HUMP-DAY HUNK -- Victor Webster

Current read: Maverick Heart by Joan Johnston


Tall, dark, and sexy, anyone? Thirty-six year old Victor is a daytime drama, The Lot, Mutant X, and Charmed alum. And though he hails from Canada, he's actually of Italian, Spanish, German, French, English, and Scottish descent. Can't go wrong there. This 6' 3" hottie holds a blackbelt in taekwondo, just like yours truly! The next photo's a killer, ladies...

Congratulations Lisa! April Madness, Here I Come...

Current read: Maverick Heart by Joan Johnston

Lisa, you're the winner of Nicole's book, Woman of Honor. She will contact you with the details.

For April, I've joined Anne Marie Novark's Book in a Month April Madness. I need a kick in the pants, and this should do it. Anne Marie modeled April Madness off of NaNoWriMo and April Kihlstrom's "Book in a Week" course. There is no required word count, just write like mad for a month. If you're interested in checking it out, email Anne Marie at am@annemarienovark.com. Next Tuesday, I'll post my goals for April. But for now, I'm crunching to finish my goals for March!

Be sure to come back tomorrow for a new hunk. Until then, happy writing!

MONDAY'S HERO -- Caelan from Woman of Honor

Current read: Hot Silk by Sharon Page

Here we are on the last Monday of March already! Amazing how quickly time flies. Today I'd like to introduce Nicole Zoltack, another author I met through the Mama Writers loop. Her fantasy romance, Woman of Honor, released on Friday at Desert Breeze Publishing. Nicole, tell us a little about Woman of Honor.

Update from Nicole -- Leave a comment, and one lucky poster will win a copy of Woman of Honor!

I have always been obsessed with the Middle Ages. I just love everything about the knights, and honor, and chivalry, when men were proud of their ladies, worked hard to be champions, and did everything to keep their women happy. I know not everything was perfect back then, that many knights abused their power, but, what can I say? I’m a romantic so I romanticize knights. I even talked my hubby into a Renaissance themed wedding!

Anyhow, while doing research for another WIP, I discovered that some females had actually been knighted. These brave females had saved their town from a Moor attack and were rewarded many liberties such as tax exception for their actions. This led me to think of a young girl who wanted to be a knight and asked the King if she could, citing these woman as proof that women could do their part. And so, Aislinn was born.

Blurb:

Aislinn of Bairbhe dreams of becoming a lady knight to honor the death of her fallen brother. To her mother's horror, King Patrick grants Aislinn's wish and she begins her long years of training.Despite the mockery of the other pages, and the disdain of Prince Caelan who also trains to be a knight, Aislinn commits herself to her dreams and embarks on a journey of self-discovery and bravery. Through the years, Aislinn and Caelan grow from sparing classmates to good friends. They both know that someday Caelan will marry for the sake of the kingdom, but even that cannot keep them from falling in love.The threat of war with the Speicans is a constant threat, and one that grows more frightening as she and Caelan train toward their eventual knighthood. Aislinn has committed herself to serving Arnhem, and has promised herself as King's Champion when Caelan claims the throne. She is willing to give up everything... her childhood, her life, even her heart for Arnhem. No matter the pain it brings.

I love the Middle Ages, too. I visit our local Renaissance faire every summer, and my sister-in-law was married there. So I bet your wedding was wonderful! And I love the name of your heroine, Aislinn. That's the name of the heroine in Kathleen Woodiwiss's The Wolf and the Dove, which is on my keeper shelf. But let's talk about your hero, Caelan.

Caelan has his mother’s sapphire eyes and father’s dark, almost black, hair. As a knight, he is rather muscular, tall, and graceful both with a sword in his hand and on the ballroom floor. He is definitely someone you would love to have hold you, wrapped in his warmth and strong arms.

He wants to have Aislinn at his side, for Arnhem to enter a time of peace, and to be a king that is loved and respected by his people. But Aislinn, first and foremost. He is rather romantic, which clashes with his being royalty. Aislinn, although noble born, isn’t a princess. He's romantic, strong willed, and determined. Nothing keeps him from what (or who!) he wants.

He sounds like a perfect hero. What attracts him to Aislinn?

Caelan is drawn to Aislinn for her spunk, drive, and determination. When he first meets her, she’s a small girl, puny even, and he can’t believe that she wants to become a knight. At first, Aislinn can’t stand the prince, believing him to receive special graces because of his royal blood. But as they grow older and Caelan helps her despite her never asking for it, their rivalry is set aside for friendship and later on, something even greater.

How did you create Caelan?

Caelan drew himself. He loved to tease Aislinn, give her a hard time and he was very easy to create. Since the story centered on Aislinn, I needed someone who could push her buttons and Caelan does that exceptionally well. Much to Aislinn’s chagrin.

I may have given Caelan some of my husband’s characteristics. Some good, some bad. *wink*

As I was describing Caelan in the book, I tried to think of an actor that he reminded me of and finally realized that he looks like Gerard Butler but with even brighter, more vibrant blue eyes. I just loved Gerard in Timeline, great movie by the way! Romance, time travel to the Middle Ages, action, great looking actors, what else could you ask for?

*Sigh* My blog readers know Gerard is my favorite hottie. What a great visual for Caelan! What else are you working on, Nicole?

I’m already working on Knight of Glory, the sequel to Woman of Honor. This story continues where Book 1 leaves off, this time centering on Geoffrey, a knight who grew up with Aislinn and Caelan. He deserves a happy ever after but, let me assure you, the road to get there is going to be quite bumpy and maybe a little dangerous too.

In addition, I have so many other WIPs that it’s making my fingers sore typing ‘em and my head ache from trying to keep them all straight!

My only other release is under my pen name, Nicolette Zamora. From Freya’s Bower, One Touch, One Glance: A Sweet Romance Anthology is a collection of 18 different stories from many talented authors. My contribution, Little Cowgirl, was my first ever release.

I have a website: http://www.freewebs.com/NicoleZoltack/. I also have a facebook http://www.facebook.com/people/Nicole-Zoltack/52400598 and myspace page http://profile.myspace.com/index.cfm?fuseaction=user.viewprofile&friendid=246542395 , and follow me on twitter http://www.twitter.com/NicoleZoltack . Finally, you can reach me by email: Nicole.Zoltack@gmail.com.

Sounds like you're keeping busy! And now for my fun question -- tell us something about yourself that might surprise people.

I actually received my BS in chemistry with a concentration in forensic science. I knew that making a living from my writing would be an extremely difficult, if not impossible task, so I went to school to find a means to support myself. I wanted to be a crime scene investigator (no, I never watched an episode of the show). Anyhow, for a couple years, I worked as an organic chemist at an environmental laboratory. Then I got pregnant and now I work two full time jobs: stay at home mommy and author. It’s tiring but completely worth it.

As a stay-at-home mom and author myself, I can attest that it is tiring, but worth it! Thank you so much, Nicole. Woman of Honor is bound to please. Read on for an excerpt.

Caelan looked down at their hands, turning hers over so his fingertips could brush her palm. A shiver ran down Aislinn’s spine and her cheeks bloomed hot. She knew the effect of his touch had to be evident to him, but felt no embarrassment because it was clear that he was not unaffected. Caelan drew in a long, deep breath and folded his hand over hers.

“I have been trying to save myself.”

“From what?” Aislinn bit her lower lip to stop herself from speaking further. All she’d done was ask him questions.

“Aislinn,” he said softly, and his eyes slid for a moment to look at the bookshelf where they had kissed. “Do you remember our kiss?”

She blushed. “Yes. Of course.”

“I wanted you very badly then. But you weren’t ready to be with me or anyone else.”

“Then…”

He leaned a little closer so their faces were only inches apart. In this part of the library, the way they sat, no one would see them unless they intentionally approached the table. It was late and the library was nearly empty, so Aislinn doubted they would need to explain to anyone why the crown prince and would-be lady knight sat so close together.

“Are you ready now, Aislinn?”

Aislinn closed her eyes and drew in a deep breath. She thought about Catherina, about how much she loved the little girl, about how cruel the world had been to the child. She thought about her parents, about how happy they were, about the love they shared. And she thought about all the times she’d spent with Caelan since coming to the castle. She’d despised him once, but now she couldn’t picture her days without him. She smiled when he came into a room, and she looked forward to dinner just so they could talk. Her heart nearly broke whenever she thought of all the times he’d been hurt, or could have died. Not because he was the prince and would someday rule the kingdom, but because he was Caelan.

She opened her eyes to find him still watching her, waiting for her answer.

“Yes,” she whispered.

Caelan smiled, but the smile didn’t quite reach his sapphire eyes. He raised his hand and laid the back of his fingers against her cheek. His skin was warm and Aislinn leaned into the touch. Caelan turned his hand and laid his palm against her cheek, his thumb brushing her lip. She closed her eyes and enjoyed the soft, gentle touch.

“Nothing will save me now,” he said softly — so softly she almost didn’t hear him — before he moved closer and touched his lips to hers.

I'm Twittering...

Current read: Hot Silk by Sharon Page

I finally broke down and joined Twitter. You can find me as HelenHardt. So if you're on Twitter, let me know! I'll eventually figure the whole thing out, LOL.

I'm looking out my office window at a winter wonderland. Yes, it's spring break here in Colorado, and we had a blizzard yesterday. Sound strange? Not for Colorado ;). We're notorious for 70 degrees one day, snow the next. Of course, my boys are mad because it's spring break, so school can't be canceled.

If you haven't already, you can still get your entry in for the Lion/Lamb contest. Here are the details:

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

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

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

Not much else going on with me today. I'll be racing to complete my March goals by Tuesday. Here's a little inspiration in the form of my current favorite hottie, Caco Ricci. Enjoy your weekend!

HUMP-DAY HUNK -- Antonio Banderas

Current read: Risque Business by Tawny Weber
We've come to the end of "Hunks over Forty" month, and I like to go out with style ;). Spanish heartthrob Antonio is forty-eight, and his dark and smoldering sensuality is still as hot as ever. Though the photo below is the most recent, I had to feature the one above -- you all know how I feel about long hair on a man. *sigh*

MONDAY'S HERO -- Caleb from Lights Out

Current read: Shaken and Stirred by Kathleen O'Reilly

Today it's my pleasure to introduce debut author Ann Campbell. Her short release, Lights Out, is currently number two on the bestseller list at The Wilder Roses.

Good morning, Ann. Tell us how you came up with the idea behind Lights Out.

I really don't know. I was just starting to experiment with writing and decided to try my hand at a short story and it just started to form.

Blurb:
Spending time with your best friend makes life on the mountain perfect. But when your best friend is the man who stars every night in her most erotic fantasy--and has a girlfriend--what’s a girl to do? Forced to spend the night alone with Caleb and trapped by a snow storm, Payton finds herself yearning to do much more than talk to pass the long hours.

Caleb has spent the past four years harboring secret fantasies about Payton. When the lights suddenly go out and they find themselves surrounded by candles, will they realize they could be more than just friends?

Describe Caleb for us.

He's tall, blonde and sexy, and he wants to share his life with a wonderful woman.

What draws him to the heroine, Payton?

A good friendship and the fact that he finds her very sexy.

What draws her to him?

He is sexy as hell and her best friend.

I think everyone enjoys a friendship to love story. I know I do. What inspired you to create Caleb? Is there a little bit of anyone you know in him?

If I tell you then he might find out! LOL. I modeled him after a guy I worked with. He and I were good friends but never could date because he was in a relationship. I still talk to him about two times a year, and every once in awhile we laugh about the sexual tension we had when we worked together. There is a lot of someone I know in my hero.

Wow, what a great inspiration! What is on the horizon for you?

I have a few WIPS that are being worked on. A couple are erotic and a few are not.

How can readers keep up with your work?

My Web site www.anncampbell.webs.com.

And my fun question -- would you share something about yourself that might surprise people?

I am about as redneck as a person can get without being trashy, LOL! I have the trailer, the two toned car, the chickens in the back yard.

Thank you so much, Ann! Readers, here's an excerpt. Warning: Adults only, explicit sex and language.

When the door opened behind her, Payton sank deeper into the tub as Caleb took two steps which brought him even with the tub. She sensed he was near, but kept her eyes closed. When she heard him set the candle down on the floor, she opened her eyes and found herself staring directly into his as he crouched beside her.

“You said you wouldn’t look.” Licking her lips, she scanned the naked expanse of his muscular chest.

A smile played at his lips. “I lied.”

As he straightened, she watched his gaze travel hungrily over her body, and her nipples tightened. She drank in the sight of him standing over her in all his masculine glory, from his slightly tousled hair to the considerable bulge in his jeans. Payton expected her cheeks to flood with heat in embarrassment, but who was she kidding this was Caleb looking down on her with desire burning in his gaze. This was what she had wanted for years. Instead, her breath caught with anticipation of what could come next, of what she wanted to come next.

“Any man who wouldn’t lie to get the chance to see you naked in the tub should be shot for being stupid.”

She tried not to show too much emotion into her voice as she gazed up at him. “Why didn’t you tell me about you and Angela?”

“Would it have made any difference to our friendship if I had told you when it happened?” He swallowed audibly. “Would it have changed anything between us?”

A rush of molten heat flooded her lower abdomen. In a moment of courage, Payton placed slightly trembling hands on both sides of the tub. She sat up and turned toward him. Reaching out, she hooked one finger through the denim belt loop and pulled him closer.

“Maybe,” she whispered.

Please Welcome Author Sarah Simas!

Current read: Seventh Heaven by Cate Masters

Today I'm pleased to welcome aspiring author Sarah Simas. Sarah and I met on the Mama Writers loop. Her current WIP is based in the Regency Era and aimed at being single title. She's a member of the KC Writers and Yosemite Romance Writers Chapter. When she's not writing, she's busy doing the full-time job of a stay-at-home mom. Sarah lives in the Central Valley of California with her husband of seven years and their two kids. Take it away, Sarah!

How Do You Hero?

Before marriage, I was a serial dater. What does that have to with my hero? Simple. If it hadn’t been for guys like ‘Sand Box Boy’ or ‘Psycho Stalker,' I wouldn’t have compiled a mental list of what an ideal man should possess. I started the “wish-list” as something fun to do with my roommates, never knowing I’d some day draw upon those late night gab-fests as writing material.

Last summer, when I decided to start my book, I was at odds on how to shape my leading man. I wanted him to be real, yet also someone women would lust after and revere. Let’s face it, finding a good man and winning the lottery have similar odds! A hero needs to be something special. The Holy Grail of Men so-to-speak.

My husband jokes around saying women would be happy with men in general, if not for romance novels. When I asked him to elaborate, he shrugged and said no such men could exist except in fiction. Sure I laughed, but then I sat back and thought about what he was really saying. Women readers want the man who will pull their hair during sex, but then go get them a glass of water afterwards! We want the good guy and the naughty boy rolled into one shiny package. (If only such were available in a catalog!)

Amazing! Here I’d spent days laboring over the perfect equation for creating the next Rhett Butler and the facts were right in front of me all along. A hero needs to linger on your lips like a fine wine, but still pack a punch enough to make you crave more. So when I write my hero’s scenes, I remember what I wanted in a man when I was on the hunt, but also try to tie in the character arch most human men seem to have evolved away from!

I’d never admit it to him, but maybe my hubby is right, romance novels can warp women’s expectations of men. But what a delusion to endure! I love my big-guy more than life itself, but I sure love being engulfed in book with an alpha-male I don’t have to pick up after, too!

So, the next time you feel lost channeling a hero, think back to your own “dream man” and those heroes that left you panting. Make it fun! Get a ‘frosty beverage’ and call up your old ‘hunting buddies’. With a little imagination and a lot of laughs, you’ll be on the way to creating your own winning hero combination. Sometimes, the answers we seek are the ones we already have and didn’t know!

Sarah, that was a great take on hero creation! Thank you for being here. Keep your eyes on Sarah, folks, she's going places. Visit her blog at http://www.thelovestrucknovice.blogspot.com/.

I'll post a couple of her favorite hotties below. And if that isn't enough for you ;), head over to http://www.coloradovixens.blogspot.com/. It's my turn to post today's hunk for TGIF (That Guy is Fine.)

Enjoy your weekend!

HUMP-DAY HUNK -- Jon Bon Jovi

Current read: Unleashed by Lori Borrill


You all knew I'd get to a rock star sooner or later, didn't you? Like a fine wine (and unlike most other rock stars) Jon has gotten better with age. He's forty-seven, and the tousled blond hair still works and those gorgeous eyes still sparkle. I love rugged handsome. He's a legend, ladies. Enjoy!

At the Pepsi Center in Denver, April 2008.

MONDAY'S HERO -- Rafe from Touch of the Demon

Current read: Unleashed by Lori Borrill

Hi everyone -- today I'm excited to have my good friend Christina Phillips visiting. Her second erotic romance, Touch of the Demon, released on Friday at The Wilder Roses, and you don't want to miss it! Christina's trademark elegance is present on every page. And I'm honored to be included in her dedication!

Christina, as always, welcome!

Hi Helen, and thanks so much for having me on your blog today!

You're very welcome! I loved Touch of the Demon. You have a very unique paranormal voice. I'm curious how you came up with the idea.

Unlike my first Scarlet Rosette which bubbled around in my sub-conscious for years, the basic plot for Touch of the Demon literally fell into my brain one night while I was at the computer doing some correspondence. I was so excited by the premise I dropped everything, including the paranormal I'd been struggling with, opened up a document that night and just started writing!

Blurb:

Dark angel Rafe travels back in time to destroy the woman who is fated to bring untold chaos to the cosmos. Instead, he finds Celeste, a child of the Earth Goddess, who is sworn to protect the one Rafe seeks. He mistakes her for his quarry but an irresistible attraction prevents him from taking her soul. And although Celeste holds the one weapon capable of banishing Rafe from Earth forever, she's unable to deny the overwhelming desire to possess this creature from hell. They come together in a frenzy of passion, each believing they are changing destiny by their actions. But when the Earth Goddess appears they discover her plans are more far reaching than either had imagined.

I found Rafe to be very intriguing. Tell us a little about him.

Rafe is a dark angel, who unfortunately lost his wings in a misplaced bet with a siren a hundred years ago. Even without his wings he is absolutely magnificent. Tall, dark hair a little long (I love heroes who have hair a little on the long side!!) a fabulously ripped body, dark eyes and sardonic smile.

What he wants most is to regain his wings. He'd do anything to get them back, even something which under normal circumstances he wouldn't contemplate. He is forceful, compelling and, after he meets Celeste and much to his surprise, protective.

I am so with you on the longer hair. All my heroes have it, as well. How does the relationship develop between Rafe and Celeste?

Rafe is initially drawn to the heroine because he's been sent back in time to find her and eliminate her. However, once he does find her he's first of all shocked to discover he's attracted to her and then intrigued and fascinated by everything she says and does.

Celeste has been waiting years for Rafe to appear so she can destroy him. Unfortunately, she's so mesmerised by his physical appearance when he does arrive she misses her chance. But by then she's hopelessly ensnared.

Who or what inspired you to create Rafe?

I'm not sure I had much to do with creating Rafe. He literally exploded into my mind fully formed, dark, brooding and full of attitude. At first I couldn't figure out why he was after Celeste so I had to dig a bit... that was fun...

There isn't much of anyone I know in him, at least not consciously! Although maybe there is a touch of my own real life hero in Rafe when he discovers he possesses a protective streak for the woman he's come to love.

Are there any celebrities who capture Rafe's look?

Oh, I would love to say Rafe was inspired by a particular celebrity, but unfortunately my brain doesn't work that way. I just have this image in my head of a gorgeous bad ass angel. However! Just before Christmas while enjoying friends' blogs, I stumbled across a photo of a guy who, in my mind, is a total fallen angel (just add wings - halo optional!!!) While he doesn't exactly remind me of Rafe, he does remind me of another hero I've just finished polishing, and who, surprise surprise! is a fallen angel himself!! The name of this beautiful man is, of course, Henri Castelli!!!

Hon, you know I never need an excuse to post Henri! The hero in my upcoming western historical novella, The Outlaw's Angel, bears a striking resemblance to him ;). What else are you up to these days, Christina?

Currently, I've just finished an erotic romance novella about a fallen angel (see above. See Henri....*happy sigh*) I really love this one and have everything crossed it will see the light of day. I'm also still finishing off my stubborn Roman, who unfortunately got pushed to one side at the end of last year while I concentrated on other projects. But the end is in sight! I've also another full length novel on the bubble, which ties in with my angel novella.

My debut Scarlet Rosette, Foretaste of Forever, about a witch who will do anything to be with the man she loves, is available from The Wild Rose Press.

Readers can keep up with my over at my blog, which I try to update several times a week. I also have a website and MySpace.

Trailer for Touch of the Demon

I'm glad to hear you have a new erotic novella on the horizon. And a hero who looks like Henri? It's bound to be a winner. I have a new question since you were here last -- could you share something about yourself that might surprise people?

My books aren't, to some people's astonishment, autobiographical!!!

LOL! I thought you were going to say something about Clive Owen... Thanks so much for being here again, Christina. For those of you who haven't had the pleasure of Touch of the Demon yet, here's a taste of Rafe:

“I’ll beg you for nothing.” It was a lie. If Celeste thought begging could get her anywhere, then she would already be on her knees before him. She kept that knowledge locked deep in her heart.

Rafe took a step toward her and her heart hammered in her breast. He was taller than any human she had known over the years. But then, he wasn’t human. Beneath the long leather coat he wore against the night’s chill air, his broad shoulders all but blotted out the rest of the world.

She sucked in a suddenly panicked breath, and his evocative scent of other worldly essences, meshed with hot, heavy male enveloped her. Against every principle she stood for, her nipples strained against the fabric of her bodice, peaking with desire and disgust and pure, animal heat.

A mocking smile twisted his full sensual lips. “I could make you beg, human.” His finger traced the outline of her face and she shuddered, hating the way she reacted and yet unable to help herself. “I might even listen to your pleas.” His smoky whisper shimmered along her senses, searing with words unsaid.

Amazing New Cover Art for THAI'D UP

Current read: Touch of the Demon by Christina Phillips



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

Blurb:

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

Now I'm signing off to go party with my lovely friend Christina Phillips. Her erotic short, Touch of the Demon, released today at The Wilder Roses. Be sure to check it out!

Want to Meet Sherrilyn Kenyon?

Join us for an evening of Story Alchemy with Sherrilyn Kenyon and Dianna Love!

May 1, 2009, 4:30 - 10:00 PM

Radisson Graystone Castle, Denver, Colorado!

Ever dream of spending an evening with your favorite authors, swapping stories over a delicious dinner, chatting about your favorite characters, and listening to an inspiring tale of perseverance and hard work? Friday, May 1st, is your chance to attend this special event!

Guests will receive two brand new, signed books personally given to them by Sherrilyn Kenyon and Dianna Love. Four lucky attendees - names drawn at random- will be invited to dine at Sherrilyn and Dianna's table for extra one-on-one time with your favorite authors! Everyone will have a chance to hear Sherrilyn Kenyon's keynote address and network with many other authors and readers. And stick around for our Free Psychic Hour, where local psychics are offering free ten minute readings.

Register early! Tickets are available on a first-come, first-served basis and are limited to just 30 participants!

4:30-6:00 PM -- Book signing and autograph session (open to the public!)

6:00-7:00 PM -- Silent auction and cocktail party (cash bar)

7:00-9:00 PM -- Dinner with Sherrilyn Kenyon and Dianna Love

9:00-10:00 PM -- Networking and Fun Psychic Hour

*Special event registration $75 - includes $30 plated dinner, two signed books, Sherrilyn Kenyon's keynote speech, participation in a drawing to sit with Sherrilyn and Dianna at dinner (only 4 lucky participants win this!), and a psychic extravaganza for one hour after dinner. See you there!

For more information, visit Colorado Romance Writers or contact rtrcoordinator@coloradoromancewriters.org

HUMP-DAY HUNK -- Patrick Dempsey

Current read: Trio (Kensington Aphrodisia Anthology)
Has forty-three ever looked hotter? *sigh* How many of you are old enough to remember Patrick's role as Kate Jackson's son in Loverboy? The anchovy pizza? LOL. He's come such a long way... Those eyes get me every time. And how sexy is a man holding a baby? You tell me.

MONDAY'S HEROES -- Wayde and James from Under the Covers

Current read: Trio (Kensington Aphrodisia Anthology)

Yes, you read that correctly -- today we have two heroes to celebrate! Eve Adams's current release at Siren Publishing, Under the Covers, is an erotic romance featuring a menage a trois. Eve and I met through the Mama Writers blog where we are both contributors.

Eve, it's great to have you here! I know my readers, as well as I, are curious how you came up with the idea for this menage.

I attended a broadway show (Phantom of the Opera--POTO) and saw this gorgeous woman with very good looking men on each arm. Although she seemed at ease, you could tell by her body language that she didn't really know these two men, at least not as well as you'd expect seeing her on each of their arms. I started to wonder exactly how she got there. Why did she have a man on each arm? As I sat through the performance, an image started to form in my mind. Because POTO is really the ultimate love triangle, I couldn't help but create another story of a love triangle, one of a woman who was "hired" out as an escort. But I took it a step further. What if she really didn't want to be there? What if there were circumstances that drove her to be an escort? Thus Mia's story began...

Here's the blurb:
Desperate to find her missing sister, Mia Andrews follows her trail to an underground sex ring where women are sold off every night. Under cover as a courtesan, the only way to find her sister is to go in with no holds barred.

Undercover Agent Wayde Davis bids on the sexy-as-sin Mia the instant she wobbles out onto the stage in 4-inch stilettos. She fits the profile of the missing women and may be next. If protecting her means taking her to bed, he'd be more than willing to make that sacrifice.

Painfully shy, high-roller James Pearce wants the beautiful Mia as his permanent courtesan. He also knows his unique fetish requires the help of another man, one so taken with Mia he's willing to do anything to stay by her side--even share her.

Her desperation drives her into both their arms. Her pleasure drives them all to the boiling point!In the dark world of underground sex clubs, there is more to lose than your innocence when working UNDER (the) COVER(s)...

Two heroes for the price of one -- tell us about Wayde and James.

I'm am absolutely in love with the Phantom from POTO. Physically, Gerard Butler from the movie is my alpha hero, Wayde Davis. Those steely gray eyes, that midnight black hair, and oh that smile! His features are unnerving and handsomely arrogant, like he was chiseled from granite to be absolutely perfect. As an SBI agent, what he wants most out of life is to save the world from the dark side of human kind. As a man, what he wants most out of life is Mia Andrews--to love her, protect her, and be loved in return. Wayde is protective, loyal, and fierce.

My second hero, James Pearce, is more jovial in his appearance than Wayde. Playful blond hair, dancing brilliant blue eyes, and enormous...ahem...features. I've always pictured Jude Law as my James Pearce. With that charismatic smile that makes his eyes dance, Jude Law is physically a perfect match for James Pearce. What James wants out of life is to be free to love who he wants, when he wants, how he wants. He is rich beyond all imagination and has the power to match his wealth. James has odd fetishes that require an additional person (I won't go into detail), which introduces the menage into Mia and Wayde's relationship. James is jovial, powerful, and perceptive.

Ah, Gerard Butler...but back to the interview ;). How are both of these men drawn to your heroine, Mia?

Wayde is immediately drawn to Mia the instant he sees her on the stage. He can tell she doesn't belong in the club and his protective nature goes into overdrive. At first he wants to protect her, but then he falls in love with her. Mia is drawn to Wayde the first night in the club. He's dark, mysterious, and devilishly handsome. Her body responds at just the thought of them having anything together, both inside the club and out. When James first sees Mia, he is instantly captivated by everything about her. Because Wayde won't leave her side, James invites Wayde to join him and Mia after James wins her bid.

Who or what inspired you to create Wayde and James? Is there a little bit of someone you know in them?

The Phantom in POTO is Wayde Davis, down to that deep baritone voice. Jude Law is James Pearce. I love that smile. Whether there is someone I know in each of them, I'll never tell!

What projects are you working on right now?

All of my menage books are released as Eve Adams. I just finished a menage novella as part of the Tasty Treats Anthology being put out by Siren-Bookstrand, Inc. It is titled Riding Lessons and is set on a Montana ranch. The byline of the story is, "Two cowboys show a city girl exactly how a country boy survives." Because it is short (21K words) and the characters demanded their entire story be told, I'm now working on Riding the Fence, which is a continuation of their story. I'm also working on Riding Double, which is another menage set on a different Montana ranch. I have a four-book series, Gideon's Ring, that will be released this year.

I write romantic suspense as Allie K. Adams and have the first two of my NASSD Counter-terrorist Agency series out now. At Any Cost is the first in the series, and Seek and Destroy is second. The third book in the series, It Takes Two, will be out later this year.

Please visit my website to stay up on my releases. http://www.alliekadams.com/
You can also join my Yahoo group to receive my newsletter. Please visit my website for details.

Wow, you sound busy! Tell us something about yourself that might surprise people.

I am a former offroad racer. I am also an excellent shot and can take out my target at 500 yards.

That's amazing! I can see why you write romantic suspense. Thanks so much for being here today, Eve. For all you readers curious about menages, here's a short excerpt. Warning: Adults only, graphic sex and language

Mia drew in a deep breath and held it. This couldn't be more awkward. Not only did she have the proverbial tall, dark, and definitely handsome agent following her around, she now had a good looking man with playful blond hair and gorgeous blue eyes vying for her attention. Wayde's features looked like they could have been chiseled from granite, they were so hard. Just like the rest of his body.

Glancing over at the other one—she didn't even know his name—she noted his features were more jovial, his eyes smiling even when he wasn't. Sitting between them, she felt the radiant heat encompass her. A deep pulsing energy mounted around her womb, pushing its force down the walls of her pussy and centering as a tingle on her lips. Why would simply sitting between them have her stimulated this much? Her clit was on fire, aching as it yearned for attention. Wayde's intense gaze burned into her, warming her further.

He hadn't left her side since entering the suite and she didn't really know what to think of that. Flattered? Annoyed? Grateful? All of the above?

"My name is James Pearce," the man said while reaching over and grabbing some grapes. Popping one in his mouth, he chewed and swallowed. "I'm thirty-five, a Scorpio, and I hate my feet."

"Your feet?" Mia hadn't heard of a man hating his feet before.

He nodded and pulled his foot out from under the table to show her. "They're too big. See?"

"They look normal to me," she lied. Dear God! They were huge. She hoped the old saying of a man's feet equating to the size of his penis didn't hold true here. He'd split her in two. Her heart spasmed at the thought. She jumped her gaze down to his groin and then quickly blinked her attention to the floor.

"I suppose you like long walks on the beach?" Wayde chimed in, his voice dripping with sarcasm.

James laughed and Mia watched as Wayde tensed. "No. I actually hate the beach. That sand gets into everything. I'm not a big fan of the water, either."

"Yet you live in Seattle," Wayde stated evenly. "The floating bridge capital of the world."

"I know, right? I should be firmly planted in the hills of Montana or something. But Seattle is one of my many homes, and I love it here."

"You love the rain and gray clouds three hundred days of the year?" Wayde leaned over and grabbed a handful of cheeses. After taking a bite, he sat back and chewed slowly, his careful gaze never leaving the other man.

Mia watched the two men as they made small talk, not ever saying anything of any importance. But, then again, if they did say anything worth her listening in, she didn't hear them. No, her mind clouded with images of her in bed, sandwiched between the two of them. The steely agent would touch her and bring her to climax as he rooted his cock deep inside her. The playful blond would flip her around and take the same path. Instead of being scared, or even nervous, her body responded to the thought by dampening her core, tingling her pussy lips as they softened and expanded to welcome them in.

"So you agree?" James asked. Mia blinked back the mental picture of Wayde's body over hers, both writhing and slamming into each other in the throes of passion.

"What?" The heated of her embarrassment seized her, leaving her momentarily speechless. She bounced her gaze to his groin again. The unmistakable bulge of his cock twitched. Her cunt clenched in response and she sucked in a breath as she quickly pulled her gaze back up to him. His eyes danced mirthfully. Heat engulfed her face at being caught.

"What were you thinking just now?" James smiled at her and her breath hitched. That twinkle in his eye convinced her he already knew.

"Uh—nothing. I agree." Nodding to seal her answer, she pasted a smile on her face, all the while wondering what in the hell she'd just agreed to.

"You do?" Wayde's tone had her heart dancing in her chest. He obviously didn't think she'd agree to whatever she'd agreed to. Shrugging to hide her confusion, her fake smile wilted when he stood and reached his hand down to her. "Then let's do it."

"Do it?" A flicker of apprehension coursed through her when she realized exactly what she'd agreed to. It was just a fantasy. No way did she ever think it would come true. "You mean do it do it?"

Wayde's smile turned her to putty in the chair and her arousal caught fire. "You are always so articulate." She accepted his outstretched hand and when he brushed his thumb over her wrist, a shiver washed through her.

Her fantasy was about to become a reality.

FRIDAY FUN

Current read: Only Pleasure by Lora Leigh

I'm getting ready to write a cougar story, so I couldn't resist sharing the following which was brought to my attention by fellow author Liza James. And no, my cougar will not look anything like this, LOL. I believe cougars can be hot and sexy, but this made me laugh like a crazy woman anyway.



And speaking of Liza, she's one of the talented authors joining me in the Lion/Lamb contest. Remember to visit the following authors sometime this month, find a lion or a lamb, and email your results to eroticcontest@hotmail.com. The contest runs from March 1st through March 31st. The winner, who will receive a $50.00 gift certificate, will be drawn the first week of April.

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

Happy Friday!

HUMP-DAY HUNK -- George Clooney

Current read: Enchanted Dreams by Mary Martinez

After a month of delicious cubs, I'm pleased to showcase some handsome hunks over forty. And who better to start with than George? He's hotter now, at forty-seven, then he was twenty years ago, in my opinion. What do you all think?

Helen's Goals for March AND A SCAVENGER HUNT

Current read: Enchanted Dreams by Mary Martinez

I did fairly well on my February goals, though I still have one novella I have yet to revise. I did revise one and am getting critiques on it. I also wrote my three synopses. Two of them came out great, but I'm still not quite satisfied with the third. I'll continue thinking on that one. I'm also pleased to report that, although I did not plan to do any new writing in February, I did manage to begin a short story which I'm excited about.

Here we are in March already! I need to get back to some serious writing. Unfortunately, I also need to do my taxes this month. I have some hefty goals, so I need all of you to pressure me to complete them ;).

1. Finish a short

2. Get a novella ready for submission

3. Start a new novella (goal of 15K for this month)

4. Do my taxes

5. Write an article for my chapter newsletter and a blog for Mama Writers

6. Judge six entries in a contest

7. Complete edits for Blood Wolf and Thai'd Up

Yes, I really need to buckle down this month! March is definitely roaring in like a lion for me.

And speaking of roaring in like a lion, I want to give you all the details of the Lion/Lamb contest again:

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

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

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

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

Enjoy your Tuesday, and be sure to come back tomorrow when "HUNKS OVER FORTY" returns for an encore during March!

MONDAY'S HERO -- Sager from Rachel and the Hired Gun

Current read: The Cougar Meets Her Master by KyAnn Waters

Welcome to Monday's Hero! Those of you who know me know I read a lot -- 3-4 books per week on average. I enjoy most of them, but it's rare that I'm moved to tears. Rachel and the Hired Gun, by debut author Elaine Levine, affected me that way. This was especially exciting because I know Elaine -- she's a friend and the current president of my local RWA chapter. The Kensington release, which won a Golden Heart in 2007, is an American western historical romance, a genre for which I have a soft spot. But it was her hero, Sager, who really made the book for me. And you all know how I love my heroes ;).

Update from Elaine: Leave a comment and one lucky poster will receive a copy of Rachel and the Hired Gun!

Welcome, Elaine! Tell us how you came up with the idea behind Rachel and the Hired Gun.

I wish I knew, Helen! I have no understanding where any of my ideas or plots or characters come from. Maybe the wind brings them. Maybe they come because I have a question that I need to have answered...what if? What if I were alone in the 1860s and needed to get to a ranch in the Dakota Territory? What if I were running from an uncle bent on using me in unspeakable ways? What if I had a father I'd never met? What if I encountered a man like Sager...?

Here's the blurb:
When Rachel Douglas left her aunt's house in Virginia for the wilds of the Dakota Territory, she knew the journey would be long and arduous. But she didn't realize that she had been summoned west to be used as a pawn in a ranch war with her father's neighbor--or that her fierce, sudden attraction to Sager, her father's hired gun, would put her heart and her life in jeopardy.

Seducing Rachel and feeding the bitter feud between the two ranches was Sager's plan of vengeance against those who slaughtered his Shoshone family. Instead, Rachel's guileless mix of courage and vulnerability touches the conscience he thought he'd buried long ago, and draws them both into a passion without rules, without limits--one that will change their destinies forever...

I already sang Sager's praises above, but let's tell my readers about him. What three adjectives best describe him?

Sager's a loner in search of a home, though of course he doesn't know it! He's about 6 feet tall, lean, olive skinned, with straight black hair and amber eyes. Three adjectives? I guess those are different depending on whether I'm describing him at the beginning of the book (steadfast, deadly, angry) or at the end (steadfast, dependable, contented)...

How are he and Rachel drawn to each other?

Initially, he's drawn to her because he sees her as a means of achieving the revenge he's been wanting. She sees in him someone who's far braver than she is, who's savvy about life in the West, who's unfailingly calm and protective.

What inspired you to create Sager?

I'm sure he's an amalgamation of lots of people, myself included.

How do you see Sager? Are there any celebrities who capture his look?

Singer Jake Owen. I'd written the whole book before I ever saw his photo, but he's the spitting image of Sager, in my mind.

What a gorgeous depiction of Sager! What projects are you working on right now?

Rachel and the Hired Gun is the first in my Men of Defiance series. The second book, Audrey and the Virginian, is scheduled for release February 2010. I'm working on the third in the series, Leah and the Avenger.

On a personal note, would you share something surprising about yourself?

I don't like afternoons. I dislike the color of the sunlight between 1 and 4 PM. I pretend those hours don't exist.

Thank you so much, Elaine. I know everyone will love Sager as much as I do. Read on for a taste of Rachel and the Hired Gun. In this excerpt, the wagon train has stopped for a maintenance break. The company members are celebrating, all except Sager and Rachel. Curious about Sager, Rachel seeks him out. He teaches her to waltz....

Sager brushed his lips against the slim column of Rachel’s neck, glad she hadn't pulled away yet. Her body was lithe and supple and moved in every way he led her. His skin tingled where she played with his hair. Did she know how difficult she was making this for him? His breathing was ragged, his nostrils flaring as he drew in the scent of her with each pull of air. He looked at her flushed face, her passion-darkened eyes, and swallowed an oath.

He lifted his hands to her face, touching her with the backs of his fingers, pretending for a moment that she was his, not Logan’s. Pretending that when he seduced her, it would be for love and not revenge. He ran his fingers over her cheekbones and down her cheeks, letting one hand ripple over her lips and chin. He drew the back of his fingers down her neck and up again to her chin, slowly, watching her eyes all the while. He ran his fingers lower, over her collarbone, down along the outsides of her breasts. He felt the breath she drew as her ribs expanded to press against his fingers. He led his fingers down her ribs, to her waist, and down to her hips before slowly running them back up to her neck. He wanted to kiss her, wanted to taste her lips, craved it as badly as a man dying of thirst gulps at the water that would kill him. He wanted to dig his hands into her hair and shove his tongue into her mouth. He knew that she would let him, too.

His lips touched hers, tentatively, softly. The best he could do for her would be to raise her passion. If she desired him as he did her, it wouldn’t be rape. Would it?

The kiss stayed chaste. He stopped dancing, stopped his racing thoughts. The wind blew her blonde hair toward him. He breathed in the smell of wood smoke, the soap she used, the tantalizing scent that was hers alone. She was like a dry prairie in fire season, ready to burst into flames and scorch everything around her. “I think we better call it a night, Rachel,” he rasped, pulling himself away from her. He’d better remember she was just a means to an end.