?
I just finished "Of Gods & One Woman" and has sent it out for submission. It is my contemporary version of a greek god love story. Ares God of war knows that mortals have forgotten about the days when gods ruled. He is tired to sitting on the sidelines and watching the battles go one without him. He has been watching Sasha Green, she is a modern day crime fighter who helps the inncent the best she can. But one night she is killed and Ares begs a favor from his brother Hades to give her back her life. What does Sasha pay in this deal? She has to let Ares fight side by side with her and oh yes! he wants her to be his lover. This book is filled with hot erotica and sensuality and love. When Ares figures out he has feelings for Sasha he goes a bit balisitc Sasha has a fire cracker personality and Ares power means nothing to her. Plus Discordia Goddess of mischief is Ares ex- lover and none to happy that he has feelings for a mortal. she has revenge planned and it will not be pretty. Wish me luck and hopefully I'll have a contract for this very soon.
"The Collette Saga" is my vampire trilogy and the who series had been contracted by Star Dust Press. It is of sisters born as vampires, the only ones ever born from a vampire mother. from the time of their birth, their destiny has been written. Sola, Luna and Willa are three hundred years old this year and they are the only ones who can find the three pieces of the Lazurus Amulet. Each piece alone can allow the vampire who wears it to walk in the daylight. Together the amulet is the most powerful thing on this earth. They have to find it before the ultimate of evil vampires Carthos want to find it for him self so he can fill the world with carnage. The sisters has been chased from birth, humans who know vampires exist would rather see them dead before the amulet fall into the undead's head. Vampires want them to find it so that they can take it from them and walk the world. Hunted from both sides the vamperious ladies have to each turn a companion to help them find the amulet. Will they succeed in thier quest. In the Collette Saga book one is called "The Heart of Sola. Look for it coming soon from Star Dust Press!
And do you like "Coffee sex and a little bit of the paranormal" well that is the theme of "The Midnight Muses". A group of writers from Charlotte NC that I am part of. Along with Sabrina Luna, Crymsyn R. Hart and Eliza Gayle we formed this group to promote in our area and hopefully soon you shall see us in a book store near you! We get together for coffee and a whole lots of chatting." These ladies are excellent writers and I am happy to be in such wonderful company. Want to know more about us? Well friend us at our myspace site http://www.myspace.com/themidnightmuses
We'll see you there!!
Well my groovy cats, That is all of my updates for now.
Remeber live life in love and love the life you live!
Smooches
Dahlia Rose
Friday, March 23, 2007
Its Springtime and KL Bjork!
The birds are singing, the sky is blue, the flowers are blooming and that creepy little bunny is getting ready for its Easter to hop to hide colored egges for the kiddies.... Happy Spring time bloggers! What could be better that an interview with KL Bjork to celebrate the begining of new life and love. we all know her and love her books so read on and se what she has to say!
Dahlia: She brings us fantasy and love on so many different levels. Today we have K.L Bjork in our interview chair today! Welcome K.L! Tell us how you came into the world of writing romance?
Hi Dahlia, thanks for having me here. I just kind of happened into writing. I discovered romance a few years ago when I read Christine Feehan’s Dark Magic and instantly fell in love with this genre and read as much as I could. When finally I had read all my favorite authors releases, I decided to pick up the pen myself. I found a wonderful writing site, www.writing.com, where I met a lot of other aspiring authors. They helped me reached a higher level with my writing and I learned a lot about erotic romance from them. They were very encouraging and helpful. It’s wonderful to find such a place. Since I’ve started writing I can’t stop now and I love it!
2: Dahlia: Your alter ego is Midnyte Dupree. How did you come up with this unique pen name?
LOL It’s kind of a boring story really. I was on my way to the grocery store and going over character names for upcoming stories. Midnyte Dupree jumped out at me and after talking with a few friends I decided to go with it for myself. I think it’s sexy, exotic and unique. Hopefully it will stick in readers minds too.
3: Dahlia: What current releases do you have now?
Currently, I just have two stories available. Both are at Silk’s Vault under K.L. Bjork. Fight for Love and Bonded are set in the same world with vampires, werewolves and mystical maidens.
4: Dahlia: What other releases do you have available for the readers. Could you give us a short blurb about them?
Unfortunately, I don’t have any other stories available now, but I had a vampire series out last year that did really well. Now it’s getting ‘revamped’ (LOL) with possibly some new scenes added for a rerelease later this year. In My Hands, Vampire Christmas and a brand new story Thorn of a Rose will all be out starting in October.
Here is the blurb for the first story in the series:
In My Hands blurb: He was sent to make sure the Vampire Queen was murdered and to recover the Elixir that would restore his kind back to their gloriousness. He endured years of training and sexual restraint in order to become the top assassin. He is on the hunt for the Elixir of Life. Meanwhile, Micah and Sasha are vampire servants to the Queen. When she is murdered they believe their lives are coming to an end also, but the Queen has left them one special gift and a mission.
7: Dahlia: Do you have a routine your regimen you follow when you are writing? Or do you just relax and let the words come to you?
******
Dahlia: She brings us fantasy and love on so many different levels. Today we have K.L Bjork in our interview chair today! Welcome K.L! Tell us how you came into the world of writing romance?
Hi Dahlia, thanks for having me here. I just kind of happened into writing. I discovered romance a few years ago when I read Christine Feehan’s Dark Magic and instantly fell in love with this genre and read as much as I could. When finally I had read all my favorite authors releases, I decided to pick up the pen myself. I found a wonderful writing site, www.writing.com, where I met a lot of other aspiring authors. They helped me reached a higher level with my writing and I learned a lot about erotic romance from them. They were very encouraging and helpful. It’s wonderful to find such a place. Since I’ve started writing I can’t stop now and I love it!
2: Dahlia: Your alter ego is Midnyte Dupree. How did you come up with this unique pen name?
LOL It’s kind of a boring story really. I was on my way to the grocery store and going over character names for upcoming stories. Midnyte Dupree jumped out at me and after talking with a few friends I decided to go with it for myself. I think it’s sexy, exotic and unique. Hopefully it will stick in readers minds too.
3: Dahlia: What current releases do you have now?
Currently, I just have two stories available. Both are at Silk’s Vault under K.L. Bjork. Fight for Love and Bonded are set in the same world with vampires, werewolves and mystical maidens.
4: Dahlia: What other releases do you have available for the readers. Could you give us a short blurb about them?
Unfortunately, I don’t have any other stories available now, but I had a vampire series out last year that did really well. Now it’s getting ‘revamped’ (LOL) with possibly some new scenes added for a rerelease later this year. In My Hands, Vampire Christmas and a brand new story Thorn of a Rose will all be out starting in October.
Here is the blurb for the first story in the series:
In My Hands blurb: He was sent to make sure the Vampire Queen was murdered and to recover the Elixir that would restore his kind back to their gloriousness. He endured years of training and sexual restraint in order to become the top assassin. He is on the hunt for the Elixir of Life. Meanwhile, Micah and Sasha are vampire servants to the Queen. When she is murdered they believe their lives are coming to an end also, but the Queen has left them one special gift and a mission.
7: Dahlia: Do you have a routine your regimen you follow when you are writing? Or do you just relax and let the words come to you?
I don’t have a consistent schedule that I stick too. It’s hard sometimes to be able to write everyday, because I have two small children and a full time job. I do write whenever an opportunity comes up. Sometimes it’s an hour on my lunch break or 15 or 20 minutes here and there.
8: Dahlia: Do you write full time/If not what else does KL Bork do?
8: Dahlia: Do you write full time/If not what else does KL Bork do?
No, I don’t write full time, but I am aspiring to do that in a few years. My characters are almost demanding it now. LOL Right now, I work at a telecommunications company as an analyst. It’s pretty technical and I love to leave that behind and dip into my creative side when I write.
9: Dahlia: Are there any scenes in your books you find are difficult to write/ if yes could you explain why?
This is funny, but I do find it hard to write the sex scenes. I want to make sure that everything sounds real and make sure the emotion gets carried across the pages. Writing the story it is often hard to feel the emotion as you write it. Although, my upcoming story Finding Her Place (available at Twilight Fantasies) made me cry while I wrote part of it.
10: Dahlia: What are some of your favorite things in life? Foods, colors etc? What will we find you doing to relax?
9: Dahlia: Are there any scenes in your books you find are difficult to write/ if yes could you explain why?
This is funny, but I do find it hard to write the sex scenes. I want to make sure that everything sounds real and make sure the emotion gets carried across the pages. Writing the story it is often hard to feel the emotion as you write it. Although, my upcoming story Finding Her Place (available at Twilight Fantasies) made me cry while I wrote part of it.
10: Dahlia: What are some of your favorite things in life? Foods, colors etc? What will we find you doing to relax?
Oh man, I absolutely love pretzels and chocolate or popcorn and coke. LOL My favorite color is purple. Purple is such a magical color and I’ve always been drawn to things that color and over time I just adopted it.
To relax, I read. I absolutely LOVE to read paranormal stories. I enjoy the way worlds and characters can transport me away from all the humdrum of my normal life.
11: Dahlia: Are there any coming soon titles we should look for? Would you share a short blurb?
To relax, I read. I absolutely LOVE to read paranormal stories. I enjoy the way worlds and characters can transport me away from all the humdrum of my normal life.
11: Dahlia: Are there any coming soon titles we should look for? Would you share a short blurb?
Yes, 2007 is going to be a busy year. Finding Her Place will be available July 4th from Twilight Fantasies. (www.twilightfantasiespublications.com) I believe this will be my next release.
Here is a quick blurb:
The war is over and Cameron Cabot no longer knows who she is. Her life was enveloped and consumed by the fight, but suddenly things have changed. Instead of fighting creatures wanting her planet, Cameron is now fighting the urge to lay claim to two men who believe she is there mate. Has Cameron found her new assignment in the arms of a Noah and Mars? Yes, if a little mischievous spirit has anything to say about it.
12: Dahlia: Your books are filled with fantasy KL. Who would you pick to play your favorite character of one of your books if it was turned into a movie?
Shawn Connery as the King in Fight for Love and Bonded. The actor who plays Henri in Blood Ties (on Lifetime). He’s a new actor (or new to me) and my goodness, the man is sexy. I would have him playing Collin in Bonded. Collin is probably my favorite Hero so far out of my stories.
13: Dahlia: What are your aspirations for your writing career this year?
I just want to make sure I write quality stories that readers will enjoy. I also want to try to get my name out there to the public more. It’s hard to promo and write too, but I know it’s part of the game.
I hope to write the last story in my Elixir series and also write the next story after Witch (which is contracted with MGP, no release date yet).
14: Dahlia: : If you could have one hot guy for a day to do your bidding who would it be and what will he be doing?
Here is a quick blurb:
The war is over and Cameron Cabot no longer knows who she is. Her life was enveloped and consumed by the fight, but suddenly things have changed. Instead of fighting creatures wanting her planet, Cameron is now fighting the urge to lay claim to two men who believe she is there mate. Has Cameron found her new assignment in the arms of a Noah and Mars? Yes, if a little mischievous spirit has anything to say about it.
12: Dahlia: Your books are filled with fantasy KL. Who would you pick to play your favorite character of one of your books if it was turned into a movie?
Shawn Connery as the King in Fight for Love and Bonded. The actor who plays Henri in Blood Ties (on Lifetime). He’s a new actor (or new to me) and my goodness, the man is sexy. I would have him playing Collin in Bonded. Collin is probably my favorite Hero so far out of my stories.
13: Dahlia: What are your aspirations for your writing career this year?
I just want to make sure I write quality stories that readers will enjoy. I also want to try to get my name out there to the public more. It’s hard to promo and write too, but I know it’s part of the game.
I hope to write the last story in my Elixir series and also write the next story after Witch (which is contracted with MGP, no release date yet).
14: Dahlia: : If you could have one hot guy for a day to do your bidding who would it be and what will he be doing?
Right now my obsession is with Henri from Blood Ties. I’ve watched the show once and wow, he plays such a sexy vampire. The way his hair brushes his collar and the way his eye turn all black when he gets upset. Sigh.
I might just have him stand around all day playing a vampire for me. LOL So I could look and admire. J
15: Dahlia: can you tall reader where they can find out more about you and your books?
I might just have him stand around all day playing a vampire for me. LOL So I could look and admire. J
15: Dahlia: can you tall reader where they can find out more about you and your books?
Yes, I sure can. You can find Fight for Love and Bonded right now at www.silksvault.com. Your readers can also chat with me at http://groups.yahoo.com/group/midnyte_dupree_books and I’m also part of a group with Jade Buchanan and Melinda Barron at http://groups.yahoo.com/group/Eclectic_Erotic_Sirens. I would also love to talk with readers on myspace at www.myspace.com/author_klbjork.
I hope everyone watches out for Finding Her Place coming out at Twilight Fantasies Publications on July 4th!!
Thanks so much Dahlia for this interview! I had a lot of fun!
I hope everyone watches out for Finding Her Place coming out at Twilight Fantasies Publications on July 4th!!
Thanks so much Dahlia for this interview! I had a lot of fun!
KL Bjork writing as Midnyte Dupree everyone! This lady brings fantasy, sexuality and love to life in her books. You can never read just one. You will always be back for more!
See ya next week luvvies!
Smooches
Dahlia Rose
See ya next week luvvies!
Smooches
Dahlia Rose
Nichle Nighte ready for thr writing world....
I had the opportunity to meet a new writer*Nichole Nighte* currently unpublished but full of wonderful ideas. She wanted everyone to see a little bit of what she can do and I posted an excerpt of her book on the blog today! I can see that she will be one of the up and coming new writers very soon... Take a look at what she has for us today!
Smooches
Dahlia
Reading my first romance novel left me like a blank sheet of paper, very empty. It seemed like it took forever for the plot to thicken and the excitement to hit a high. As I bitterly read "the end" I thought to myself "you could have done a better job than that". As I grew, so did my creativity and my ideas for a good romance novel.
My style of writing is one that I personally created; but like most things people don't understand, it has not been embraced. My romance novels are exciting from the beginning of the book to the end; without lacking interest and/or a good plot. I also believe a little romance needs a little laughter. In my book "Choices" your attention is kept from beginning to end.
The story line takes place in Orlando, Florida and like most young women coming out of a relationship, we tend to be vunerable when we think we have found Mr. Right all over again. We don't think that the decisions we make have consequences. We live for that day, that moment; not realizing that the people around us will be affected whether positvely or negatively.
Below is a few paragraphs selected from Choices, enjoy.
CHOICES
“DaRien, get up, right now! You have less than an hour to get dressed and get to work.”
“Payton, please don’t start this morning.”
“You want me to start after they fire you?”
“Darn I almost forgot about the arena, it’s my first day.”
“DaRien, you are going to learn the hard way.”
“I’ll be ready in a minute Payton.”
“You need to be to work at least fifteen minutes early to make a good impression.”
I immediately jumped out of bed, showered and put on a pair of blue slacks and a nice light blue blouse, I threw my hair in a neat pony tail, and grabbed my sensible shoes. I was very excited because this was my first job since I moved to Orlando. My excitement turned to nervousness as I thought about working around NBA players. Even though my looks allowed me the pleasure of being with any man of my choosing, I did not desire to fall in love again. Payton is always telling me that, “Although you are not running around in the streets you’re not running for the Lord either.” I did not mind the advice, but every since Payton gave her life to Christ she has been a thorn in my side. She nags me when I go to the clubs, she doesn’t allow me to drink wine or listen to my kind of music in her house. She’s always saying, “when you give your life to Jesus you need to live a certain way.” From what I’ve seen at the clubs and on Sunday mornings when I did go to church; I couldn’t tell the difference.
Payton dropped me off at the arena and without delay I went to Mrs. Winters, office and waited to be invited in.
“Come in.”
“Good morning Mrs. Winters, I’m DaRien Washington.”
“Yes, your fifteen minutes early I like that, come have a seat.”
I sat down tentatively ready to begin my workday and thought Payton would be gloating if she knew her advise had come to roost.
“DaRien before we get started I’m going to give you a tour of the arena.”
I thought to myself “I’m glad I wore my practical shoes.” I innocently followed Mrs. Winters down a lengthy hallway until we came to a set of double doors. Before she opened the doors she gave me a speech on how not to get mixed up with sin. Then she continued explaining that trouble lurked behind these doors. When she finally opened the doors I thought “hmm”, because all I saw were the Orlando Bandits team practicing and running drills.
“Mrs. Winters are you sure this is trouble?”
“I’m warning you DaRien stay clear or you will have to suffer the consequences.”
Mrs. Winters showed me the cafeteria, and then she took me to the security booth to get an electronic key pass for the parking deck. The tour lasted about thirty minutes, but it felt longer. When it was finally over Mrs. Winters took me to what I later found out was my office. She gave me a stack of papers to fill out as she informed me on what my job duties included. The job seemed simple enough I just hoped with my track record I would not blow it.
By the time I finished filling out the paper work it was lunchtime. I was headed to the cafeteria, but Mrs. Winters insisted that I have lunch with her. I figured anything for free; unknown to me at that time Mrs. Winters invited her nephew Evan as well. Evan stood about six feet five inches; he was caramel in color, with wavy jet-black hair, and a body that did not miss putting in time with free weights.
“DaRien this is my nephew Evan, Evan this is DaRien.”
“Nice to meet you DaRien.”
“Same here.”
“Well if you two will excuse me I have to go to the little girls room.”
“DaRien, how do you like the job so far?”
“I can’t say, I really haven’t done anything, but fill out paper work.”
“I hope this won’t embarrass you, but you are very beautiful.”
“Thanks,” I said as I bit into a slice of pizza.
“Are you from around here?”
“No, and from your accent I can tell you aren’t either.”
“I was born here, but when my father died my mom moved back to Cuba. After her death a few years ago I moved back and now I live with my uncle who is the owner of the Orlando Bandits.”
“So how does that make you related to Mrs. Winters, she is black.”
“My mother was Cuban and my father a man of color. Mrs. Winters is my aunt on my father’s side of the family and the owner is my mother’s step brother.”
“Oh,” I said as I nervously grabbed the unopened two-liter bottle of soda. In my haste I knocked the bottle on the floor and fumbled to pick it up. After recovering the soda I sat it on the desk and without thinking opened it. Why did I do that I don’t know. The next thing I remember outside of looking like a fool; was soda spraying in my face and all over my clothes. When the soda ceased from squirting all over me so did my screams.
“DaRien, are you okay?” Evan asked as a grin came on his face.
Wiping my face with a paper napkin I replied, “Yes, I just feel like a fool.”
“You shouldn’t we all have our unforgettable moments,” then he helped me remove the soda from my face.
Looking into his eyes my body began to tingle as he leaned in toward me. Then Mrs. Winters came running in, and there was a distinguished looking gentleman with her.
“Is everything okay?”
“Yes, Mrs. Winters I just lost control of the soda.”
“DaRien put my jacket on so you can cover yourself.”
I looked down then turned around in haste, you could see through my blouse and my bra, I felt so x-rated. I reached behind me so Evan could hand me his jacket and once I got situated I turned around being even more embarrassed.
“DaRien, this is Carmine Santiago, the owner of the Bandits.”
“Nice to meet you, but why do you seem familiar to me. What’s your mother’s name?”
“My mother and father died when I was three, my aunt Naomi raised me.”
“Sorry, to hear that, but its something about you that reminds me of someone I knew a long time ago.”
“Mrs. Winters if you don’t mind can I call it a day and continue on tomorrow?”
“I don’t have a problem with that, do you have a way home?”
“No, my car is not running and with my first check I’m going to put it in the shop.”
“I’ll give the lovely lady a ride home,” Even replied.
“Wow,” I said as Evan escorted me to his vehicle.
Evan drove a midnight blue Lexus jeep with all the extras: custom made rims, blue leather interior, and a double sunroof. Evan had plenty to say and a short amount of time to say it. By the time we reached my driveway I knew almost all I needed to know about him and he had no clue on what I was like. After inviting Evan in, I made my way to my room to shower and change. I yelled to Evan, “just give me about five minutes to change.”
“Thanks, Evan here’s your jacket.”
“I don’t have to be anywhere soon.”
Oh, okay, how about a movie?”
While watching the movie I could feel Evan’s eyes on me, which made me tenser than before.
“Why are you starring at me?”
“That obvious?”
“Yes.”
“DaRien, I don’t know what it is about you, but I want to get to know you better. The Bandits are throwing a private party at DJ’s, would you like to go with me?”
“When is the party?”
“Next Thursday at ten.”
“What’s the attire for the evening?”
“Casual to dressy and please don’t come half stepping. You have to come correct when you are on my arm.”
“What do you mean by that?”
“I mean if you don’t look good, I don’t look good and I have to look good.”
“I think maybe you need to take your highly conceited self on home, because being here might be beneath you.”
Evan looked at me strangely, “you have a mouth on you, and I’m going to have to fix that. My woman knows her place.”
“I’m not your woman. And from the looks of it I will never be and I’ll take a rain check.”
Evan grabbed me, “I don’t take no for an answer and when I come to pick you up Thursday you better be here and ready, do I make myself clear?”
“NO”, I’m not going and that is that, you don’t scare me now get out.”
“I’m leaving, but next time you are going to feel me.”
“There won’t be a next time.”
As he left he lightly tapped my face, “we’ll see, we’ll see,” he stated as he walked to his jeep laughing.
The days flew by fast as I learned the ends and outs of my job. I had not met any one who could take my mind off Dontay until today. As I sat in the cafeteria minding my own business I heard his voice. Looking up I saw a chocolate skyscraper with a smile that lit up a room and eyes that could entice you right out of your clothes. I tried not to stare but I was like a deer caught in the headlights of an oncoming vehicle.
“It’s not nice to gawk.”
“I’m sorry are you talking to me?”
“Yes I am, I know I look good and everything, but if you are going to look intently at least close your mouth.”
“You can’t be serious?” “I’m not, I’m Malcolm and you must be all into me.”
“I got up and walked away.”
Getting back to my office I could not get Malcolm out of my mind. As I pondered on when I would see him again there was a knock at my office door.
“Come in.”
“What time shall I pick you up Thursday?”
“I told you “no.”
“I want to apologize for my behavior and I came to beg for your forgiveness.”
“I forgive you, but I’m not down with being a battered woman.”
“It won’t happen again, I promise now will you please come with me to the party Thursday?”
“Yes, but if you act a fool on me again and I’ll have to show you what I’m working with.”
Evan offered to drive me home and I gladly accepted, because as usual Payton was out doing something for one of her church members, which meant she forgot about me again.
Finally, it was Thursday and I could not wait to get home. The mechanic was almost finished with my car; they were waiting on a part to come in from overseas. I don’t know why since I have a Ford. I unbelievingly called Payton and to my surprise she would be able to come and pick me up.
“Payton, I know you don’t think I appreciate the little things you do for me, but I do.”
“That’s nice to know DaRien, I’m glad to be of service.”
I handed Payton an envelope.
“What’s this?”
“Its five hundred dollars for you, I’m making my own money now and its time I repaid the favors.”
“That’s nice of you, but are you sure?”
“Yes.”
After convincing Payton to take the money, the ride home was filled with silence. Payton and I use to communicate well with each other, but lately dead silence has filled our environment. I know its because she is saved and I’m not. Pulling into the driveway Payton asked me if I had any plans and if not would I like to go with her to a revival they were having at the church. I informed her that I had other plans and to my amazement she left my “no” at being “no”.
Getting dressed I could not help but think if Malcolm would be at this gathering and if he was, did he bring a date? I must admit that I looked exceptionally glamorous tonight. My skin seemed to shine with radiance and my green eyes had an extra sparkle. While waiting for Evan, Payton gave me a lecture on tithing. Did I want to hear what she had to say? “No.” Did I sit and listen anyway? “Yes.” Thank goodness Evan pulled up when he did, because Payton was actually boring me to death with her Christian talk.
Chapter 2
I did not wait for Evan to knock on the door or blow the horn. Before he could even turn the car off I was standing on the passenger side of his jeep.
“DaRien, you look beautiful, I’m impressed.”
“Thank you, I did not have to try hard, it comes naturally when you are this gorgeous.”
“Slow your roll my conceited friend, it takes more than looks to make it these days.”
“Maybe so, but that rule does not apply to me.”
“Whatever, lets go, before we’re late.”
“”What I have to open my own door?”
“Sorry about that, let me get it for you.”
I thought to myself if this was Dontay I wouldn’t have to ask. As I enjoyed the scenery I could hear Evan faintly bragging about himself. After five minutes into his conversation I blocked him out and my mind took me back to my last night with Dontay.
It was the night before Dontay and I were to go on our honeymoon.
“Dontay, I love you.” “I love you too baby girl, but we need to get some rest if we are going to Las Vegas.”
“You know I can’t go to sleep unless I have some ice cream.”
“I forgot to get some.” “Its still early, go to the store and get me some, I’ll make it worth your while.”
“That’s what you say, then when I come back with the ice cream you will be sound asleep.”
“You’re right I can wait until tomorrow, Dontay.”
“No if my baby girl wants ice cream now or three o’clock in the morning she’s going to have it.”
“That’s one of the reasons why I love you so much.”
“Earth to DaRien.”
“What, I’m listening.”
“No you are not, because if you were you would have answered my question by now.”
“I’m sorry my mind drifted for a minute.”
“I hope you keep in mind what I’ve said.”
Who knew what Evan was talking about? During the entire conversation I was enjoying memories of my past and it made the present seem so uninteresting. After Evan parked his jeep, I patiently waited for him to escort me out on the passenger side, but to my dismay he proceeded into the building as if he was unaware that I was not on his arm. By this time I was somewhat frustrated, so I let myself out and hastily joined Evan at the door. Before we entered I politely motioned Evan to the side so I could have a few words with him.
“What is your problem?”
“What are you talking about DaRien?”
“Look I may not be all that to you, but I am a lady and you need to start treating me like one.” “Please, forgive me my mind kicked into business mode.”
“And that means what to me?”
“I’m not here for just play, I have some work to do also.”
“If that is the case maybe you should have come by yourself.”
“Maybe.”
Before I could get another word in Evan rudely walked away. I don’t know if this was his way of treating women he thought needed to be trained or if he was just obnoxious like that. At this point it didn’t matter, because I followed him like a lost puppy. I felt like I did not have a choice, because I was in a place surrounded by strangers.
Entering the hotel ballroom I was inundated with awe. The upper crust, high society, rich and the famous filled the extravagantly decorated halls of the hotel. I felt somewhat underdressed, but as I watched the people passing by me going in either direction I became more comfortable with my attire. I lost Evan in the crowd so I made myself comfortable on a near by barstool.
“Can I get you something to drink miss?”
“It depends on how much it’s going to cost.” The bartender laughed, “it must be your first time, all the drinks are free.”
“In that case I’ll have a Zima with a twist of lemon.”
“Coming right up.”
As I patiently waited for my drink I scanned the room to find at least one familiar face, hopefully Mrs. Winters, but due to the abundance of people I failed at my task.
“Here you go miss.”
“Thank you,” I said as I reached for my drink.
Its amazing how a person can be in a crowd of people and feel alone, so I took myself back to a time when I was happiest.
“I love you to DaRien, I’ll be back in a bit.”
“Wait a minute, I want to go with you.”
“No, it’s not a good idea.” “That’s why I want to go, please.”
“Okay, get dressed, I’ll be waiting in the car.”
As I put my clothes on I thought about our trip to Las Vegas, I wanted to honeymoon in the Bahamas, but when a trip is all expenses paid for who can complain. I could not stop from smiling as I dressed. Before I put my shoes on I heard gunshots, which wasn’t strange in this part of town. I quickly made my way down stairs to Dontay’s car, but there was no sign of him. As I walked around to the driver’s side of the car what I saw made my heart stop. Dontay was lying in a pool of blood.
It felt as if I was in some bad dream, like I was trying to wake up but I couldn’t. Slowly with tears in my eyes I walked over to him and checked his pulse, he was barely alive.
“Dontay, baby can you hear me.” In a low and strained voice he said, “I love you baby girl.” “I love you too, just hold on,” I said crying franticly.
A crowd began to gather, but all I could see was the love of my life slipping away from me. I guess someone called 911, because I could hear sirens moving closer and closer. I leaned in to Dontay and kissed him as he took his final breath. When the medical team through the sheet over his face I knew then that it was all over and my life would not been the same. Each day I wake up with the guilt that if it weren’t for me Dontay would still be alive.
I could feel the tears trying to emerge from my eyes as I regained my composure and remembered where I was. Then I gulped down my Zima and asked for another. I knew drowning my sorrows in alcohol would not help, but it sure would make me forget not forever, but just for a little bit.
“You make the evening look so lovely.”
“Thank you,” I said as I turned around to see who was paying me the compliment, it was Malcolm.
“I might be wrong, but your face is jacked up, are you okay?”
“I’ll be fine, a few more of these, (I took a sip of my drink) and I’ll be right before you know it.”
“I hope you didn’t drive.” “No, I came with Evan, who apparently doesn’t remember he brought me. I have not seen him in the last hour.”
“Well I’m sure he will turn up soon he is probably in the back where the club is.”
“That sounds like some concern coming from you, Mr. I’m all that.”
Malcolm grinned, “maybe, maybe not.”
After that I found myself once again sitting unaccompanied on a barstool drowning my sorrows in liquor. I continued to gaze around the room and my eyes caught Malcolm’s, but I quickly turned away. I did not want him to know that I was interested.
“DaRien, here you are.”
“Yes, I’ve been here for the last hour and a half.”
“I apologize I had a business meeting.”
“Evan I’m tired of you and your apologies, I’m going home.”
“Fine, if that’s what you want to do, but how are you going to get home?”
“I’ll catch a cab.”
“That ride will cost you more than what you are willing to pay.” “As long as it gets me far away from you it will be worth it, now if you will excuse me.”
I offensively brushed past Evan and found a phone in the lobby of the hotel. No sooner than I picked up the phone a consoling voice said…
“Is everything all right?”
“Yes, I’m just trying to get a ride home.”
“I’ll take you if you don’t mind.” “Will it bite me in the butt later?”
“No, but I might.”
I laughed as Malcolm took hold of my arm and escorted me to his car.
The ride home was pleasing, because I did not have to hear an entire conversation about him. Malcolm could actually hold an interesting conversation that left me wanting more of his time and him. Pulling into the driveway I noticed that Payton’s car was not there. I was glad, because I didn’t feel like hearing a lecture on not being saved.
“Thank you Malcolm, I really appreciate the ride.”
“You are quite welcome, but let me walk you to the door.”
If I didn’t know any better, Malcolm could pass for a reincarnation of Dontay, if I believed in that.
“For someone who is stuck on himself you are very thoughtful.”
“Tell me something I don’t know.”
“Wow, you are a tough crowd, let’s see I can’t tell you something you don’t know, but I can show you.”
“I doubt that.” Malcolm turned to walk away, so I stepped around him so he would stop.
“What are you doing?”
I grabbed Malcolm’s tie and pulled on it so his body would follow, then I kissed him. At first he wouldn’t kiss me back, but it didn’t take long for him to change his mind.
“I definitely didn’t know that, is there more that I don’t know?”
“Come in and I’ll show you.”
Malcolm followed me into the house and to my room. Before we could reach the bed my dress was off and Malcolm was now my muscular blanket. His strong sexy arms embraced my body with lots of passion and a touch of caring. Then staleness filled the air as the little voice in my head asked, “Do you have protection?” As the answer “no” filled my ears as I sullenly put my dress back on.
“What’s the matter?”
“If we are going to do this, it needs to be done right, I’m not ready for motherhood.”
“Look, I consider myself to be skilled in this event, I haven’t reproduced myself yet.”
“And you definitely won’t have the opportunity with me, I’m sorry, but I can’t without protection.”
“I saw a store about ten minutes away, I’ll be right back.”
“No, the moment has passed and maybe it’s a good thing, we barely know each other and I don’t casually sleep around.”
“Who said it will be casual, if you are good I’ll come back.”
“I’m sorry, but you need to leave.”
I tried not to get out of sorts about what happened; but it wasn’t easy, it was like losing Dontay all over again.
Sitting in my office I could hear Mrs. Winters coming up the hallway.
“How are we this morning?”
“Good, Mrs. Winters, and you?”
“Fantastic, I have some good news for you.”
“What is it?”
“Our annual charity event Reaching for the Stars is coming up and I want you to plan it.”
“Are you serious?”
“Yes I am, and if you do a good job you will be promoted to assistant director.”
“Thanks Mrs. Winters I’ll do my best.”
“I know you will, you have six weeks and a budget of $10,000.00, not a penny more, all I require are copies of the receipts.”
“I’ll get on it right away.”
“By the by DaRien have you talked with Evan lately?
“No, he keeps leaving me messages on my answering machine, but I haven’t returned any of his phone calls.”
“DaRien, plan as you need to. This event is company business so make me aware by providing an agenda at the beginning of each workday. I want to ensure you are paid for your time.”
After Mrs. Winters left my office I sat back in my chair and grinned from ear to ear. I felt like I was finally accomplishing something with my life and I could not wait to share it with Payton. When Payton picked me up from work I informed her of the good news, but she didn’t seem to be very enthusiastic about my good fortune.
“DaRien, it may not seem like I’m happy for you, but I am. I’m just disappointed that you are not giving God the praise for your blessing.”
“You said God doesn’t bless sinners.”
“That’s true, but when something good happens in your life it’s from God, because all good things come from God.”
“Payton let us end this conversation right here. I don’t understand what you are saying and its just making me more confused.”
The next day I walked into the ballroom and the maintenance men had the banner up, but it was slightly crooked. I decided to fix it myself, so I grabbed the ladder they were using and made my way up its steps. My legs became shaky when I looked down and realized that I climbed higher than I intended.
I began loosing my balance and in the mist of trying to hang on, a picture of me hitting the floor flashed in my head. The ladder continued falling backwards while I clutched the steps for dear life. A bellowing scream rose from the pit of my stomach and echoed through the ballroom. Knowing that doom was near I closed my eyes and prepared for the worst. Readily I waited for the sound of my bones breaking, as I opened my eyes to see if I had met my maker. .
“I got you.”
I couldn’t say a word.
“DaRien, DaRien.”
“I’m fine, just a little shaken up, thank you.”
Malcolm gently put me down and turned around and began walking away.
Chapter 3
Enthralled in my work I could feel progress-taking place. When I finished I went back to my office to call Payton so she could come pick me up. I didn’t get an answer so I tried her cell phone and was unsuccessful. I locked up my office and hoped that she was on her way.
When I opened the exit door the heat from the sun ambushed me while making my way to the front of the arena. Time was passing slowly as I continued to wait on Payton. Finally after been scorched by the rays of the sun I headed back inside to call a cab. I hadn’t taken two steps when I heard…
“You need a ride?”
I turned around and replied, “It depends on who’s asking.”
It was Malcolm in a tight burnt orange Jaguar. I must admit Malcolm did his ride justice, but once I got in he would look even better.
“Come on get in, I’ll take you home.”
“Talk about your perfect timing, you have been coming to my rescue all day; you must not be mad at me anymore.”
“I’m not, but I wasn’t mad to begin with just a little teed-off.”
Malcolm grinned as he pulled off into traffic. Our conversation didn’t last long due to the fact that I only lived thirty minutes away.
“I couldn’t tell from the other night, but you are not living so bad yourself.”
“I’m not living at all, this is my cousin’s house, and she won a big settlement about four years ago and with a few smart investments was able to completely stop working.”
“Looks like I’ve got the wrong woman.” “That’s not funny, my cousin is a saved older woman, who would rather cast demons out of you than date you.”
You say some interesting things and it’s hard to find brains with beauty.”
“Thanks, but I know all that about myself, if you want to impress me tell me something I don’t know.”
Before getting out of Malcolm’s jag I placed a piece of paper securely in his hand then I seductively walked myself into the house. I knew he was watching so I needed to make a lasting impression. When I entered the house without delay I put my things away and began cleaning, then I could relax in my bath. I went into the bathroom and lit my vanilla scented candles and turned the local jazz station. I grabbed the phone out of my room, a fresh towel, and washcloth. I was ready to enjoy my quiet time when I remembered I purchased new scented bath oil from Victoria’s Secret. Quickly, I ran to my room and retrieved the bottle off the top of my dresser. Before I could get settled in the bubbles the phone rang.
“Hello.”
“DaRien it’s me Malcolm, you answered the phone pretty quick were you waiting for my call?”
“As a matter of fact yours and maybe a few others Mr. Wise Guy.”
“What are you doing?”
“I just hopped into a nice hot bubble bath, my nerves are a little stressed from trying not to fall off the ladder.”
“What lucky bubbles.”
“So, what’s going on with you, I didn’t think you would actually call.”
“Since you made it obvious that you wanted me to, by sneaking your number into my hand, I had to see what’s going on with you.”
“Malcolm, I want to apologize for what happened. It was never my intention to lead you on.”
“Let it go, I already have.”
Our conversation lasted past midnight and finally I gave in and told Malcolm I had a lot of things to take care of. It was also told to me that, “Whoever hangs the phone up first has control over the situation.” When I hung up the phone I went into the den to watch television, I was too excited to sleep. I saw the light on in Payton’s room so I knocked on the door.
“Payton, are you up? I want to talk to you?”
“Everything okay DaRien?”
“No,” I replied as I walked into her room. “Payton what happened to you this afternoon, you didn’t pick me up.”
“DaRien, I’m sorry, but I was tied up at the church.”
“Is that your answer to everything? You show the church people more love than you show me.”
“That’s not true, I just got caught up in what I was doing and forgot.”
“Payton that’s the fifth time this month you’ve forgotten about me, I may not be saved, but you need to stop being so holier than thou and start showing some love to your real family. You have two cars out there and you refuse to let me drive.”
“DaRien why are you being so dramatic? I already told you that until you decide you want to live for Christ you would not be driving any of my cars.”
“Payton you can at least let me drive to work.”
“You’re right I could, I’ll think about it.”
I went back to my room. Sometimes I felt like Payton hated me more than she loved me, and she wonders why I won’t go to that cold church she attends. I didn’t dwell on it long, because in a few more weeks I would have enough money saved up to get my Mustang convertible out of the shop. Lying in bed I thought about Malcolm and how I could win him over without being too forceful. Before that thought could be applied my alarm clock was going off, alerting me to another day.
Making it past security I had Payton drop me off in the lower parking deck, so I could take the steps instead of the elevator. When I arrived at my office, Malcolm was waiting with two of his teammates. As I nervously approached them Malcolm’s eyes looked as if he was seeing through my soul.
“Are you surprised to see me?”
“Actually I am, what’s going on?”
“Nothing much, these are two of my teammates Jamal and Corey.”
“Nice to meet you, would you like to come into my office?”
“Guys I’ll catch you at practice.”
“Later man.”
“What brings you by here this morning?”
“I enjoyed our conversation so much, that I couldn’t stop thinking about you.” “I’m flattered and speechless, you’ve actually caught me off guard.” “Good, I must be doing something right, you usually have a come back for everything I say.”
“Don’t get too cocky it’s only the first round.”
“Well, I was thinking about you, and I wanted to know if we could get together tonight and maybe watch a movie or two?”
“Sounds like a date to me, be at my place at 8:00p.m sharp.”
“Until then, my sweet, until then.”
When Malcolm left my office I fell back in my chair and let out a joyful sigh. It seemed like it was too good to be true. Happiness warmed my body as I thought about our date on tonight. I became so enthralled in Malcolm I almost forgot about my meeting with Mrs. Winters this morning. Apparently she didn’t forget, because I could hear those manly footsteps pounding the pavement.
“Knock, knock Miss Washington.”
“Are you ready to give me a update on the budget?”
“If you are ready Mrs. Winters I am.”
I don’t know why until now that I noticed that Mrs. Winters stands about 6’9”, her frame was solid all over like she lifted lightweights in her spare time. Mrs. Winters had her hair in braids today; which was nice, because she didn’t look so masculine.
“Do you find everything to your liking?”
“As a matter of fact I do, you have done an outstanding job so far.”
“Thanks Mrs. Winters, I really appreciate this.”
“I also have this for you.”
“Wow, a bonus? For what?”
“Its just to show how much we appreciate you, as she turned to walk away she looked over her shoulder and said, take the rest of the day off.”
Looking at the check I knew I could not pass up the opportunity to get my car out of the shop. The car was ready a few days ago, but I could not see giving the mechanic all that money at one time. I thought about calling Payton to see if she could pick me up, but I was very skeptical, I should have followed my feelings.
“Yes DaRien.”
“Payton I’m getting off from work at one o’clock can you pick me up?”
“No I won’t be able to I have to take one of the sisters of the church somewhere.”
“See Payton, that’s what I’m talking about, you always choose them over me!”
I slammed the phone down, I was so mad I could spit nails. If I ever get saved I will not be a member of a church who is incapable of showing love to people not like them. I sat down at my desk trying to let off some steam, but the more I pondered on what Payton said the madder I became. Her actions were inexcusable, but I needed to deal with the issue that was in front of me. Who could I get to take me to the car dealership to pick up my car?
It finally dawned on me that I have Malcolm’s cell phone number. At first I was hesitant to call, but to me this was a real emergency. My heart began to beat fast as I slowly dialed his number.
“Hello.” “Malcolm, this is DaRien, can you do me a favor?”
“Anything, what up?” “Can you to pick me up at one so I can go get my car?” “Not a problem, I’ll see you at one.”
I impetuously cleaned my office while I waited for Malcolm. I was startled by a knock at the door, and then looking at the clock I realized that it was five minutes after the hour. I opened the door in haste and saw my chocolate knight calmly waiting for me.
“You forgot about me.”
“I’m sorry, I started cleaning my office and was caught up in the moment.” “Are you ready?” “Yes, just let me get my purse.”
Malcolm was a true gentleman, he opened up the car door for me and on the way to the dealership he offered to buy me something to eat. I wasn’t hungry, but I needed to stop by the bank to deposit my check. I was in and out of the bank in no time. Malcolm waited at the dealership with me to make sure that all the repairs were done properly. It felt nice to have someone be at my side that was not against everything I did or said. After we inspected the car I gave Malcolm an implied hug and a sensuous kiss on the cheek, “Thank you I really appreciate it.” “No problem DaRien, see you tonight.”
Smooches
Dahlia
******
Reading my first romance novel left me like a blank sheet of paper, very empty. It seemed like it took forever for the plot to thicken and the excitement to hit a high. As I bitterly read "the end" I thought to myself "you could have done a better job than that". As I grew, so did my creativity and my ideas for a good romance novel.
My style of writing is one that I personally created; but like most things people don't understand, it has not been embraced. My romance novels are exciting from the beginning of the book to the end; without lacking interest and/or a good plot. I also believe a little romance needs a little laughter. In my book "Choices" your attention is kept from beginning to end.
The story line takes place in Orlando, Florida and like most young women coming out of a relationship, we tend to be vunerable when we think we have found Mr. Right all over again. We don't think that the decisions we make have consequences. We live for that day, that moment; not realizing that the people around us will be affected whether positvely or negatively.
Below is a few paragraphs selected from Choices, enjoy.
CHOICES
“DaRien, get up, right now! You have less than an hour to get dressed and get to work.”
“Payton, please don’t start this morning.”
“You want me to start after they fire you?”
“Darn I almost forgot about the arena, it’s my first day.”
“DaRien, you are going to learn the hard way.”
“I’ll be ready in a minute Payton.”
“You need to be to work at least fifteen minutes early to make a good impression.”
I immediately jumped out of bed, showered and put on a pair of blue slacks and a nice light blue blouse, I threw my hair in a neat pony tail, and grabbed my sensible shoes. I was very excited because this was my first job since I moved to Orlando. My excitement turned to nervousness as I thought about working around NBA players. Even though my looks allowed me the pleasure of being with any man of my choosing, I did not desire to fall in love again. Payton is always telling me that, “Although you are not running around in the streets you’re not running for the Lord either.” I did not mind the advice, but every since Payton gave her life to Christ she has been a thorn in my side. She nags me when I go to the clubs, she doesn’t allow me to drink wine or listen to my kind of music in her house. She’s always saying, “when you give your life to Jesus you need to live a certain way.” From what I’ve seen at the clubs and on Sunday mornings when I did go to church; I couldn’t tell the difference.
Payton dropped me off at the arena and without delay I went to Mrs. Winters, office and waited to be invited in.
“Come in.”
“Good morning Mrs. Winters, I’m DaRien Washington.”
“Yes, your fifteen minutes early I like that, come have a seat.”
I sat down tentatively ready to begin my workday and thought Payton would be gloating if she knew her advise had come to roost.
“DaRien before we get started I’m going to give you a tour of the arena.”
I thought to myself “I’m glad I wore my practical shoes.” I innocently followed Mrs. Winters down a lengthy hallway until we came to a set of double doors. Before she opened the doors she gave me a speech on how not to get mixed up with sin. Then she continued explaining that trouble lurked behind these doors. When she finally opened the doors I thought “hmm”, because all I saw were the Orlando Bandits team practicing and running drills.
“Mrs. Winters are you sure this is trouble?”
“I’m warning you DaRien stay clear or you will have to suffer the consequences.”
Mrs. Winters showed me the cafeteria, and then she took me to the security booth to get an electronic key pass for the parking deck. The tour lasted about thirty minutes, but it felt longer. When it was finally over Mrs. Winters took me to what I later found out was my office. She gave me a stack of papers to fill out as she informed me on what my job duties included. The job seemed simple enough I just hoped with my track record I would not blow it.
By the time I finished filling out the paper work it was lunchtime. I was headed to the cafeteria, but Mrs. Winters insisted that I have lunch with her. I figured anything for free; unknown to me at that time Mrs. Winters invited her nephew Evan as well. Evan stood about six feet five inches; he was caramel in color, with wavy jet-black hair, and a body that did not miss putting in time with free weights.
“DaRien this is my nephew Evan, Evan this is DaRien.”
“Nice to meet you DaRien.”
“Same here.”
“Well if you two will excuse me I have to go to the little girls room.”
“DaRien, how do you like the job so far?”
“I can’t say, I really haven’t done anything, but fill out paper work.”
“I hope this won’t embarrass you, but you are very beautiful.”
“Thanks,” I said as I bit into a slice of pizza.
“Are you from around here?”
“No, and from your accent I can tell you aren’t either.”
“I was born here, but when my father died my mom moved back to Cuba. After her death a few years ago I moved back and now I live with my uncle who is the owner of the Orlando Bandits.”
“So how does that make you related to Mrs. Winters, she is black.”
“My mother was Cuban and my father a man of color. Mrs. Winters is my aunt on my father’s side of the family and the owner is my mother’s step brother.”
“Oh,” I said as I nervously grabbed the unopened two-liter bottle of soda. In my haste I knocked the bottle on the floor and fumbled to pick it up. After recovering the soda I sat it on the desk and without thinking opened it. Why did I do that I don’t know. The next thing I remember outside of looking like a fool; was soda spraying in my face and all over my clothes. When the soda ceased from squirting all over me so did my screams.
“DaRien, are you okay?” Evan asked as a grin came on his face.
Wiping my face with a paper napkin I replied, “Yes, I just feel like a fool.”
“You shouldn’t we all have our unforgettable moments,” then he helped me remove the soda from my face.
Looking into his eyes my body began to tingle as he leaned in toward me. Then Mrs. Winters came running in, and there was a distinguished looking gentleman with her.
“Is everything okay?”
“Yes, Mrs. Winters I just lost control of the soda.”
“DaRien put my jacket on so you can cover yourself.”
I looked down then turned around in haste, you could see through my blouse and my bra, I felt so x-rated. I reached behind me so Evan could hand me his jacket and once I got situated I turned around being even more embarrassed.
“DaRien, this is Carmine Santiago, the owner of the Bandits.”
“Nice to meet you, but why do you seem familiar to me. What’s your mother’s name?”
“My mother and father died when I was three, my aunt Naomi raised me.”
“Sorry, to hear that, but its something about you that reminds me of someone I knew a long time ago.”
“Mrs. Winters if you don’t mind can I call it a day and continue on tomorrow?”
“I don’t have a problem with that, do you have a way home?”
“No, my car is not running and with my first check I’m going to put it in the shop.”
“I’ll give the lovely lady a ride home,” Even replied.
“Wow,” I said as Evan escorted me to his vehicle.
Evan drove a midnight blue Lexus jeep with all the extras: custom made rims, blue leather interior, and a double sunroof. Evan had plenty to say and a short amount of time to say it. By the time we reached my driveway I knew almost all I needed to know about him and he had no clue on what I was like. After inviting Evan in, I made my way to my room to shower and change. I yelled to Evan, “just give me about five minutes to change.”
“Thanks, Evan here’s your jacket.”
“I don’t have to be anywhere soon.”
Oh, okay, how about a movie?”
While watching the movie I could feel Evan’s eyes on me, which made me tenser than before.
“Why are you starring at me?”
“That obvious?”
“Yes.”
“DaRien, I don’t know what it is about you, but I want to get to know you better. The Bandits are throwing a private party at DJ’s, would you like to go with me?”
“When is the party?”
“Next Thursday at ten.”
“What’s the attire for the evening?”
“Casual to dressy and please don’t come half stepping. You have to come correct when you are on my arm.”
“What do you mean by that?”
“I mean if you don’t look good, I don’t look good and I have to look good.”
“I think maybe you need to take your highly conceited self on home, because being here might be beneath you.”
Evan looked at me strangely, “you have a mouth on you, and I’m going to have to fix that. My woman knows her place.”
“I’m not your woman. And from the looks of it I will never be and I’ll take a rain check.”
Evan grabbed me, “I don’t take no for an answer and when I come to pick you up Thursday you better be here and ready, do I make myself clear?”
“NO”, I’m not going and that is that, you don’t scare me now get out.”
“I’m leaving, but next time you are going to feel me.”
“There won’t be a next time.”
As he left he lightly tapped my face, “we’ll see, we’ll see,” he stated as he walked to his jeep laughing.
The days flew by fast as I learned the ends and outs of my job. I had not met any one who could take my mind off Dontay until today. As I sat in the cafeteria minding my own business I heard his voice. Looking up I saw a chocolate skyscraper with a smile that lit up a room and eyes that could entice you right out of your clothes. I tried not to stare but I was like a deer caught in the headlights of an oncoming vehicle.
“It’s not nice to gawk.”
“I’m sorry are you talking to me?”
“Yes I am, I know I look good and everything, but if you are going to look intently at least close your mouth.”
“You can’t be serious?” “I’m not, I’m Malcolm and you must be all into me.”
“I got up and walked away.”
Getting back to my office I could not get Malcolm out of my mind. As I pondered on when I would see him again there was a knock at my office door.
“Come in.”
“What time shall I pick you up Thursday?”
“I told you “no.”
“I want to apologize for my behavior and I came to beg for your forgiveness.”
“I forgive you, but I’m not down with being a battered woman.”
“It won’t happen again, I promise now will you please come with me to the party Thursday?”
“Yes, but if you act a fool on me again and I’ll have to show you what I’m working with.”
Evan offered to drive me home and I gladly accepted, because as usual Payton was out doing something for one of her church members, which meant she forgot about me again.
Finally, it was Thursday and I could not wait to get home. The mechanic was almost finished with my car; they were waiting on a part to come in from overseas. I don’t know why since I have a Ford. I unbelievingly called Payton and to my surprise she would be able to come and pick me up.
“Payton, I know you don’t think I appreciate the little things you do for me, but I do.”
“That’s nice to know DaRien, I’m glad to be of service.”
I handed Payton an envelope.
“What’s this?”
“Its five hundred dollars for you, I’m making my own money now and its time I repaid the favors.”
“That’s nice of you, but are you sure?”
“Yes.”
After convincing Payton to take the money, the ride home was filled with silence. Payton and I use to communicate well with each other, but lately dead silence has filled our environment. I know its because she is saved and I’m not. Pulling into the driveway Payton asked me if I had any plans and if not would I like to go with her to a revival they were having at the church. I informed her that I had other plans and to my amazement she left my “no” at being “no”.
Getting dressed I could not help but think if Malcolm would be at this gathering and if he was, did he bring a date? I must admit that I looked exceptionally glamorous tonight. My skin seemed to shine with radiance and my green eyes had an extra sparkle. While waiting for Evan, Payton gave me a lecture on tithing. Did I want to hear what she had to say? “No.” Did I sit and listen anyway? “Yes.” Thank goodness Evan pulled up when he did, because Payton was actually boring me to death with her Christian talk.
Chapter 2
I did not wait for Evan to knock on the door or blow the horn. Before he could even turn the car off I was standing on the passenger side of his jeep.
“DaRien, you look beautiful, I’m impressed.”
“Thank you, I did not have to try hard, it comes naturally when you are this gorgeous.”
“Slow your roll my conceited friend, it takes more than looks to make it these days.”
“Maybe so, but that rule does not apply to me.”
“Whatever, lets go, before we’re late.”
“”What I have to open my own door?”
“Sorry about that, let me get it for you.”
I thought to myself if this was Dontay I wouldn’t have to ask. As I enjoyed the scenery I could hear Evan faintly bragging about himself. After five minutes into his conversation I blocked him out and my mind took me back to my last night with Dontay.
It was the night before Dontay and I were to go on our honeymoon.
“Dontay, I love you.” “I love you too baby girl, but we need to get some rest if we are going to Las Vegas.”
“You know I can’t go to sleep unless I have some ice cream.”
“I forgot to get some.” “Its still early, go to the store and get me some, I’ll make it worth your while.”
“That’s what you say, then when I come back with the ice cream you will be sound asleep.”
“You’re right I can wait until tomorrow, Dontay.”
“No if my baby girl wants ice cream now or three o’clock in the morning she’s going to have it.”
“That’s one of the reasons why I love you so much.”
“Earth to DaRien.”
“What, I’m listening.”
“No you are not, because if you were you would have answered my question by now.”
“I’m sorry my mind drifted for a minute.”
“I hope you keep in mind what I’ve said.”
Who knew what Evan was talking about? During the entire conversation I was enjoying memories of my past and it made the present seem so uninteresting. After Evan parked his jeep, I patiently waited for him to escort me out on the passenger side, but to my dismay he proceeded into the building as if he was unaware that I was not on his arm. By this time I was somewhat frustrated, so I let myself out and hastily joined Evan at the door. Before we entered I politely motioned Evan to the side so I could have a few words with him.
“What is your problem?”
“What are you talking about DaRien?”
“Look I may not be all that to you, but I am a lady and you need to start treating me like one.” “Please, forgive me my mind kicked into business mode.”
“And that means what to me?”
“I’m not here for just play, I have some work to do also.”
“If that is the case maybe you should have come by yourself.”
“Maybe.”
Before I could get another word in Evan rudely walked away. I don’t know if this was his way of treating women he thought needed to be trained or if he was just obnoxious like that. At this point it didn’t matter, because I followed him like a lost puppy. I felt like I did not have a choice, because I was in a place surrounded by strangers.
Entering the hotel ballroom I was inundated with awe. The upper crust, high society, rich and the famous filled the extravagantly decorated halls of the hotel. I felt somewhat underdressed, but as I watched the people passing by me going in either direction I became more comfortable with my attire. I lost Evan in the crowd so I made myself comfortable on a near by barstool.
“Can I get you something to drink miss?”
“It depends on how much it’s going to cost.” The bartender laughed, “it must be your first time, all the drinks are free.”
“In that case I’ll have a Zima with a twist of lemon.”
“Coming right up.”
As I patiently waited for my drink I scanned the room to find at least one familiar face, hopefully Mrs. Winters, but due to the abundance of people I failed at my task.
“Here you go miss.”
“Thank you,” I said as I reached for my drink.
Its amazing how a person can be in a crowd of people and feel alone, so I took myself back to a time when I was happiest.
“I love you to DaRien, I’ll be back in a bit.”
“Wait a minute, I want to go with you.”
“No, it’s not a good idea.” “That’s why I want to go, please.”
“Okay, get dressed, I’ll be waiting in the car.”
As I put my clothes on I thought about our trip to Las Vegas, I wanted to honeymoon in the Bahamas, but when a trip is all expenses paid for who can complain. I could not stop from smiling as I dressed. Before I put my shoes on I heard gunshots, which wasn’t strange in this part of town. I quickly made my way down stairs to Dontay’s car, but there was no sign of him. As I walked around to the driver’s side of the car what I saw made my heart stop. Dontay was lying in a pool of blood.
It felt as if I was in some bad dream, like I was trying to wake up but I couldn’t. Slowly with tears in my eyes I walked over to him and checked his pulse, he was barely alive.
“Dontay, baby can you hear me.” In a low and strained voice he said, “I love you baby girl.” “I love you too, just hold on,” I said crying franticly.
A crowd began to gather, but all I could see was the love of my life slipping away from me. I guess someone called 911, because I could hear sirens moving closer and closer. I leaned in to Dontay and kissed him as he took his final breath. When the medical team through the sheet over his face I knew then that it was all over and my life would not been the same. Each day I wake up with the guilt that if it weren’t for me Dontay would still be alive.
I could feel the tears trying to emerge from my eyes as I regained my composure and remembered where I was. Then I gulped down my Zima and asked for another. I knew drowning my sorrows in alcohol would not help, but it sure would make me forget not forever, but just for a little bit.
“You make the evening look so lovely.”
“Thank you,” I said as I turned around to see who was paying me the compliment, it was Malcolm.
“I might be wrong, but your face is jacked up, are you okay?”
“I’ll be fine, a few more of these, (I took a sip of my drink) and I’ll be right before you know it.”
“I hope you didn’t drive.” “No, I came with Evan, who apparently doesn’t remember he brought me. I have not seen him in the last hour.”
“Well I’m sure he will turn up soon he is probably in the back where the club is.”
“That sounds like some concern coming from you, Mr. I’m all that.”
Malcolm grinned, “maybe, maybe not.”
After that I found myself once again sitting unaccompanied on a barstool drowning my sorrows in liquor. I continued to gaze around the room and my eyes caught Malcolm’s, but I quickly turned away. I did not want him to know that I was interested.
“DaRien, here you are.”
“Yes, I’ve been here for the last hour and a half.”
“I apologize I had a business meeting.”
“Evan I’m tired of you and your apologies, I’m going home.”
“Fine, if that’s what you want to do, but how are you going to get home?”
“I’ll catch a cab.”
“That ride will cost you more than what you are willing to pay.” “As long as it gets me far away from you it will be worth it, now if you will excuse me.”
I offensively brushed past Evan and found a phone in the lobby of the hotel. No sooner than I picked up the phone a consoling voice said…
“Is everything all right?”
“Yes, I’m just trying to get a ride home.”
“I’ll take you if you don’t mind.” “Will it bite me in the butt later?”
“No, but I might.”
I laughed as Malcolm took hold of my arm and escorted me to his car.
The ride home was pleasing, because I did not have to hear an entire conversation about him. Malcolm could actually hold an interesting conversation that left me wanting more of his time and him. Pulling into the driveway I noticed that Payton’s car was not there. I was glad, because I didn’t feel like hearing a lecture on not being saved.
“Thank you Malcolm, I really appreciate the ride.”
“You are quite welcome, but let me walk you to the door.”
If I didn’t know any better, Malcolm could pass for a reincarnation of Dontay, if I believed in that.
“For someone who is stuck on himself you are very thoughtful.”
“Tell me something I don’t know.”
“Wow, you are a tough crowd, let’s see I can’t tell you something you don’t know, but I can show you.”
“I doubt that.” Malcolm turned to walk away, so I stepped around him so he would stop.
“What are you doing?”
I grabbed Malcolm’s tie and pulled on it so his body would follow, then I kissed him. At first he wouldn’t kiss me back, but it didn’t take long for him to change his mind.
“I definitely didn’t know that, is there more that I don’t know?”
“Come in and I’ll show you.”
Malcolm followed me into the house and to my room. Before we could reach the bed my dress was off and Malcolm was now my muscular blanket. His strong sexy arms embraced my body with lots of passion and a touch of caring. Then staleness filled the air as the little voice in my head asked, “Do you have protection?” As the answer “no” filled my ears as I sullenly put my dress back on.
“What’s the matter?”
“If we are going to do this, it needs to be done right, I’m not ready for motherhood.”
“Look, I consider myself to be skilled in this event, I haven’t reproduced myself yet.”
“And you definitely won’t have the opportunity with me, I’m sorry, but I can’t without protection.”
“I saw a store about ten minutes away, I’ll be right back.”
“No, the moment has passed and maybe it’s a good thing, we barely know each other and I don’t casually sleep around.”
“Who said it will be casual, if you are good I’ll come back.”
“I’m sorry, but you need to leave.”
I tried not to get out of sorts about what happened; but it wasn’t easy, it was like losing Dontay all over again.
Sitting in my office I could hear Mrs. Winters coming up the hallway.
“How are we this morning?”
“Good, Mrs. Winters, and you?”
“Fantastic, I have some good news for you.”
“What is it?”
“Our annual charity event Reaching for the Stars is coming up and I want you to plan it.”
“Are you serious?”
“Yes I am, and if you do a good job you will be promoted to assistant director.”
“Thanks Mrs. Winters I’ll do my best.”
“I know you will, you have six weeks and a budget of $10,000.00, not a penny more, all I require are copies of the receipts.”
“I’ll get on it right away.”
“By the by DaRien have you talked with Evan lately?
“No, he keeps leaving me messages on my answering machine, but I haven’t returned any of his phone calls.”
“DaRien, plan as you need to. This event is company business so make me aware by providing an agenda at the beginning of each workday. I want to ensure you are paid for your time.”
After Mrs. Winters left my office I sat back in my chair and grinned from ear to ear. I felt like I was finally accomplishing something with my life and I could not wait to share it with Payton. When Payton picked me up from work I informed her of the good news, but she didn’t seem to be very enthusiastic about my good fortune.
“DaRien, it may not seem like I’m happy for you, but I am. I’m just disappointed that you are not giving God the praise for your blessing.”
“You said God doesn’t bless sinners.”
“That’s true, but when something good happens in your life it’s from God, because all good things come from God.”
“Payton let us end this conversation right here. I don’t understand what you are saying and its just making me more confused.”
The next day I walked into the ballroom and the maintenance men had the banner up, but it was slightly crooked. I decided to fix it myself, so I grabbed the ladder they were using and made my way up its steps. My legs became shaky when I looked down and realized that I climbed higher than I intended.
I began loosing my balance and in the mist of trying to hang on, a picture of me hitting the floor flashed in my head. The ladder continued falling backwards while I clutched the steps for dear life. A bellowing scream rose from the pit of my stomach and echoed through the ballroom. Knowing that doom was near I closed my eyes and prepared for the worst. Readily I waited for the sound of my bones breaking, as I opened my eyes to see if I had met my maker. .
“I got you.”
I couldn’t say a word.
“DaRien, DaRien.”
“I’m fine, just a little shaken up, thank you.”
Malcolm gently put me down and turned around and began walking away.
Chapter 3
Enthralled in my work I could feel progress-taking place. When I finished I went back to my office to call Payton so she could come pick me up. I didn’t get an answer so I tried her cell phone and was unsuccessful. I locked up my office and hoped that she was on her way.
When I opened the exit door the heat from the sun ambushed me while making my way to the front of the arena. Time was passing slowly as I continued to wait on Payton. Finally after been scorched by the rays of the sun I headed back inside to call a cab. I hadn’t taken two steps when I heard…
“You need a ride?”
I turned around and replied, “It depends on who’s asking.”
It was Malcolm in a tight burnt orange Jaguar. I must admit Malcolm did his ride justice, but once I got in he would look even better.
“Come on get in, I’ll take you home.”
“Talk about your perfect timing, you have been coming to my rescue all day; you must not be mad at me anymore.”
“I’m not, but I wasn’t mad to begin with just a little teed-off.”
Malcolm grinned as he pulled off into traffic. Our conversation didn’t last long due to the fact that I only lived thirty minutes away.
“I couldn’t tell from the other night, but you are not living so bad yourself.”
“I’m not living at all, this is my cousin’s house, and she won a big settlement about four years ago and with a few smart investments was able to completely stop working.”
“Looks like I’ve got the wrong woman.” “That’s not funny, my cousin is a saved older woman, who would rather cast demons out of you than date you.”
You say some interesting things and it’s hard to find brains with beauty.”
“Thanks, but I know all that about myself, if you want to impress me tell me something I don’t know.”
Before getting out of Malcolm’s jag I placed a piece of paper securely in his hand then I seductively walked myself into the house. I knew he was watching so I needed to make a lasting impression. When I entered the house without delay I put my things away and began cleaning, then I could relax in my bath. I went into the bathroom and lit my vanilla scented candles and turned the local jazz station. I grabbed the phone out of my room, a fresh towel, and washcloth. I was ready to enjoy my quiet time when I remembered I purchased new scented bath oil from Victoria’s Secret. Quickly, I ran to my room and retrieved the bottle off the top of my dresser. Before I could get settled in the bubbles the phone rang.
“Hello.”
“DaRien it’s me Malcolm, you answered the phone pretty quick were you waiting for my call?”
“As a matter of fact yours and maybe a few others Mr. Wise Guy.”
“What are you doing?”
“I just hopped into a nice hot bubble bath, my nerves are a little stressed from trying not to fall off the ladder.”
“What lucky bubbles.”
“So, what’s going on with you, I didn’t think you would actually call.”
“Since you made it obvious that you wanted me to, by sneaking your number into my hand, I had to see what’s going on with you.”
“Malcolm, I want to apologize for what happened. It was never my intention to lead you on.”
“Let it go, I already have.”
Our conversation lasted past midnight and finally I gave in and told Malcolm I had a lot of things to take care of. It was also told to me that, “Whoever hangs the phone up first has control over the situation.” When I hung up the phone I went into the den to watch television, I was too excited to sleep. I saw the light on in Payton’s room so I knocked on the door.
“Payton, are you up? I want to talk to you?”
“Everything okay DaRien?”
“No,” I replied as I walked into her room. “Payton what happened to you this afternoon, you didn’t pick me up.”
“DaRien, I’m sorry, but I was tied up at the church.”
“Is that your answer to everything? You show the church people more love than you show me.”
“That’s not true, I just got caught up in what I was doing and forgot.”
“Payton that’s the fifth time this month you’ve forgotten about me, I may not be saved, but you need to stop being so holier than thou and start showing some love to your real family. You have two cars out there and you refuse to let me drive.”
“DaRien why are you being so dramatic? I already told you that until you decide you want to live for Christ you would not be driving any of my cars.”
“Payton you can at least let me drive to work.”
“You’re right I could, I’ll think about it.”
I went back to my room. Sometimes I felt like Payton hated me more than she loved me, and she wonders why I won’t go to that cold church she attends. I didn’t dwell on it long, because in a few more weeks I would have enough money saved up to get my Mustang convertible out of the shop. Lying in bed I thought about Malcolm and how I could win him over without being too forceful. Before that thought could be applied my alarm clock was going off, alerting me to another day.
Making it past security I had Payton drop me off in the lower parking deck, so I could take the steps instead of the elevator. When I arrived at my office, Malcolm was waiting with two of his teammates. As I nervously approached them Malcolm’s eyes looked as if he was seeing through my soul.
“Are you surprised to see me?”
“Actually I am, what’s going on?”
“Nothing much, these are two of my teammates Jamal and Corey.”
“Nice to meet you, would you like to come into my office?”
“Guys I’ll catch you at practice.”
“Later man.”
“What brings you by here this morning?”
“I enjoyed our conversation so much, that I couldn’t stop thinking about you.” “I’m flattered and speechless, you’ve actually caught me off guard.” “Good, I must be doing something right, you usually have a come back for everything I say.”
“Don’t get too cocky it’s only the first round.”
“Well, I was thinking about you, and I wanted to know if we could get together tonight and maybe watch a movie or two?”
“Sounds like a date to me, be at my place at 8:00p.m sharp.”
“Until then, my sweet, until then.”
When Malcolm left my office I fell back in my chair and let out a joyful sigh. It seemed like it was too good to be true. Happiness warmed my body as I thought about our date on tonight. I became so enthralled in Malcolm I almost forgot about my meeting with Mrs. Winters this morning. Apparently she didn’t forget, because I could hear those manly footsteps pounding the pavement.
“Knock, knock Miss Washington.”
“Are you ready to give me a update on the budget?”
“If you are ready Mrs. Winters I am.”
I don’t know why until now that I noticed that Mrs. Winters stands about 6’9”, her frame was solid all over like she lifted lightweights in her spare time. Mrs. Winters had her hair in braids today; which was nice, because she didn’t look so masculine.
“Do you find everything to your liking?”
“As a matter of fact I do, you have done an outstanding job so far.”
“Thanks Mrs. Winters, I really appreciate this.”
“I also have this for you.”
“Wow, a bonus? For what?”
“Its just to show how much we appreciate you, as she turned to walk away she looked over her shoulder and said, take the rest of the day off.”
Looking at the check I knew I could not pass up the opportunity to get my car out of the shop. The car was ready a few days ago, but I could not see giving the mechanic all that money at one time. I thought about calling Payton to see if she could pick me up, but I was very skeptical, I should have followed my feelings.
“Yes DaRien.”
“Payton I’m getting off from work at one o’clock can you pick me up?”
“No I won’t be able to I have to take one of the sisters of the church somewhere.”
“See Payton, that’s what I’m talking about, you always choose them over me!”
I slammed the phone down, I was so mad I could spit nails. If I ever get saved I will not be a member of a church who is incapable of showing love to people not like them. I sat down at my desk trying to let off some steam, but the more I pondered on what Payton said the madder I became. Her actions were inexcusable, but I needed to deal with the issue that was in front of me. Who could I get to take me to the car dealership to pick up my car?
It finally dawned on me that I have Malcolm’s cell phone number. At first I was hesitant to call, but to me this was a real emergency. My heart began to beat fast as I slowly dialed his number.
“Hello.” “Malcolm, this is DaRien, can you do me a favor?”
“Anything, what up?” “Can you to pick me up at one so I can go get my car?” “Not a problem, I’ll see you at one.”
I impetuously cleaned my office while I waited for Malcolm. I was startled by a knock at the door, and then looking at the clock I realized that it was five minutes after the hour. I opened the door in haste and saw my chocolate knight calmly waiting for me.
“You forgot about me.”
“I’m sorry, I started cleaning my office and was caught up in the moment.” “Are you ready?” “Yes, just let me get my purse.”
Malcolm was a true gentleman, he opened up the car door for me and on the way to the dealership he offered to buy me something to eat. I wasn’t hungry, but I needed to stop by the bank to deposit my check. I was in and out of the bank in no time. Malcolm waited at the dealership with me to make sure that all the repairs were done properly. It felt nice to have someone be at my side that was not against everything I did or said. After we inspected the car I gave Malcolm an implied hug and a sensuous kiss on the cheek, “Thank you I really appreciate it.” “No problem DaRien, see you tonight.”
Sunday, March 18, 2007
Sage Burnett brings Us Cowboys!!
Hey Guys and Dolls!
The blog is late this weekend because well...eblogger would not let me in!! Would you belive it! But never fear I come bearing gifts!! An Interview with Sage Burnett! Now she has alot to say so read her interview and see what this lady has to say!!
1: Dahlia: In our cyber interview chair today we have Sage Burnett author of Candy Man. Welcome Sage and tell us more about your most recent release!
CANDY MAN is a fun and hot contemporary Valentine’s story. Annie Chandler’s boyfriend stands her up and sends his co-worker, Scott Barnes to deliver candy and flowers to her. What happens after that is instant attraction on Scott’s part. Once Annie gets over her anger at being stood up, she finally notices how sexy Scott Barnes really is. After that the evening definitely heats up for the two of them.
2: Dahlia: You have a great set of titles under your belt. What is our inspiration for these books?
Whenever I am asked that question I have to pause because ideas and characters just pop into my head. Lately, titles have been popping into my head left and right which means I have to figure out stories to go with the titles. Since I write contemporary, every day life or my surroundings help inspire me.
3: Dahlia: We love the hot hunky cowboys on your covers. Is there any genre you haven’t tried that you are interested in writing in the future?
I keep thinking about paranormal or futuristic, but so far that’s as far as I’ve gotten with those ideas. lol.
4: Dahlia: What other releases do you have available for the readers. Could you give us a short blurb about it?
GUNPOINT, Steamy Contemporary Romantic Suspense from MGP.
COWBOY BLUES, Hot Contemporary Romance, also from MGP.
From Siren Publishing: LOVE’S REDEMPTION, Steamy Contemporary Romantic Suspense.
RODEO COWBOYS, The Series, Three Sizzling Contemporaries. MELANIE’S PROTECTOR, KARLY’S DRIFTER AND JOSIE’S HEARTBREAKER.
P.S. All of my stories take place in Montana. It’s kind of my trademark.
7: Dahlia: Are any of your books in print? Which ones and where readers could find them. RODEO COWBOYS, THE SERIES, Now at Amazon: http://www.sirenpublishing.com/sageburnett/rcs.asp I also have one book under my real name, Patricia Parkinson in print from Samhain. DEAD OF WINTER. Sensual contemporary romantic suspense. http://samhainpublishing.com/romance/dead-of-winter
8: Dahlia: So tell us Sage if there was one place in the world you could visit where would that be and would you use it as a setting in one of your books?
I’ve wanted to visit Paris since I was a teenager. Whether or not that fantasy will ever come true is another story. There’s just something about Paris and the French that is so undeniably sexy. And yes, I could see this Montana country girl writing a story about Paris, especially if I met an attractive French man. lol.
9: Dahlia: What other hats does Sage Burnett wear other than writer.
Right now for me writing is what I do full time. In the past I’ve had all kinds of jobs from a bartender to office and factory work. At the moment I’m single. I have a rowdy girl black lab, Madison, and two girl cats, Runt and Cody.
10: Dahlia: What are some of your favorite things in life? Foods, colors etc?
I absolutely love sweets. But I also love fruits and vegetables. Go figure. lol. I love to read. I also love to walk and in the summer do a lot of hiking in and around the Rocky Mountains. My favorite color changes every few years. It used to be pink, now it’s blue. And always black. That color never changes.
11: Dahlia: Are there any coming soon titles we should look for? Would you share a short blurb? UNDER TANNER’S THUMB releases April 1 from Siren Publishing. It’s a contemporary adult fairy tale. Light hearted and humorous. This was the first time I wrote a fairy tale and it was such great fun. The hero happens to be a cowboy. Hmmm...I wonder how that happened.
RECKLESS BEHAVIOR, is scheduled for release April 14 from MGP. Hot Contemporary Romantic Suspense. This particular book is one of my favorites because it’s darker than I usually write. The heroine believes that Jack the man who lives across the street is stalking her even though she is wildly attracted to him. No cowboys in this one, ladies. Jack, the hero builds houses.
I contracted VIRGIN THIEF with Phaze Publishing in February. Release date to be announced. Hot Contemporary Romance. This is a reunion story and the heroine, Chloe Kastle is out for revenge.
As you can see I bounce back and forth between suspense and regular contemporary.
12: Dahlia: Sage like I said we love those cowboys. *smile*. What silver screen hottie would play a character in your favorite title?
I would have to say a younger Kurt Russell would play the part of Jack McBride in RECKLESS BEHAVIOR
13: Dahlia: Is there any scenes in your books that you find difficult to write?
For me any scene can be difficult for me to write, depending on my mood and motivation on any particular day. Now that I have some books under my belt, keeping the sex scenes new, but still hot can be difficult at times.
14: Dahlia: : If you could have one hot guy for a day to do your bidding who would it be and what will they be doing?
I’ll pick another actor for this. Richard Gere. To me, he just oozes sex appeal naturally. I’d be content to just look at him. With Richard Gere, first there would definitely be stimulating conversation followed by a long walk on the beach to enjoy the sunset. And now my imagination is working overtime...
15: Dahlia: Where can we find out more about you and your books Sage?
My Website addy is: http://www.patriciaparkinson.com My Space: http://www.myspace.com/rodeocowboys
I’d like to take this opportunity to thank you, Dahlia. Your questions were so interesting. I really enjoyed doing this interview. Thanks again.
That my friends was Sage Burnett the lady who gives us cowboys to fantasize about while our hunnies snooze. Her books are filled with romance and hot spicy lovers. So read one and you will have to read them all!!
Smooches
Dahlia Rose
The blog is late this weekend because well...eblogger would not let me in!! Would you belive it! But never fear I come bearing gifts!! An Interview with Sage Burnett! Now she has alot to say so read her interview and see what this lady has to say!!
**********
1: Dahlia: In our cyber interview chair today we have Sage Burnett author of Candy Man. Welcome Sage and tell us more about your most recent release!
CANDY MAN is a fun and hot contemporary Valentine’s story. Annie Chandler’s boyfriend stands her up and sends his co-worker, Scott Barnes to deliver candy and flowers to her. What happens after that is instant attraction on Scott’s part. Once Annie gets over her anger at being stood up, she finally notices how sexy Scott Barnes really is. After that the evening definitely heats up for the two of them.
2: Dahlia: You have a great set of titles under your belt. What is our inspiration for these books?
Whenever I am asked that question I have to pause because ideas and characters just pop into my head. Lately, titles have been popping into my head left and right which means I have to figure out stories to go with the titles. Since I write contemporary, every day life or my surroundings help inspire me.
3: Dahlia: We love the hot hunky cowboys on your covers. Is there any genre you haven’t tried that you are interested in writing in the future?
I keep thinking about paranormal or futuristic, but so far that’s as far as I’ve gotten with those ideas. lol.
4: Dahlia: What other releases do you have available for the readers. Could you give us a short blurb about it?
GUNPOINT, Steamy Contemporary Romantic Suspense from MGP.
COWBOY BLUES, Hot Contemporary Romance, also from MGP.
From Siren Publishing: LOVE’S REDEMPTION, Steamy Contemporary Romantic Suspense.
RODEO COWBOYS, The Series, Three Sizzling Contemporaries. MELANIE’S PROTECTOR, KARLY’S DRIFTER AND JOSIE’S HEARTBREAKER.
P.S. All of my stories take place in Montana. It’s kind of my trademark.
7: Dahlia: Are any of your books in print? Which ones and where readers could find them. RODEO COWBOYS, THE SERIES, Now at Amazon: http://www.sirenpublishing.com/sageburnett/rcs.asp I also have one book under my real name, Patricia Parkinson in print from Samhain. DEAD OF WINTER. Sensual contemporary romantic suspense. http://samhainpublishing.com/romance/dead-of-winter
8: Dahlia: So tell us Sage if there was one place in the world you could visit where would that be and would you use it as a setting in one of your books?
I’ve wanted to visit Paris since I was a teenager. Whether or not that fantasy will ever come true is another story. There’s just something about Paris and the French that is so undeniably sexy. And yes, I could see this Montana country girl writing a story about Paris, especially if I met an attractive French man. lol.
9: Dahlia: What other hats does Sage Burnett wear other than writer.
Right now for me writing is what I do full time. In the past I’ve had all kinds of jobs from a bartender to office and factory work. At the moment I’m single. I have a rowdy girl black lab, Madison, and two girl cats, Runt and Cody.
10: Dahlia: What are some of your favorite things in life? Foods, colors etc?
I absolutely love sweets. But I also love fruits and vegetables. Go figure. lol. I love to read. I also love to walk and in the summer do a lot of hiking in and around the Rocky Mountains. My favorite color changes every few years. It used to be pink, now it’s blue. And always black. That color never changes.
11: Dahlia: Are there any coming soon titles we should look for? Would you share a short blurb? UNDER TANNER’S THUMB releases April 1 from Siren Publishing. It’s a contemporary adult fairy tale. Light hearted and humorous. This was the first time I wrote a fairy tale and it was such great fun. The hero happens to be a cowboy. Hmmm...I wonder how that happened.
RECKLESS BEHAVIOR, is scheduled for release April 14 from MGP. Hot Contemporary Romantic Suspense. This particular book is one of my favorites because it’s darker than I usually write. The heroine believes that Jack the man who lives across the street is stalking her even though she is wildly attracted to him. No cowboys in this one, ladies. Jack, the hero builds houses.
I contracted VIRGIN THIEF with Phaze Publishing in February. Release date to be announced. Hot Contemporary Romance. This is a reunion story and the heroine, Chloe Kastle is out for revenge.
As you can see I bounce back and forth between suspense and regular contemporary.
12: Dahlia: Sage like I said we love those cowboys. *smile*. What silver screen hottie would play a character in your favorite title?
I would have to say a younger Kurt Russell would play the part of Jack McBride in RECKLESS BEHAVIOR
13: Dahlia: Is there any scenes in your books that you find difficult to write?
For me any scene can be difficult for me to write, depending on my mood and motivation on any particular day. Now that I have some books under my belt, keeping the sex scenes new, but still hot can be difficult at times.
14: Dahlia: : If you could have one hot guy for a day to do your bidding who would it be and what will they be doing?
I’ll pick another actor for this. Richard Gere. To me, he just oozes sex appeal naturally. I’d be content to just look at him. With Richard Gere, first there would definitely be stimulating conversation followed by a long walk on the beach to enjoy the sunset. And now my imagination is working overtime...
15: Dahlia: Where can we find out more about you and your books Sage?
My Website addy is: http://www.patriciaparkinson.com My Space: http://www.myspace.com/rodeocowboys
I’d like to take this opportunity to thank you, Dahlia. Your questions were so interesting. I really enjoyed doing this interview. Thanks again.
That my friends was Sage Burnett the lady who gives us cowboys to fantasize about while our hunnies snooze. Her books are filled with romance and hot spicy lovers. So read one and you will have to read them all!!
Smooches
Dahlia Rose
Friday, March 9, 2007
Good Morning Bloggers!!
Well, well you guys are up early. Today I have doubled your pleasure two exciting interviews for you today. With Skyler Grey and Selena Kitt! These interviews we spicy qnd fun so Ihope you enjoy them.
And some added information.....Drum roll please...brrrrrrrrtttttttttttttt!!
The Soul mate's Curse is#1 Bestseller at Star Dust Press!! *Dahlia Happy Dance*
For all of you who have read and been here with me when i nervously bite my nails pre debut of the book. Thank you!
Now go read the interview and Remember "Dance like there is no one watching!" that is my to do motto this weekend for all of us!
Smooches
Dahlia Rose
And some added information.....Drum roll please...brrrrrrrrtttttttttttttt!!
The Soul mate's Curse is#1 Bestseller at Star Dust Press!! *Dahlia Happy Dance*
For all of you who have read and been here with me when i nervously bite my nails pre debut of the book. Thank you!
Now go read the interview and Remember "Dance like there is no one watching!" that is my to do motto this weekend for all of us!
Smooches
Dahlia Rose
Skylers Grey is here to seduce us all!
What does month of a flame have to do with this author? Well its Skyler Grey of course. Read ob and see what this steamy author has to say!
1: Dahlia: Happy Friday Skyler! Thank you for being a part of my blog today! Could you tell us more about your writing career? How it started and progressed.
Thank you so much Dahlia for having me!
I started writing stories when I was nine thanks to my fifth grade teacher who use to have us write a composition paper that the class would take votes on. Mine always won, which was such a rush even at nine. Ha Later, I started writing poems when I was in my early teens, one piece I wrote while I was bawling my eyes out after watching, Choices of the Heart, which was based on a true story staring, Melissa Gilbert. It made everyone that read it cry. That sparked me into writing stories on notebook paper, which I lost over the years. It wasn’t until I was in my early thirties that I actually began to get serious with my writing, which is when I wrote my first novel. (using the computer this time) J
2: Dahlia: How do you find the inspiration for these wonderful books you bring to us?
My overwhelming love for romance, whether it’s on film or in a book. They ignite the spark that drives me to write fantasy Cinderella stories & not so Cinderella stories. I love all genres, so you’ll find tons of books in my personal library from Louis L’Amour, Johanna Lindsey, Ann Rice, Stephen King… the list goes on. J
3: Dahlia: There are some things that authors find difficult to write, maybe the emotional aspect of it. Is there anything that you would like to write that you have not done as yet?
Oh yes! I have a cousin who writes horror. Adra Steia, she’s extremely good but I’ve never thought of giving it a try personally until I started reading her books. But I do have a secret project I’m working on that I think might blow the socks off some of my reader’s.
4: Dahlia: What other books do you have available for all of us?
Below are my lists of books that are available now. J
Chamberlain’s Knight – time-travel erotica into the medieval era http://www.lovestruckbooks.com/skylergrey.html
The Black Rose – contemporary suspense erotica
http://www.lovestruckbooks.com/skylergrey.html
Christmas Candy Anthology – various Christmas treats by multiple authors
http://whiskeycreekpresstorrid.com/authors/Skyler_Grey.shtml
Masquerade Vol 1 – anthology of greek gods granting mortals their ultimate fantasies
http://www.aphroditesapples.com/skyler_grey.htm
Shameful Desires – paranormal erotica
http://www.mardigraspublishing.com/catalog/shamefuldesires.html
Upcoming releases are:
Diary of a House, 413 Remembrance Lane – anthology of a magic diary left behind to grant the tenant of the home any wish they so desire… for a price.
Available this August with, Phaze Publishing.
The Feel of Lace – contemporary erotica
Available soon through Aphrodite’s Apples Publishing.
7: Dahlia: If there was one place in the world you could visit where would it be and why?
Scotland! What I would give to rent a cottage on a cliff for a month or two. To walk the beaches and scour the lands. *sigh* I would just be blown away. Not to mention the castles I’d be hawking in search of a Scottish rogue wearing a kilt.
8: Dahlia: Do you have a favorite out of your titles? Which is it and why?
Absolutely! Ride the Wind, by Lucia St Clair Robson
If you get the chance to read it, it will take your breath away. I gave it to my middle daughter to read and she swears to this day it’s the best book she has ever read.
9: Dahlia: Are you a full time writer? What would we find you doing if you are not writing?
Yes and I love it! I was a nail tech for seventeen years and have been retired now for two. If I’m not writing, you will always find me at the baseball field with my boys or at the dojo. I’m gone 5 nights a week due to the demand of my athletic children. But I love it so it’s okay. ;)
10: Dahlia: What are some of your favorite things in life? Foods, colors etc?
Lobster & steak, dipped in buttery sauce & still mooing! Lilacs & pinks. If I had another little girl, I’d do her room in those colors with glass fairy’s hanging from her ceiling. I love, sci-fi movies, Lord of the Rings Trilogy was awesome. I love trolls, fairies, wizards, knights & dragons. I drive a truck, Chevy Avalanche. I love dogs & cats but I’m allergic to cats so I have to steal quick cuddles from my friends that own them & run wash my hands. I hate slap-stick comedy, it insults my brain but I admit, Hot Shots! Part Deux … did make me laugh. (I can’t believe I just admitted to that) I love horror movies, not gore, thriller suspense & romantic comedies, but my all time favorites are intense love stories. Ex: Legends of the Fall, Last of the Mohicans & The Notebook. The Passion of the Christ, also gripped my heart like no other. My favorite book when I was a little girl was, The Saggy Baggy Elephant. My favorite number is sixteen.
11: Dahlia: As writers we all have a few works in progress. Is there any you could tell us about to wet our appetites?
I’m in the process of writing a historical for one of my publishers, Aphrodite’s Apples, which will be released in their Regency Romp, Vol 2 series.
A western novel set in the Black Hills of Dakota involving a ½ breed Sioux Indian & a snotty little English aristocrat.
And of course that little secret I can’t talk about right now. J
12: Dahlia: What hottie from the silver screen would play a character in your favorite book?
Oh, my, gosh! I don’t know this guys name but he is, in my opinion, the epitome of what I would have my ultimate alpha male look like. I use to have a picture of him on my website but have tweaked it since & decided to take him off. Why, I don’t know but if anyone would truly like to see him, I’ll be glad to shoot a picture of him over to you if you e-mail me. I tucked him away in my private little album of hotties. ;)
13: Dahlia: Are their any mottos in life you would like to share with your readers?
Well, my girls like to say, “What doesn’t kill you only makes you stronger.” Ha
I personally like to say, “It’s not how other see you that matters. What matters is how you see yourself.”
14: Dahlia: : If you could have one hot guy for a day to do your bidding who would it be and what will they be doing?
Only one day? L lol My alpha male, the Italian model with no name. *grin*
We’d be alone in that cottage on the cliff & he would seduce me like an erotica romance novel. *fanning self*
15: Dahlia: Finally Skyler, tell us where we could find out more about you and your books.
Visit my website & Myspace anytime & join my newsletter or e-mail me. Also, I’m a member of Sultry Sirens, The Romance Room & Rites of Romance Reviews, where you can come by anytime to hang out. J
Website:
http://skylersromance.tripod.com/skylerscove/
Myspace:
http://www.myspace.com/skyler_grey
Sultry Sirens:
http://groups.yahoo.com/group/sultrysirens/
The Romance Room:
http://groups.yahoo.com/group/theromanceroom/
Rites of Romance Reviews
http://groups.yahoo.com/group/RoRRChatters/
or E-mail:
skylers_romance@yahoo.com
I want to thank you Dahlia, for this wonderful opportunity to share a little part of myself with you. I thoroughly enjoyed it & look forward to visiting with you again soon.
In the meantime, sultry dreams…
Skyler
Do you like fire and heat to pour out of the pages of a book? Well this was in interview with Skyler Grey. This author raises the heat index and takes out temperatures to boil.
Till I see you all again!
Smooches
Dahlia Rose
1: Dahlia: Happy Friday Skyler! Thank you for being a part of my blog today! Could you tell us more about your writing career? How it started and progressed.
Thank you so much Dahlia for having me!
I started writing stories when I was nine thanks to my fifth grade teacher who use to have us write a composition paper that the class would take votes on. Mine always won, which was such a rush even at nine. Ha Later, I started writing poems when I was in my early teens, one piece I wrote while I was bawling my eyes out after watching, Choices of the Heart, which was based on a true story staring, Melissa Gilbert. It made everyone that read it cry. That sparked me into writing stories on notebook paper, which I lost over the years. It wasn’t until I was in my early thirties that I actually began to get serious with my writing, which is when I wrote my first novel. (using the computer this time) J
2: Dahlia: How do you find the inspiration for these wonderful books you bring to us?
My overwhelming love for romance, whether it’s on film or in a book. They ignite the spark that drives me to write fantasy Cinderella stories & not so Cinderella stories.
3: Dahlia: There are some things that authors find difficult to write, maybe the emotional aspect of it. Is there anything that you would like to write that you have not done as yet?
Oh yes! I have a cousin who writes horror. Adra Steia, she’s extremely good but I’ve never thought of giving it a try personally until I started reading her books. But I do have a secret project I’m working on that I think might blow the socks off some of my reader’s.
Below are my lists of books that are available now. J
Chamberlain’s Knight – time-travel erotica into the medieval era http://www.lovestruckbooks.com/skylergrey.html
The Black Rose – contemporary suspense erotica
http://www.lovestruckbooks.com/skylergrey.html
Christmas Candy Anthology – various Christmas treats by multiple authors
http://whiskeycreekpresstorrid.com/authors/Skyler_Grey.shtml
Masquerade Vol 1 – anthology of greek gods granting mortals their ultimate fantasies
http://www.aphroditesapples.com/skyler_grey.htm
Shameful Desires – paranormal erotica
http://www.mardigraspublishing.com/catalog/shamefuldesires.html
Upcoming releases are:
Diary of a House, 413 Remembrance Lane – anthology of a magic diary left behind to grant the tenant of the home any wish they so desire… for a price.
Available this August with, Phaze Publishing.
The Feel of Lace – contemporary erotica
Available soon through Aphrodite’s Apples Publishing.
7: Dahlia: If there was one place in the world you could visit where would it be and why?
Scotland! What I would give to rent a cottage on a cliff for a month or two. To walk the beaches and scour the lands. *sigh* I would just be blown away. Not to mention the castles I’d be hawking in search of a Scottish rogue wearing a kilt.
8: Dahlia: Do you have a favorite out of your titles? Which is it and why?
Absolutely! Ride the Wind, by Lucia St Clair Robson
If you get the chance to read it, it will take your breath away. I gave it to my middle daughter to read and she swears to this day it’s the best book she has ever read.
9: Dahlia: Are you a full time writer? What would we find you doing if you are not writing?
Yes and I love it! I was a nail tech for seventeen years and have been retired now for two. If I’m not writing, you will always find me at the baseball field with my boys or at the dojo. I’m gone 5 nights a week due to the demand of my athletic children. But I love it so it’s okay. ;)
10: Dahlia: What are some of your favorite things in life? Foods, colors etc?
Lobster & steak, dipped in buttery sauce & still mooing! Lilacs & pinks. If I had another little girl, I’d do her room in those colors with glass fairy’s hanging from her ceiling. I love, sci-fi movies, Lord of the Rings Trilogy was awesome. I love trolls, fairies, wizards, knights & dragons. I drive a truck, Chevy Avalanche. I love dogs & cats but I’m allergic to cats so I have to steal quick cuddles from my friends that own them & run wash my hands. I hate slap-stick comedy, it insults my brain but I admit, Hot Shots! Part Deux … did make me laugh. (I can’t believe I just admitted to that) I love horror movies, not gore, thriller suspense & romantic comedies, but my all time favorites are intense love stories. Ex: Legends of the Fall, Last of the Mohicans & The Notebook. The Passion of the Christ, also gripped my heart like no other. My favorite book when I was a little girl was, The Saggy Baggy Elephant. My favorite number is sixteen.
11: Dahlia: As writers we all have a few works in progress. Is there any you could tell us about to wet our appetites?
A western novel set in the Black Hills of Dakota involving a ½ breed Sioux Indian & a snotty little English aristocrat.
And of course that little secret I can’t talk about right now. J
12: Dahlia: What hottie from the silver screen would play a character in your favorite book?
Oh, my, gosh! I don’t know this guys name but he is, in my opinion, the epitome of what I would have my ultimate alpha male look like. I use to have a picture of him on my website but have tweaked it since & decided to take him off. Why, I don’t know but if anyone would truly like to see him, I’ll be glad to shoot a picture of him over to you if you e-mail me. I tucked him away in my private little album of hotties. ;)
13: Dahlia: Are their any mottos in life you would like to share with your readers?
Well, my girls like to say, “What doesn’t kill you only makes you stronger.” Ha
I personally like to say, “It’s not how other see you that matters. What matters is how you see yourself.”
14: Dahlia: : If you could have one hot guy for a day to do your bidding who would it be and what will they be doing?
Only one day? L lol My alpha male, the Italian model with no name. *grin*
We’d be alone in that cottage on the cliff & he would seduce me like an erotica romance novel. *fanning self*
15: Dahlia: Finally Skyler, tell us where we could find out more about you and your books.
Visit my website & Myspace anytime & join my newsletter or e-mail me. Also, I’m a member of Sultry Sirens, The Romance Room & Rites of Romance Reviews, where you can come by anytime to hang out. J
Website:
http://skylersromance.tripod.com/skylerscove/
Myspace:
http://www.myspace.com/skyler_grey
Sultry Sirens:
http://groups.yahoo.com/group/sultrysirens/
The Romance Room:
http://groups.yahoo.com/group/theromanceroom/
Rites of Romance Reviews
http://groups.yahoo.com/group/RoRRChatters/
or E-mail:
skylers_romance@yahoo.com
I want to thank you Dahlia, for this wonderful opportunity to share a little part of myself with you. I thoroughly enjoyed it & look forward to visiting with you again soon.
In the meantime, sultry dreams…
Skyler
Do you like fire and heat to pour out of the pages of a book? Well this was in interview with Skyler Grey. This author raises the heat index and takes out temperatures to boil.
Till I see you all again!
Smooches
Dahlia Rose
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