Aussie Romance Writers

Veinglory at Large

2007-06-24T17:35:00.000-07:00

I am a seriously addicted blogger, specifically a Blogger blogger. A tour of my posts for the day would include:

1) Here, yay!
2) My personal blog where I am posting about my latest garage sale purchase....
3) Over at POD People, a blog about self-published books I am riffing on Google search words.
4) At the gay romance blog Slash and Burn I am writing about character sketches.
5) And at the Erotic Romance blog I am reviewing the anthology Dark Thirst.

Now, time to get some writing done!

Romance Writers of Australia Conference

2007-06-19T03:43:00.000-07:00

Featuring Keynote Speaker, NY Times bestselling author, Jennifer Cruisie

Special guest speaker, multi-award winning, Anne Stuart.

WORKSHOPS

Anna Campbell and Annie West
Unleash the Alpha Hero!

Jennifer Crusie (Friday Morning Workshop)
Analysing your original story idea, the characters, core conflict and plot

Jennifer Crusie (Friday Afternoon Workshop)
Pacing, character and the unity of your book

Anna Jacobs
How to turn a good idea into a Great story

Bronwyn Jameson
Tension: Making your Story a Pageturner

Mary Hawkins
Writing for the Inspirational market

Alex May & Allison Tait
Making Freelance Writing pay

Terry McLaughlin
Point of View--a different perspective

Valarie Parv
Romance Writing's Brave New World--parts 1 & 2)

Paula Roe
Goal, Motivation and Conflict

Denise Rossetti and Christine Wells
Inspiration/Perspiration

Allison Rushby
How to Structure your Story

Alison Stuart
Cutting the Perfect Gem

Anne Stuart
Writing Dark Contemporary Fiction

Anne Stuart, Elizabeth Rolls, Anne Gracie, Anna Campbell & Alison Stuart
Historical Romance

Angela Verdenius
Sci-fi/Futuristic Romance

Deborah Wallace (Detective Superintendent)
My life of Crime

Published Author Workshops

Jenny Crusie
Theme and Motif masterclass

Marion Lennox
Round table discussion: staying published--the next learning curve

Visit www.romanceaustralia.com for more details!

Babe's Coming Soon!

2007-06-10T15:42:00.000-07:00

Squeee! I'm busy promoting "The Marian Kind" which releases this month at Freya's Bower as part of their Summer Lovin' Collection. I've included an excerpt over on my blog for those of you not familiar with my writing, and for those who are.

http://babes-always-write.blogspot.com/

As the cover suggests, "The Marian Kind" is about hackers, but mostly it's about a kick-butt girl and the modern-day Robin Hood she loves. With Summer heating up, Marian thinks it’s the perfect time to push her five-year relationship up a notch. But the body she gets close and personal with isn’t her lover’s. Or alive. Boyfriend Rob has some explaining to do, and a diamond ring full of promises to make if he wants to keep his girl.

Please buy the book! Keep me writing! Available from Freya's Bower mid/late June

Cheers,

Babe King

Catching up...

2007-06-07T21:41:00.000-07:00

Hi everyone!

It's been a while, I know. Real life can get really busy as you all know. I thought I should drop in and update you all.

I've been busy with the conference team for the 2007 RWAustralia Conference in August. Being on the organising committee is heaps of fun, but also heaps of work!

On a writing front, I have a few things going on as well. With my books, I have a current release...THE MASTER'S PRIZE...a contemporary erotic romance with BDSM elements. Yes folks...it's really HOT! It's doing quite nicely thanks and you can bet it at http://triskelionpublishing.com at the bookstore.

BOYS DOWN UNDER continues to sell...and sometime this month or possible next month I will have a new release...BEHIND THE MUSES - Terpsichore....my first foray into fantasy! It's the third anthology in the BTM series. I'll let you know when it comes out.

I have redone my website to reflect the erotic author image..LOL...check it out and tell me what you think... http://www.maggienash.com

Okay...that's it for me. I do promise to come back sooner next time!

Have a great week everyone!

Maggie

Woo Hoo!!

2007-03-13T23:20:00.000-07:00

GROUNDED
by Rose Middleton

Of all the clubs in town, she had to dirty dance her way into his…

Other men would do anything to be in Rocket Jones’ shoes. Heir to a media empire, CEO of the hottest nightclub, and now, a raven-haired goddess offering him no-strings-attached sex. He’s got it made, right? Wrong. Once is never enough. Before he knows it, he’s willing to fight through her dark past, family expectations and her career to make her his.

It was only supposed to be one night…

Fighter pilot Robyn Banks is on a mission to satisfy a seriously deprived sexual drive. With ten days to play, she beckons the sexy hunk down from the shadows and gives in to carnal desires. She’s under no illusion about her destiny, and it’s not with the suave businessman who comes from a world of opportunity. But as the days count down until she must return, Robyn is forced to relive the nightmare that saw her run from her family and for the first time, confront her demons and decide on a future. Can she find a way to combine her love of flying with the man who’s stolen her heart?

To read an excerpt, visit Ellora's Cave!

Something old, something new

2007-02-18T23:00:00.000-08:00

So Blogger just made me switch to Google. I want to know why. I want to know why I was effectively forced to change from a system that worked to something I didn't want in the first place. I want to know why I didn't get a choice. (So I apologise to all the other authors on this blog but it was going to happen sooner or later, I suppose :( )

But enough of that rant. I have something new for you to see. Grounded comes out in just under a month from Ellora's Cave. It's even up on the coming soon page! Now, I could post the cover and a blurb and hope that catches your attention. Instead, I'm going to post a book trailer. It only runs for a minute, so when I ask have you got a minute, I mean that quite literally *g*.

Anyway, I hope you enjoy. (And welcome Jess!)

Introducing myself

2007-02-05T14:56:00.000-08:00

G'day
The kids are finally packed off to school, and I have a moment to come out of lurkdom, and say hi. I'm new to the Aussie Romance Writer's Blog, (thanx Rose for inviting me to join,) but not so new to the world of erotic romance writing. If you haven't met me yet, feel free to hop on over to my website and get to know me a little better.

I have two books published with TriskelionPublishing. The first is a sexy, contemporary novel called Photo Opportunity. The second is a novella entitled Visiting Paradise, and is part of the Boys Down Under Anthology, written by co-Aussie authors, Maggie Nash, Karen Mandeville, Sarah Dickson and Angela Verdenius. (Oh, BTW - if any one told you these four ladies are "good girls" - they're not! Fun? Oh yes. Creative? You betcha. Good? Nooooo! I guess that's why I love them. LOL.) I also have a third book coming out in September with Samhain Publishing called Ask Adam.

So, you'd think that with school holidays over, I'd finally have some time to write, huh? Nope. No such luck. Truth is I have a huge overseas trip coming up soon (End of March). And I have to shop. With 11 nieces and nephews, 4 siblings and their spouses, and two parent-in-law there, I have to stock up on pressies. God knows where I'll find space in my suitcase for all of that, but I have no choice.

And then, to add to the shopping trauma, I have to buy a cocktail dress for an "elegant" reception we're attending in Toronto. HELLO? I live in Sydney. The most elegent I get is remembering to put shoes on when I leave the house. Please, I need a little outside help. Does anybody have any suggestions as to what may be considered elegant attire in Toronto in springtime? I would SO appreciate any advice you have to give me. (And don't be shy to mention hem lines and appropriate dress colours. I just don't have a clue.)

Well, that's all from me for now. Looking forward to your suggestions.

Jess
_____________
Jessica Dee
Dee-liciously Sexy Romance
Photo Opportunity: Now available from Triskelion Publishing
Visiting Paradise/Boys Down Under Anthology: Now available from Triskelion
Ask Adam: Coming September from Samhain Publishing
http://www.jessdee.com
http://www.myspace.com/writerjessdee

Hi everyone, long time no type.

2007-02-05T06:07:00.000-08:00

Happy to pop in and tell you all about my latest releases. But first, congratulations to my fellow authors who have been so successful.

My very latest comes from Midnight Showcase in an Egyptian themed digest called, aptly, Egyptian Realms. This has my story Never Say Die and even I must admit this work is a little different. I think it will be the perfect escape from the pressures of real life. Plus you get three other very talented writers, so you can't lose.

Also out early this year and in December last year A Whole New World from Phaze publications. My tough Aussie blokes visit Spellfire Texas at Midnight Showcase in Spellfire Seasons 2 digest. Then again the dynamic duo of Scott and Barry are back in A Spellfire Evening.

Apart from Scott having to deal with the fact he is descendant from a long line faeries, he learns a whole lot more about himself in the process. With his yobo mate barry and new-found faery sex-bomb, Scott Robson makes a lasting impression in the magical town of Spellfire Texas...learn more about Spellfire

I hope everyone stuck to their new years resolution!

Anna Fallon

Dreams & Desires: a collection of romance and erotic tales

2007-01-25T13:27:00.000-08:00

My story 'Blood and Feathers' appears in a new anthology Dreams and Desires which will be released on February first. The anthology is already available for pre-order at Barnes and Noble and Borders.

To mark the release there will be a chat day at Gemma Halliday's chat room on Thursday, February 1 from 8-10 pm EST/5-7 pm PST for a fun-filled gab session and the chance to win one of many free copies of our various recent and upcoming releases!

The following authors will be there: Jenna Bayley-Burke, Faith Bicknell-Brown, Amanda Brice, Sela Carsen, Rachelle Chase, Gemma Halliday, Candace Havens, Zinnia Hope, Jackie Kessler, Susan Lyons, Richelle Mead, Debbie Mumford, Rhonda Stapleton, Bebe Thomas, Emily Veinglory, Sasha White, Lois Winston, Shaunna Wolf & Kit Wylde

All net proceeds from sales of DREAMS & DESIRES will donated to a battered women's shelter, so not only are you getting some great reads, but you're helping women and children who desperately need a brighter future.

p.s. my story is M/M but the other 18 are M/F, ranging from very sweet to extra spicy :)

Link to Us

2007-01-22T22:00:00.000-08:00

We'd love to have you on board!

Use this URL: www.aussieromancewriters.blogspot.com

2007-01-19T01:59:00.000-08:00

Watch out - Here come the AUSSIES again!

Come join us celebrate the release of

BOYS DOWN UNDER

For all those who come to the chat you have a chance to win some fabulous prizes!

First Prize:

A ONE month Subscription to the Triskelion Book Club. Click HERE for details.

Second Prize:

A Download of our new release

BOYS DOWN UNDER

When? Saturday January 20th from 6pm – 10 pm US Eastern Time.

Where? Triskelion Fever and Triskelion Books Yahoo Groups

Karen Mandeville, Maggie Nash, Sarah Dickson, Angela Verdenius and Jessica Dee

Welcome to 2007

2007-01-18T23:29:00.000-08:00

Hey everyone! I can't believe last year flew by so quickly but here we are in 2007, with January 2/3 of the way through already. Yikes.

As you can see, we've made a few changes to the blog. New skin, new pics, new year! You'll notice that there are new covers on show from our authors and it appears that we might be expanding and adding new authors.

If you happen to be an Aussie romance author, living Down Under or abroad, and would like to join our blog, please drop me a line at rose @ lrmiddleton dot com (remove the spaces) . The only catch is that you write romance ;) It doesn't matter who you publish with or the heat rating of your work. Variety is the spice of life, so the more we have here, the better!

Grave Heart (m/m)

2006-11-22T15:21:00.000-08:00

The Collector 2" Grave Heart a new volume in the multi-author Collector Series.

Kieran specializes in business dealings of a delicate nature. The sort that require an intimate knowledge of target and goal. And he’s very, very good at his job....

Part of the new and exciting multi-author 'Collector Series', Grave Heart is a short novella with a hero he need to deal with his dark part in order open his heart to love. Dark gay romance with a magical twist, from Emily? Say it ain't so! LOL. I hope y'all enjoy it.

Are You an Erotic Romance Ebook writer?

2006-11-20T11:22:00.000-08:00

...Do you wonder what the sales figures are for different erotic romance epublishers?

Then you might be willing to participate in my new project where writers anonymously tell me about their sales...

http://www.veinglory.com/2006/11/sales-figures.html

Howdy Strangers...

2006-09-02T03:13:00.000-07:00

Hey everyone...it's been a while. Thought I'd come by and just chat for a bit. I've been burning the candle at both ends lately so I haven't had a chance to smell the coffee.

I have some minor news....I have signed a couple of contracts for some stories...not too shabby!

The first is the Behind the Muses ~ Exquisite Anthology. I have a story in it about Terpsichore, the muse of dance. It's a bit of fun...Hera is so jealous of the muses mother for having an affair with Zeus, so she flings them through time and space to rid them from Olympus. Poor Corey, aka Terpsichore, ends up in modern day Sydney....watch for it next April from Triskelion!

The second is Boys Down Under...a collaboration of 5 Aussie authors over at Triskelion. It's out in ebook in April, and Print in June 2007. SO watch this space for more details...

Now I'm off to do some more writing...I have a ST in the works and an erotic anthology on the planning board that has been requested by a NY agent...so off I go!

Okay..have a great week people!

'The Highwayman' by Emily Veinglory

2006-09-01T12:38:00.000-07:00

The Highwayman (e-novella, 2006)

Genre: Gay erotic romance
Length: e-novella
Publisher: Cobblestone Press

Reynard is the impoverished son of a cavalier, driven to highway robbery to support his sister, Emilia. But a puritan he robs proves to be his new neighbor--and Emilia returns to the house with her intended fiancé, who demands her promised dowry or the deeds to the family lands.

Finally a new sheriff turns up in town to put an end to the latest spate of robberies. Just when Reynard needs quick money all he can steal is the heart of an insolent roundhead who has a few secrets of his own!

OFFSITE LINKS: point of sale

"The Heist is one electrifying page-turner"

2006-08-27T00:02:00.000-07:00

Hi everyone!!! Hope you are all going well. I was roped into doing my first 'fun-walk' today ... 10.5km later and I was crossing that finishing line! Good LORDY! I knew I wasn't that fit but blimey ... I came home, stretched, looked at the newly formed blister under my toe, went out to lunch and had a snooze. When I woke up I had this fantastic review from Fallen Angel Reviews.
So whatever you are doing - hope you are well ... and to top it off - start my new job tomorrow!! Just hope there's not much walking involved ... hahahaha!!

"The Heist is one electrifying page-turner,"
Reviewer Linda L of Fallen Angel Reviews.

"Not only do they share intense dialogue and a terrific chemistry that allows the reader to practically feel their every emotion, but also the whole storyline surrounding them is extraordinaire. Ms. MacCarrick spins a well-crafted plot, refreshing secondary characters, and some exceptional action-packed twists and turns. With a hint of danger, some lingering suspense and two dynamite main characters, this incredible story blows this reader away with such creativity that screams for more from Kara and Lachlan. This one is a winner!"

Five angels!

For the full review ... Click HERE

The Heist ... 'the best twists and turns an author can offer' ... available now ... Triskelion Publishing ...
BUY NOW

Touching base!!

2006-08-19T16:04:00.000-07:00

Hi everyone!
Gosh – feels like forever since I’ve had a chance to get in and post … have been living under my rock quite nicely. Mostly a self-induced lock down to try and get through the goals I have set myself. I’m working hard on a series, series seem to be in my blood at the moment, I have three others swimming around in my head! They’ve all taken a number and will have to wait till I call them out before I can get working on them.
Personally, I have finished working in the job that I held for nearly two years and moved to a better position, like $20k better position so I start that next week … a little nervous but really looking forward to it!
Just last week I went to the Aussie RWA conference, and after I got over the horror that is flying, I had a REALLY good time! Fellow Muse, Maggie Nash and I shared an apartment and had a hell of a time. I met some really wonderful authors and publishers. A top agent ran through my work and gave me really constructive criticism about my idea for another series. Made me look at things in a different perspective and I might even send it out to the big dogs when it’s written!
Back to writing news … my novel The Heist under the pen name of Kaelyn MacCarrick is rating very highly with readers. I’m thrilled with this because The Heist is the first book in that series and will be available in print in 2008. So hence, the self-induced shadow hugging to write more in that series.
It’s a gloriously sunny day here in Newcastle, Australia so I hope wherever you are in the world, it’s sunny there too!!

Hope to hear from you all soon!!

Karen Mandeville – http://www.karenmandeville.com – new website coming soon!
Kaelyn MacCarrick - http://www.myspace.com/kaelynmaccarrick

Check out my other groups ...
Behind the Muses
Great Escape Artists

'Journey's End' from Emily Veinglory

2006-08-13T19:12:00.000-07:00

Journey's End (e-novella 2006)
Genre: gay erotica/romance
Length/Format: novella, e-book
Publisher: Torquere

Castel is an elf stranded in human lands, slowly dying from lack of magical energy. Mendry is a human assassin descended from a line of vampire 'Dragon Knights' who seek to bring an evil dragon back to life.

When Mendry's father steals a child he believes to be his grand-daughter, the seventh generation needed to carry out the resurrection ritual, Mendry and Castel come together to save an innocent life, facing evil mages and more. Together with the child's uncle and mother, they make an unlikely band of heroes, and find a whole new meaning to the word family. Set in the same world as Emily Veinglory's first Torquere novel, Broken Sword!

Coming soon from Ellora's Cave...

2006-07-28T22:06:00.000-07:00

Yep, you got it, I sold to Ellora's Cave! They made an offer on Grounded (working title) early last week, and it's been killing me to sit on the news for a few days. I'm still in shock over it though, it was my first sub to EC.

This is one of my favourite manuscripts. I love the story of Robyn and Rocket. Not only is it daring, with lots of great sex (IMO, LOL) it has a much deeper core. Both characters are as real to me as my sisters and friends. It's a contemporary romance and oh my, I can't wait to see what EC comes up with for the cover. OMGosh, I'm so excited!

Here's an unedited blurb for it:

Flight Sergeant Robyn Banks - callsign Thief - has been grounded. With ten days leave until the hearing that will determine whether she flies again, she returns home to take care of certain...neglected...needs. After living in a testosterone-laden environment, she's earned the nickname Ice Queen, and without the prying eyes of her superior officers, is out to shed the image once and for all.

Of all the clubs in town, she had to dirty dance her way into his...

...and Rocket Jones loves every minute of his raunchy, erotic dance with the raven-haired woman. By the stroke of midnight, Rocket finds himself swept away by the mysterious woman, identifying herself only as Thief. After 3 wild nights, Rocket doesn't want it to end. But when she disappears, Rocket is determined to track her down.

The Heist ... 'best twists and turns'

2006-07-24T06:45:00.000-07:00

Hello all!!! I have been lurking in the shadows but have kicking and screaming out from searching for a new 'bill paying' job to brag about my latest release!!
The Heist is a romantic suspense that will have the reader wondering what is going to happen next and I'm sure they will never see the answer coming!

Here are just a few comments from reviewers:

"Ms. MacCarrick begins to take the reader into some of the best twists and turns an author can offer."
http://www.loveromances.com/heist_gina.html

"This is a story full of non-stop action; both of the romantic and suspense kind."
Maura
Reviewer for Coffee Time Romance / Reviewer for Karen Find Out About New Books

"The Heist pulls you in with the first word and will not let go until the very end. Leave some time to read this as you will not want to put it down. Kaelyn MacCarrick does a superb job with The Heist."
Elise Lyn - http://ecataromance.com/reviews?type=&id=1114

The Heist ... Available NOW

There is a preview of the first chapter linked to the one above. Click on that and have a read!!

Hope everyone is well!

Karen M / Kaelyn MacCarrick
New website coming SOON!!

Aussie Round Robin

2006-07-16T18:47:00.000-07:00

She didn't want to see him. It was simple as that, and she didn't care if her sister thought it best to get closure. Closure? She huffed. For what? After all he was the one who...

If you are reading this you've been tagged to carry this on.

2006-07-13T13:42:00.000-07:00

Quick blurb: They fell in love when it was forbidden, but fate is about to intercede. Now Ransom is back to win his ladylove, Winifred over. Will sweet promises rekindle the flames of love once so pure, or bring misery in its wake?

Want to win a sapphire heart pendant? Then all you have to do is answer the following question and send it to jodicib [at] gmail.com.

Question: Who are a part of the 'Devil's Trio', and what attributes are they famous for?

HINT: You can find the answer on http://www.newconceptspublishing.com/adevilsproposal.htm

Soccer widow

2006-06-23T22:59:00.000-07:00

Okay, so I'm not married, but in essence, I feel like a soccer widow. My parents, my sisters, all my friends - they've gone soccer mad.

I seem to be immune to the soccer fever going around *sigh*

When I was growing up, I was my dad's soccer buddy. I was like the water girl or something, but I loyally followed my dad to every darn soccer game he played. As the third daughter, the surprise child, I was kind of like the token son. So my dad and I bonded over soccer. Not sure why I hate it so much now, though. I mean, 90 minutes of game time and you're luck if anyone scores at all! But as a PE teacher, I do appreciate the skills involved. I am totally a football clutz. Couldn't kick or juggle the ball to save myself, so I understand the talent these guys have. But you know, my students complain about the rules of netball, "why do I have be 3 feet away" they whine. Well, um, what the heck is offside and who in their right mind invented it? *g*

Either way, congrats to the Socceroo for making the final 16 - first time in the history of the world (or so exclaimed the radio!) - let's just hope we can beat Italy. For anyone who doesn't know, Melbourne has a HUGE Italian population. The famous, Lygon Street, is home to a lot of them, and they're going to erect big screens and have a night of celebration...

AUSSIE AUSSIE AUSSIE

OI OI OI

Syno-cism

2006-06-18T19:47:00.000-07:00

Ever tried to craft a synopsis? Ever sat down after penning a 70K+ story to squish it all into 2 pages?

No? Well, take my advice: avoid at all costs!

I'm a terrible syno writer. I stink. And I've learned that most people fall into either the I Love Syno's or the I Hate Syno's camps. Yep, you guessed, I hate 'em. With a passion.

Still, I respect anyone who's picked up the craft and can write them. Over at Romance Divas, they're having a short syno contest. I have two entries. One is being torn apart (go figure) and the other is doing okay, but I want to improve my syno writing ability. So, while I don't mind my attempt being torn apart, I want feedback. Yes, I know, I'm greedy. I want to know where I go wrong, what I can do better, and how to communicate an entire book in 2 pages. And of course, I want to be able to do it well.

Go Aussies!

2006-06-12T14:55:00.000-07:00

My good news is that I've sold a short story to Forbidden Publications . Don't know when it's coming out but it's called Ghostly Desires and it's a lesbian romance. I write heterosexual, bi and lesbian romance but not male gay romance. Which is a pity because it's very hot at the moment. But you need to write what you love, and m/m erotica, on the whole, doesn't do it for me.

All that aside, the big news of the day is that Australia won 3-1 against Japan in the Soccer World Cup! Yay! Three goals in the last 6 minutes. What a nail biter! Lots of dancing in the streets here.

Titles that speak

2006-06-09T18:42:00.000-07:00

The ever important title. Your marketing tool that will get people to buy besides the cover and the blurd - the frist thing a reader will see. Is it hard for you to come up with a title? Do titles draw you first or is it something else?

I myself, haven't had too much trouble with titles. I love the creativity of developing one, but it's finding one that is unique that is hard. So here is what I think of when choosing a title:

Steer away from anything with the world 'Love' in it. Love is such a common word used in romance for me it's now 'blech'.

Keep it short and to the point. 3 words max

If you had to describe the premise in your book in 1 or 2 words what would it be. Be creative. Leave out things like: Hot, futuristc, historical (anything that rounds out the genre you're writing in) What is the story like?

Now, do the same with the heroine and hero. In 1 or 2 words describe them.

Ask the characters. Yep I know it sounds wierd but you'll be amazed what they say.

Now put all this together and see what you have.

Now that you've come up with a few, google it.

That's pretty much my method

Confessions

2006-06-03T03:40:00.000-07:00

Tell me about your dream man, the kind of hero you are dying to see in a romance novel?

Is he the town's local bad boy? Is he the computer geek hiding behind his glasses and harddrive? Or is he Mr. Suit & Tie?

Does he like to get down and dirty? Wear his 5 o'clock shadow with pride? Hose off after a hard day's work right in front of you?

Is he as gorgeous in clothes as he is out of them? And how does he treat you? With reverence? Like a queen? Does he love to pamper you, or does he make you work for his affection, where the rewards are definitely worth the effort?

Forget about real life, tell me your fantasy. I know what kind of hero I like, but I want to know the kind of hero you want.

Or do you have different heroes for different days? One for every day of the week? Or is that just plain greedy? :)

C'mon, 'fess up and tell me your secrets.

---------------------------------------------------

By the way, I have some news. Fallen Angel Reviews gave One Foot Forward 5 Angels! My first fiver. You can read it here. I have to be honest. It made me cry a little, but rest assured, they were tears of joy! Also, I've started a newsletter. It's here. And I posted on the Liquid Silver Books SEx Blog. It was the Morning After post because Can You Keep A Secret? was released on Monday 29 June!

Whew!

DEEP COVER to be released in June!

2006-05-26T19:44:00.000-07:00

Hi everyone. I have a new release coming in June...hopefully next week, although I don't know for sure. This is the UP CLOSE AND PERSONAL anthology from Triskelion Publishing and my contribution is DEEP COVER.

I had so much fun writing this book! I hope everyone else has as much fun reading it. I already have one fabulous review for my story.
Enchanted Ramblings gave it 6 Magical Wands. Whoo Hoo!

Here's the blurb...

Helena Peters has a secret. She’s been in love with her partner, Dimitri, and his tall, dark and sexy body ever since she joined the police force five years ago. It doesn’t help that he constantly parades a string of girlfriends in front of her face and never looks on her as anything other than his work partner. What would she do if he discovered her private longing?

His classic Greek looks were responsible for Dimitri Michaels arrogant success with women, so pretending to be lovers with his partner should have been a piece of cake. It might have been, except good ole ‘Hels’, his partner and buddy, was not the same person he remembered. Why was the only girl in his dreams the one who has been right under his nose all the time? More to the point, could he keep her safe long enough to convince her he cared for real?

'The Sculptor's Muse' -- new from Emily Veinglory

2006-05-24T18:39:00.000-07:00

A story that slipped out over eight days as if a muse was truly whispering it in my ear:

The Sculptor's Muse

Karl, a young painter, is struck blind almost over night by a merciless virus. Clarius, a jaded muse, is sent to watch over him.

Muses are meant to remain an invisible, divine presence--but from the very beginning Clarius knows that this case will be different. Karl does not need abstract inspiration; he needs to be loved, and touched.

But a vindictive female muse and Karl’s insane ex-boyfriend are hunting Clarius down--and the penalty for any muse revealing themselves to a mortal man is death! Clarius must leave the man he loves and the loss may tear them both apart.

Sounds delicious

2006-05-23T02:07:00.000-07:00

Gary Hawthorn is single, gets around and has never fallen in love. When he visits an exclusive island resort with the view of buying it, he doesn't expect to be so attracted to Rose, the resident artist.

Rose Cartwright is not looking for any relationship. Not even recreational sex. Well, maybe she might make an exception with Gary. After all it's only a few days and he'll be gone.

Can they possibly even consider a future, especially when Gary plans to take everything Rose holds dear, away from her?

And um, how hot is that cover? Go Sarah. Mango Heat will be available from Triskelion Publishing in July.

Okay, so I'm stealing the show

2006-05-12T21:42:00.000-07:00

Despite the day job being a pain in the rear end this week, I have had some good writing news.

JERR gave One Foot Forward 4 stars! You can read part of the review here.

Romance Divas gave Tantaliser 4 1/2 kisses! You can read part of the review here.

The Devil's Veil cover is out. You can read the blurb and catch an excerpt here.

Plotting or pansting?

2006-05-08T01:05:00.000-07:00

Over at Romance Divas there's a thread about outlining which always becomes a discussion of the different methods of writing. I'm an aspiring plotter. I'd love to have everything worked out and organised before I start writing, but I never do. I have to leap into writing so I can get a grip on my characters and where I'm going. The downside of that is that I often come to a dead halt, not knowing what to do next.

So I've become a buyer of craft books on plotting, hoping I'll come across the magic method of plotting that will make perfect sense and solve all my problems. I don't have to tell you I haven't found the perfect one yet. Partly because they're such torture to read. Dry.

I'm plodding along with some short stories and my main work in progress at the moment. Doing a bit of planning but more flying into the mists.

What do you do?

Gay Zombie Penguin blog tour

2006-04-30T16:38:00.000-07:00

In my less serious moments I take time off from writing for my occassional comic 'Gay Zombie Penguins'. So here is a quick visit from the boys:

* next stop will be the blog of Erotic James

Updates

2006-04-29T23:43:00.000-07:00

WOW, it's been a while! But I know that we've all been quite busy. This last week, I've been working with the fabulous Jax to finalise the cover for my LSB release, Can You Keep A Secret? And here it is:

CAN YOU KEEP A SECRET?

Can you keep a secret?
I don’t suppose you can
I’m your secret Santa
Resist my wicked plan!

It’s winter in Melbourne, Australia and investigative journalist Jesse Fox doesn’t want to participate in the Christmas in July gimmick his boss has instigated. He’s about to turn in his I really don’t want to play this game note to the coordinator when he receives a mysterious package and is the most enticing dare he can imagine. Can he uncover the identity of his secret Santa before her titillating gifts drive him insane?

As an administrative assistant in the biggest television network in town, Penny Lane should have better things to do than run the secret Santa gift exchange and coordinate a weekend retreat to the snow. Yet the game allows her to indulge in her secret fantasy with hot shot Jesse, and as her inner vixen emerges, Penny needs to keep him from realising plain Jane is behind the salacious gifts.

Penny must decide if the friendship they share is more important than the possibility of spending the weekend retreat in Jesse’s bed. Exactly what will Jesse do once he uncovers the woman behind the red lace garter and the fur-lined handcuffs?

In addition, I had an interview with Fallen Angel Reviews. It was posted today. You can see it here: FAR Interview What am I doing now? Well, I'm juggling. Doing the great balancing act of 2006: writing, teaching, being the best darn friend I can right now. My best friend is having a baby and is due in June, so I'm knitting her bub a pressie. But shhh, don't tell her (and Karen, if you're reading this, just close your eyes hon!) She lives 300km away so we don't see each other all that often. I've just started working on a short story. All I will tell you is that it involves a witch, office rivals and a disgruntle client. *g* Oh, and I just sold another book! This is a book of shorts, so there's 5 times as much fun. It's paranormal and has everything from a white witch to a werewolf to a former lightbringer turned vampire to a time wizard. (I never do things by halves, LOL)

Maggie Nash has been running a workshop on balancing the romance and the suspense on the League of Amazing Writers yahoo group. You can check out more details at Maggie's website, www.maggienash.com and don't forget to check out her new release, Deep Cover which is in Triskelion's Up Close and Personal anthology (cover is over on the side, yummm). Hopefully she'll drop in sometime soon.

Jodici Belle has been web designing and writing and submitting. Hopefully she'll pop in and give you an update as well.

I haven't heard from Karen lately, so I'm assuming she's up to her eyeballs in writing, or maybe real life. Yes, sadly it gets in the way sometimes.

Anyhoo, keep an eye out for us, quite literally we're all over the place.

Review for His Unexpected Bride

2006-04-23T00:18:00.000-07:00

Romance Junkies have given a 4.5 ribbons for HIS UNEXPECTED BRIDE! I'm blown away and very pleased. Thanks Chrissy!

Title: His Unexpected Bride
Category: Historical
Reviewer: Chrissy Dionne
Author: Jodici Belle
Publisher: New Concepts Publishing
Release Date: April 1, 2006
ISBN Number: 1586088688
Author Homepage: http://www.jodicibelle.com/
Format: EBOOK
Rating: 4.5

In an attempt to thwart his mother’s efforts at marrying him off, Damien,
Marquis of Rutledge does the only sensible thing he can think to do. He
makes up the most horrid name he can think of and informs his mother that
he’s betrothed. The only problem with this plan is there is a young woman
who indeed does carry the name “Miss Hinglebottom.”

Bethany Hinglebottom had been humiliated by the ton when she’d first been
introduced into society. Her tendency to attract all sorts of mischief
made her the belle of the ball for all the wrong reasons. She’d promptly
become the joke of London and was relieved to return to Northampton.

Marcus’s attempt at escaping the marriage mart and his mother’s meddling
are met with failure as the asinine name he thought he’d made up actually
belongs to a woman, and not just any woman but apparently an accident
prone woman. Hoping that the ton will quiet down and forget his supposed
upcoming nuptial isn’t working. Matters only become worse when his mother
decides it is time to collect Marcus’s bride-to-be. Bethany is under the
assumption that somehow she’d met Damien but she’s embarrassed that she
can’t remember him. Chalk it up to yet another disaster in her life.
She’s not thrilled with the whole idea of returning to London either.
Both Marcus and her own mother insist that she must go, so she’s bundled
up and carted off to the scene of her very public humiliation. More than
anything Bethany wants for Damien’s interest in her to be a reality. How
is she going to handle learning that he’s made her up? As if being
played for a fool isn’t bad enough, someone keeps writing the most
unflattering articles for each and every one of her mishaps.

Jodici Belle’s HIS UNEXPECTED BRIDE will touch a cord in every reader’s
heart. From Damien’s bumbling attempts at escaping marriage, to Bethany’s
consistent mishaps this is a book you’ll smile through while cheering for
this mismatched couple to get their act together and admit they are
perfect for each other. I’m dying to know what happens between Damien’s
sister, Violet, and his friend, Brighten. We get a hint of a romance
brewing there but not enough to positively figure out if they end up
together or not. This story is wonderfully fast paced, with animated
characters that make you feel like you’ve taken a step back in time and
are watching this couple’s faltering attempts at falling in love without
it ending up in the society column.

SNIPPET–
Damien, Marquis of Rutledge, has a brilliant plan to ensure his mother
drops parading debutantes before him in hopes of marrying him off. He’ll
simply invent a woman and to make his supposed bride-to-be more
believable. He’s even made up a surname for this fictional woman - Miss
Hinglebottom. Maybe he should have made sure there really wasn’t a woman
with such a horrid name.

TGIF

2006-04-21T03:41:00.000-07:00

Ever had one of those weeks? It might only have been a four day week, but sheesh, life can cram a lot of stuff into those four days! For me, it's mostly been work - the day job, that is. I've been playing catch-up. Before Easter, I worked on Monday, then went to camp for 3 days. Then it was Easter, followed by a student free day (in which us teachers worked) and now I feel like I've been chasing my tail trying to figure out where I should be up to. Gah! But I can say this...yesterday and today were very good days in the classroom. Yay.

Writing-wise, it can be summed up in this short sentence: one submission sent, one submission to be sent, one new WIP begun. Woohoo! No edits. (*big big smile*)

I haven't had time to catch up with the rest of the gang, so hopefully they'll drop by with some news and updates. For me, I just did an interview with Fallen Angel Reviews, so I'll let y'all know when that is. And this week I have a guest blogger over at www.lrmiddleton.com/blog/ ~ NCP author, Annalee Blyss. Be sure to stop by and check out her post on Real Life Heroes.

And a big happy birthday goes to Keziah!

Have a good weekend all!

Laura

What do you love about romance novels?

2006-04-10T05:56:00.000-07:00

It's a question that can make you grit your teeth. Can have you hurling a brand new novel against the wall in disgust. Incorporating plots/characters you perceive as "the bomb" in your writing does not mean your manuscript will sell. What one person likes is distasteful to another.

I have expressed my dislike for domineering (not dominant) heroes and tstl heroines on Romance Divas. Or, plot twists undertaken by characters when they have no motivation or reason. Yes, I get worked up about the issue. Only because my love of romance demands it.

I don't understand why all the contemporary series category "read in a day" books now have heroines that need a man. This is not depicting modern women honestly. Women are taught to stand on their own two feet and yet, on paper they are all stuck in some horrible man's clutches and helpless. Where do you draw the line in the sand and say, "Enough is enough. I want to read about smart women and heroes that are really heroes."

Of course, I've heard opposing views and that's fine. But, now days it's getting very hard sorting the gold from the dross of romance novels. I want plots that depict the wonderful diversity of characters this world contains. I want difference. I want the heroes from all walks of life with depth. I want a heroine that uses her brains and makes me feel proud to be a woman.

If the characters had a chance to change then so would plots. Natural progression.

I received an email from a writer who moderates he Harlequin Mills and Boon discussion forum and she stated that even if she hated the trend she could not comment about it on a public forum. Is it wrong to speak up? Is it considered bad form to fight for something you love?

Moving in ...

2006-04-09T15:15:00.000-07:00

My first erotica novella, Lust Thy Neighbor is set for release this weekend from Triskelion Publishing. Some readers would have been teased with the excerpt on my website, but the wait is almost over.
Lust Thy Neighbor is a contemporary erotic romance and has been a great talking point.
Talia Ricci of Joyfully Reviewed said:

Lori has seen neighbors come and go but she has never seen a neighbor such as the one moving in at the moment. When her new neighbor comes over to introduce himself, Lori is instantly attracted to him and sets out to spy at him from her window.
Parker can’t believe his good luck! He just introduced himself to his new neighbor and she seems interested. Not wanting to appear over eager, Parker goes next door and invites Lori out for a casual meal under the pretext of Lori showing him around.
Lori and Parker’s attraction for each other simmers slowly. Lori sees Parker in the arms of another woman, after finally gathering up enough courage to ask him on a date. She is confused and hurt, and leaves deciding to ignore Parker. Parker, however, has other plans.
Lust Thy Neighbor by Karen Mandeville was a quick romp into reader euphoria. Extremely erotic sex with a bit of comedy thrown in, Lust Thy Neighbor was enjoyable although both characters drove me nuts by being afraid of rejection or appearing stupid. I wanted to shake Lori as much as I wanted to tear Parker’s clothes off.
All in all, Lust Thy Neighbor was a fast, cute read that I enjoyed. I think other readers will like Lust Thy Neighbor as well. I look forward to reading more from Karen Mandeville in the future.

Keep an eye out for the removal truck ... a new neighbor is moving in this weekend...
http://www.triskelionpublishing.net

Book #2

2006-04-07T04:14:00.000-07:00

On April 1, my second book was released. One Foot Forward is the story of Molly and Mick, and the journey to feeling whole. Of all the books I've written, this one was the hardest and most challenging, and now, the most rewarding.

Here's the blurb:

How do you thank someone for saving your life? Molly Keating's never found the right words to thank Mick Knight for saving her from the car accident that almost killed her and left her severely injured. When she learns the hunky firefighter is up for auction at a charity fundraiser, she figures the very least she can do is bid to take him to dinner and explain her gratitude.

Mick is thrilled to seen Molly again, but he hates to see the self-doubt that is so evident in her beautiful hazel eyes. The charismatic Mick, with his commanding sex appeal and devilish charm sets out to put the spark back into the woman he’s been unable to forget.

When Mick followed his fire-fighting father into a career that too often leads to an early grave, he knew the risks. Mick long accepted that he may have no future and has avoided relationships out of fear—fear of commitment and fear of risk.

As the passion between them ignites and the feelings build Mick finds that he must make a choice and Molly finds herself wondering if the impossible just might be possible.

Do they live the rest of their life in fear or do they follow their hearts and take a chance…on love?

~*~

The most incredible thing is that it's been out a week, and I already have a great review on it! 4 1/2 stars from Ecataromance!

One Foot Forward is an inspiration to everyone, and teaches the lesson that a person’s completeness has nothing to do with the physical body! This moving story has genuine characters, and each page furthered the hopeful and indomitable tone of the story. One Foot Forward is everything I wished it would be, and so much more!

Read the rest at http://sensual.ecataromance.com/reviews?type=&id=50

And to top it all off, I've learned that both One Foot Forward and Tantaliser are going to be available in print!!

New Release

2006-04-01T01:48:00.000-08:00

Hi all, my debut book is out! If you like historicals then have a look at this one:

Here is the blurb:
‘Nothing in life can be achieved without a solid plan and a well-tied cravat’. It's a simple motto that served Rutledge well until the day his method is interrupted by an unforeseen catalyst: His not-so-fictitious betrothed.

Having no wish to marry, Marquis of Rutledge refuses to bow to his overbearing mother’s demands and to avoid being forced to the altar; he fabricates a betrothed with the most ridiculous last name he could come up with. Miss Hinglebottom was a perfectly absurd name. But the minute he utters her name he’s horrified to find he’d chained himself to an existing woman.

After experiencing the sinister mockery of the ton, Bethany Hinglebottom vows never to return to London. But when a handsome lord appears offering her a fairy tale romance, she braves the whirls of the social Season for the chance at love. Confused by his heated looks and lukewarm manner she is determined to make an impression, praying her accident-prone tendencies won’t make an appearance. But while the reality of their match lays hidden in the shadows, her love deepens for a man that seems to be the answer to her dreams.

Despite being faced with a faux betrothal where only he knows the truth, Rutledge cannot help but attempt to apply his wily plans in an effort to bypass his current predicament. Yet for some reason, since the arrival of Miss Hinglebottom nothing has gone his way and he finds himself becoming a pawn to his own game where he just might be falling in love with HIS UNEXPECTED BRIDE.

Check it out and read an excerpt at: http://www.newconceptspublishing.com/hisunexpectedbride.htm

Also, you might want to check out my blog for my competition where you can win a freshwater pearl necklace

Paranormal erotica - new releases

2006-03-24T13:50:00.000-08:00

Hi

My recent release are paranormal erotica, but are quite different stories.
I'm also pretty stoked with the covers.

Maeve (Book 2 of the Ladies of the night series) is a paranormal/historical erotica set in Victorian London. I chose this period after having lived in London for a while. Since I wanted to have a woman with independent means, and who liked sex, the idea of a high class vampire whore came to mind.
There are five women in the Ladies of the Night series. Maeve is book 2. She becomes involved with Hubert, a rake in many ways, but I like him.

Here’s the blurb
Hubert has never found a woman who can keep up with his sexual appetites. When he meets Maeve, he believes he’s met his match at last.
Maeve agrees to stay a week at his country residence where she promises to fulfill his wildest sexual fantasies. In reality, she needs to keep her eye on Hubert so he’ll not wander off and do his own investigations into his cousin’s disappearance.
When they reach the country residence, neither is prepared for the ghosts who will not give them peace, not until Maeve and Hubert stumble on a terrible and tragic family secret.

My other story is called Distant Souls, and is a paranormal erotica set in rural Australia.

Alex is a gifted man who can see auras, and Melinda is the epitome of sloth. The book is part of the Sins and Virtues series through Extasybooks, and the story is based on the sin of sloth.

Here’s the blurb
Alex believes in fate, but this time he's sure he's been conned. After his truck breaks down, he is forced to spend a weekend with Melinda who is the epitome of sloth.
He wants to leave as soon as he can and Melinda is as determined to see him go.
Fate, on the other hand has its own plans for bringing these two distant souls together.

If you want to read some excerpts, go to my web site at http://www.sarahdickson.com

Multi Genre writing

2006-03-20T15:02:00.000-08:00

Hi guys, sorry for the late post. Ok, this is my topic. I'm going to discuss multi-genre and the should we/shouldn't we.

When I first started subbing my historical I researched many agents. On thing that really struck me with a few agents was that they preferred authors to only write in one sub-genre. Their belief that an author delving in more than one genre would know less than an author that is focused on just one.

I would like to disagree with this.

As a writer we must research everything. The setting, the language, the professions. These things apply throughout history to the present and into the future/fantasy. Research is part of a writers life and we know that if we aren't right we will be pulled up on it.

Another point I'd like to make is, as a reader I like to read many genres and sub-genres, so to imply that a reader won't be able to handle an author writing in more than one genre is beyond me. I have a love for most if not all romantic sub-genres and I am most certain I am not the only one.

Now, Epubs are wonderful in the sense that they aren't going to constrict your inclination to write a historical one time and a futuristic the next or even make that sudden leap into romantica. Readers of ebooks will buy from an author they are familiar with and even if it's not a genre they read I'm sure they would give it a whack because they like that particular authors voice.

So a reader that devours ebooks is no different from a reader that only buys print. We have a love for escapism and the Happily ever after.

I know of a few authors who write more than one genre. That are in print. Eg: Julia London - Historical/Contemp to just name 1.

So, as you can see I'm one sided on this. I'll leave that to you to either disagree or agree. Do you think that as an author we should stick to only one sub-genre of romance?

Tantaliser is now available

2006-03-11T16:05:00.000-08:00

The lead up to my first book's release on March 1 was a hectic, frantic nightmare. But I loved every minute of it! Trying to juggle full time teaching (which includes corrections, preparation and phone calls to parents), my writing, an exercise regime, family and time out is a tricky, tricky business. I am so looking forward to the day when I can actually find some balance to this.

So while I fretted about the release date, a kind soul gave me some words of wisdom 'Hey, relax. It's just the release. Start worrying about that first review.'

Gee, thanks very much! LOL Of course, needless to say, I'm worrying. I have had some really nice feedback from readers, though, which always makes a writer feel like it's been worth it. And to be honest, I really cannot complain about the whole process. Working with Barb and Lori at Linden Bay Romance has been a wonderful experience. Though they're a new epub, I would highly recommend them to aspiring writers. In fact, they have a publishing contest going on right now. Send in your first chapter! The prize? A contract and a great start to your publishing.

Don't you just love this cover? I do. I actually squealed like a girl (yes, I am one sometimes) when I received it. Lemme tell you why...

Charlie is exactly the way I pictured her in my mind. I mean, exactly. I swear S.L. Carpenter, the cover artist, must have been reading my mind or something.

And Nik glows. How cool is that? He's not quite the image I had in mind, but hot damn, he'll do!

The cover practically sizzles with the tension these two share. Honestly, I couldn't rave more about it!

So what is Tantaliser about?

For Australian ace drummer Catherine “Charlie” Brown, it isn’t about breaking into a boy’s club. It’s about proving a point regarding lead singer and all-round bad boy, Nicholas St. Eve. When Nik storms out of Charlie’s audition claiming no woman will ever join his band, she’s convinced that she’s exposed him for the chauvinistic, self-obsessed pig that he is.

But there is more to Nik than meets the eye. The second he walks out the door he realizes his mistake. He can’t deny Charlie’s talent anymore than he can deny the intense physical attraction he has for her. When instead of admitting that he’s wrong, Nik impulsively confronts the stubborn and outspoken Aussie, sparks ignite! They exchange words, issue challenges, and share the kiss of a lifetime. Then, Charlie vows to beat Nik at his own game. The race is on!

Now it’s two years later and Charlie is winning the battle of the bands with her all girl group, Mystique. Nik could care less; he only really wants to win her. He’s never been able to forget their first encounter and if Charlie would just be honest with herself she’d admit that neither has she. She’s desperate to get Nicholas St. Eve out of her system and out of her life. And, if she can’t? Well, Charlie might very well give in to his persistently wicked attempts to tantalize her!

Excerpt

“Now hang on a minute,” Casey, the lead guitarist spoke. He turned to Nik. “Apologise.”

Nik blinked up at Casey. The guy had balls standing up to him like this and if he wasn’t such a brilliant song writer, Nik would tell him where to go. But he wasn’t apologising. No way. And he wasn’t hiring a female drummer. No way. Who the hell did she think she was anyway?

Turning back to the bleached blond babe, he shook his head. She was a fiery one and she wasn’t shy in defying him. He didn’t like that in a woman. But he couldn’t deny that body of hers either. Long legs, curved hips, breasts just the right size. Yeah, he could take her to bed any day. But those stubborn chocolate brown eyes told him she wasn’t the type to let him. It could make for an interesting challenge. It wouldn’t make for a great member of his band however, and he didn’t have enough patience to hear her out. So he did the only thing he could think of.

He stood and turned back to Casey. “I’m too tired for this shit. You listen. I’ll wait outside.”

He did just that too. Made his way to the other side of the shabby, ready-to-fall-down dividing wall. About to make his way out altogether.

Until he heard her play.

The sweet sound brought him to a halt. He listened. With his ears and with his brain. She was good, could even rival his old mate Bobby Dale. Her timing was impeccable, her touch perfect as every note hit the right spot. Smooth as honey and enticing his heart to beat along in time. Nik could almost hear Bobby’s voice whisper to him from beyond the grave that she’d make an irreplaceable addition to the band.

But she was a woman and Tantaliser was a male band. They thrived on the adoration of their legions of female fans, relied on the male fans who wanted to emulate them. They couldn’t add a woman to the mix. Hell no. Granted, she was a hot chic but that attitude grated on him already. Yet, he couldn’t move. Standing in the shadows and listening to her caress the skins, he imagined her under the spotlight and looking mighty fine in whatever she wore.

He felt heat rush to his groin, the sensation taking him by surprise. So what if she was hot? Normally, he could admit that without going all teenage-horn-bag. But for the first time in a long time, his libido kicked in with the intention of making up for such a long absence. There was a time when he didn’t think he’d ever get hard again. A time when the doctors warned him all that booze was either going to leave him impotent or kill him.

He tried to remember when that had been. Twelve months ago? Longer? He knew he hadn’t been with a woman for at least that long and now here he was, all needy over some babe giving him more cheek than he could stand.

Her music filled his ears, while the hormones raging through his body filled his visions with images of hot, uninhibited sex. Almost doubling at the waist, he choked on a cough at the strength of the hard-on. Good God, he thought as he fell to his knees. Hands on hips, he took deep breaths and waited for the need to pass. Even as a teenager he hadn’t given in to foolish fantasy and yet right now…he squeezed his eyes shut…unsure whether he wanted the visions to vanish or continue.

Somewhere, from out of some dark corner of his mind, he recalled a recent interview. That reporter, what was her name? Rachel…something. Damn her. She hadn’t mentioned Charlie was a woman. Or a damn fine looking one.

No, he couldn’t let her join the band. Not if he got hard every time he saw her, heard her voice. Still, he couldn’t deny the swelling and throbbing in his groin felt good.

Lucky for him, she finally stopped. The silence that followed weighed heavily on his shoulders. As a bad boy, it wasn’t unusual for him to walk out but he felt like a complete heel having walked out on her. Smart mouth or no, she deserved her credit. In two minds whether to go back, he listened as Casey spoke.

“That was bloody fantastic, love,” Casey chimed. Nik knew genuine flattery when he heard it. “You’re real good. Where did you learn to play like that?”

There was a brief pause before she answered. “I taught myself.”

She taught herself to play? Guilt flooded through Nik but he still wasn’t going to apologise.

“School of hard knocks, eh?” Skeet, the keyboards man, piped up. If anyone knew about the school of hard knocks, it was Skeet.

She chuckled, the sound almost melodic. “Something like that.”

“Are you currently in a band?” Casey continued.

“Yes,” she said, her voice filled with pride. “We’ve played a few parties. Nothing too big.”

“So why did you come here today?”

She chuckled. “A dare, of sorts. Seems I won.”

Nik cringed. He’d been played and tested and he’d failed miserably. Good to see he was still the dumb-ass, backward hick from the shitty end of town. Good to see he still fit the stereotype. Well, he’d soon put an end to that.

He stood, determined to go in there and set her straight, but his groin ached and he knew his flushed face would give him away. She’d know he’d been listening, know that she was right and had caught him out. Damn her.

“Look,” she started, triumph in her voice. “It’s obvious you guys are after a male drummer. That’s okay, really. I’ll just collect my coveralls and be out of your hair then. Thanks for letting me play.”

To his right, she appeared. Carrying those grey coveralls and her sticks, she strode through the dim warehouse. A victorious grin played on those enticing red lips, light danced in her eyes. Damn but he wanted to follow, show her he wasn’t some meat head singer.

It struck him that if he let her go now, he’d never see her again, never hear that talent with the skins again. But he couldn’t have her join the band. Out of the question.

Confused as ever, he got to his feet. His size ten hoofs moved of their own volition, taking him in her direction. Lord but he was in trouble now.

~

Unable to contain her smugness, she grinned up at the sun. Rachel was going to die when she heard Nik had walked out. He’d proven to be the sexist pig everyone thought he was. She loved proving Rachel wrong, and in this instance, her best friend couldn’t have been further from the truth about the all-knowing, all-conquering lead singer of Tantaliser. Oh man, Charlie skipped toward the Chevy, this couldn’t have gone better.

Unlocking the passenger door, she opened it, threw in the coveralls and set her prized sticks on the seat. As she removed her arm from the cabin, a firm hand swung the door shut, missing her fingers by mere centimetres. She turned angrily to find Nicholas St. Eve in her face.

Heat rolled off him in waves as he backed her up to the car, pressed his hardness against her and claimed her mouth. Fighting him at first, she tried to resist the heat, that tongue, those lips, but it was useless. His musky scent flowed through her as his hands clamped around her face.

Slanting his lips this way and that, he possessed her mouth with expert skill. He’d probably done this a thousand times, to as many women, and yet her heart raced and heat pooled low in her belly. Feeling him hard against her, she thrust her tongue into his mouth, the two dancing hungrily as the heat from his fingers branded her. She wedged her hands between them, flattening them against his chest. Then, with an almighty shove, she pushed him away.

“Take your hands off me.”

He swallowed, his lips red, his breathing ragged. “You will never join my band, babe.”

She laughed, trying to cover her need to have him hard up against her again. “Because I don’t have a Y chromosome. You really are a pig.”

Blinking, he shook his head. “If only you knew.”

“Fine!” She huffed indignantly. “Allow me to show you that a woman always does it better. I’ll beat you at your own game St. Eve. You won’t know what hit you.”

He grinned. “Bring it on, babe.”

With that, he turned and disappeared back into the warehouse leaving Charlie dazed. With the naiveté of a schoolgirl, she pressed her fingertips to her lips and let the memory of the kiss wash over her.

Pig he may be, but he sure knew how to kiss a girl stupid.

~~

You can purchase Tantaliser from a couple of places. And don't forget, I'd love to hear what you think of it. (Email addy on my website).

Gay Erotic Romance Fiction

2006-03-06T15:29:00.000-08:00

Well, a few weeks back went we were asked to suggest and schedule blog entries I picked this topic. It seemed logical because I specialise in writing erotic romance concerning gay male couples. Although print opportunities remain limited gay male erotic romance is very popular with e-publishers and their readers. And although Brokeback Mountain didn't quite carry off the oscar the fact it came so close suggests that gay romance is beginning to reach a wider audience.

In case you haven't come across it here are a few things to note. Gay erotic romance fiction that bears the hallmarks of big 'R' Romance (focus in emotions, happy endings) is read mainly by women. You will often find it under a category heading such as 'alternative' or 'non-traditional' along with lesbian, three-some and other romantic possibilities. It is often referred to by writers and fans using terms such as 'original slash', 'yaoi' and 'm/m' (although each phrase adds certain nuances of meaning).

If you are interested in gay romance there are a few places to check out. The landmark epublisher of gay romance is Torquere Press which covers both sweet and sexy romance and always has anthologies open for short stories. The biggest exisitng e-publisher Ellora's Cave is now openly looking for gay romance submission. Both of these publishers also release some of their titles in paperback format.

A good place to find your feet in this genre is the Erotic Romance Writers' Forum which covers all types of erotic romance but has many members who specialise in m/m. It is base for the ERWF Blog Circle were authors post each others new release notices on their blogs

If you are already writing and release gay romance there are many publicity options open that focus on this genre, including the web portal Uniquely Pleasurable and the e-group homo-promo.

If anyone is interested in learning more please feel free to contact me at ERWF or directly at veingloryATgmail.com

Role Call

2006-03-06T05:51:00.000-08:00

Hi all,

Been a bit quiet around here of late.

NEway, to get the ball rolling I'm going to post a question.

PROMOTION???????

That's all I really need to say right?

Well, what items have you got and $$? What do you send your pubs and how much of? Invaluable gems to shar for all? ...well, mainly me. *grins*

Getting back the passion

2006-02-26T22:55:00.000-08:00

I've been working on getting the passion back into my writing. I lost it just before Christmas and haven't really got it back. Too much playing around on the internet, worrying if I really can write a novel and generally looking for external approval instead of internal satisfaction. Plus all the normal chaos of work, friends and family. You know, life.

But I've realised that writing involves dedication and hard work. Ha, you say, you've only just realised that? Well, intellectually I've always known that, but my gut has just caught up. Because there comes a time when you have to make a decision about what's important. Writing is important to me so I need to find my passion again.

And it means that other decisions have to be made. So after several weeks of indecision, I've decided not to apply for a job that lots of people expected me to apply for. I would have meant more money but unfortunately more responsibility. Been there, done that, don't want to do it again.

It's amazing how a weight has been lifted after taking that step. Now I can get back to my wip.

Have you ever put writing first even though others may have thought it the wrong decision?

More Great News

2006-02-25T18:35:00.000-08:00

Jodici Belle sold her 2nd novel, A Devil's Proposal to New Concepts Publishing! You can read about it on her blog.

March is going to rock! 3 of us have new releases, so be sure to keep an eye out for the weekend wrap ups.

Oh, and on a little sad note, one of my fishies died. Poor thing, got tangled up in the fake, plastic plant!

Lookee what I found...

2006-02-25T03:04:00.000-08:00

Surfin' the net and I found a couple of little things...

Karen Mandeville's interview is up at Fallen Angel's Reviews. Click here. And she's a feature muse at behindthemuses.com. Click here.

Sarah Dickson is a spotlight author over at Romance Junkies. Click here. And wow, there's a lot going on there!

So drop by and see what these Oz ladies are up to!

What's the latest?

2006-02-24T02:18:00.000-08:00

It's been all quiet on the writing front...so I'm guessing all our members are buried up to their eyeballs in manuscripts or edits.

Me? Edits. And real life. Otherwise known as the day job. Sometimes I forget how demanding teaching can be...other times I seem to be cruising...what's with that do you reckon? Oh, and writing. No time for blogging or blog-hopping this week. Too busy. And lately, too hot.

The Oz summer has kicked in again and we're sweltering. So have a little mercy on us poor Aussies!

Tantaliser comes out this week! OMG My first book. Gah. That's March 1. Man oh man am I nervous. Sales, reviews...I don't even think it's possible to avoid the internet so I'll have to grin and bear whatever comes my way.

Okay, enough from me. Let's see what else our esteemed members have to brag about.

In need of a good laugh

2006-02-22T19:05:00.000-08:00

Notice the lack of a question mark in the title? Yes, it is a statement not a question. Now us Aussie Sheila's have a great sense of humour, and after scrapping a 4000wd submission to write something totally new and doing a total plot rewrite of The Rat Of Fury, I needed a good old belly buster.

Sometimes research is not one's friend I say, and if you can't find a way to write an original story about earth people, then invent a new planet like I did.
Anyways, enough moaning...let's get to the funny stuff.

I'm not sure if anyone of you have seen these before, but I can tell you they are worth the revisit if you have. If not well, take your time and get ready to laugh because these redone romance book covers are a scream.

Longmire Does Romance

Ahh back to writing, I feel so much better now!
Anna

Writing stalled, so has computer

2006-02-20T12:44:00.000-08:00

Do you ever have one of those times when writing is going very badly and then everything else in your life starts to act up?

I've been struggling lately, trying to workout goals, voice, motivation, yadda, yadda, yadda and then last night my computer got a virus. It was my own fault. I've been slack with security since I got a new computer and then browsing some blogs to find some ideas to tart up mine, I fell into the evil site of contamination. Now after struggling most of the evening to fix it, I've given up and will take it to the computer doctor today. Luckily I still have my old computer. It's slow and makes odd noises, but at least it works.

The lesson from all this? Set up your computer properly with all the security you need and back up.

The other lesson is to work out the problems with writing rather than look for diversion. Yeah, sure.

And I forgot - if you are interested in a rather odd, not romantic erotic story, I have one on the latest Story Gallery page at ERWA. It's about a fetish. Nothing I've ever written about before but part of a theme weekend at ERWA so I thought I'd give it a go. There are some other terrific stories there as well.

I might have to start thinking about those five guilty pleasures too. Mmm....

Tagged ... now you are 'IT'!

2006-02-18T13:28:00.000-08:00

Okay - don't hate me but I was 'tagged' and I fulfilled my obligation of revealing five guilty pleasures on my blog.
Now, I have tagged the Aussie Romance Writers to reveal theirs!

Each person is invited to reveal five things that give them guilty pleasures ... should be interesting!!

Have fun

Karen Mandeville

All quiet on the writing front...

2006-02-17T21:45:00.000-08:00

So it has been a little quiet this week. I have been officially welcomed into the Liquid Silver Books forum, and my book, Can You Keep A Secret? already has its own Coming Soon thread. Quite the funny bone tickler when you consider the contract and cover art specs were only completed this week! Still, it is nice to be welcomed there.

In lieu of outrageously exciting news, I would like to pose a question. You see, I have had a rather terrible week at work, a problem compounded by my desire to drop everything and write, write, write. So to my question goes to all writers...

How do you find the balance between writing and real life? And if you're like me and work a full time job outside of writing, how do you find the balance there?

I'd be very interested to hear your answers.

2006-02-12T14:20:00.001-08:00

Well hello everyone!
I hope everyone is well and that the sun is shining where you are!
News from my neck of the woods.
Brand new cover! If you'd like to check out (and check it out) head over to my yahoogroup to see the cover for my novella Lust Thy Neighbor available in April with Triskelion Publishing.

I have been working on a novella and a novel. I have put both of them aside to start another novella but I was thinking I could cut them into shorter stories and have a series. Will have to put that on my list of things to discuss with my publisher. That's a good question for both readers and my fellow authors. I have too many things on the go at the moment and I'm trying to just narrow it down and focus. I'm gearing up for my next two releases - Lust Thy Neighbor and my short story in the Spring Fling Anthology with Whiskey Creek Press Torrid. Spring Fling is the next installment of the seasonal anthologies. My first short story is in the Winter Wishes Anthology.

AUTHORS: Do you come up with the length of the story before or during your writing?
READERS: Do you prefer to read a variety of lengths of stories or do you just prefer the one?

Other news ... I have a few chats coming up. You can check out my website - http://www.karenmandeville.com for dates, locations and times.

Another thing I think I have difficulty with is titles ... do any of my aussie authors have trouble with titles??

Well that's about it for me ... as I said ... hope you are all well.
Check out that cover ... and take a spoon!!

Karen M

Weekly Wrap Up

2006-02-10T03:45:00.000-08:00

First week of February and already we have some great news for you!

~~

Karen Mandeville's The Dead Forest, got a recommended read and a 5 out of 5 rating from FAR. Follow this link for more!

http://www.fallenangelreviews.com/2006/January/Sadie-TheDeadForest.htm

~~

Sarah Dickson's Distant Souls is released and she has an interview at Romance Junkies.

~~

I (Laura) received my cover for my second book, One Foot Forward. And my contemporary romance, Can You Keep A Secret? was bought by Liquid Silver Books. (Formerly titled His Secret Santa) I'm also in the process of changing webhosts, so my site will be down temporarily. The blog still works, but you can find my website at this temp addy: http://box84.bluehost.com/~lrmiddle/index.html. And there's a free Valentine's Day read for anyone who drops in!

~~

Be sure to drop in on Monday for Karen's feature post! Have a good weekend in the meantime.

Hugs,

Laura

Let me tell You About The Rat Of Fury

2006-02-08T14:44:00.000-08:00

Hi everyone
just on the previous post note from Laura, I wanted to agree with her points by using my latest WIP The Rat Of Fury. My previously book has hot and heavy sex, for my first I had assumed the publisher would focus on that for a romance erotica. In actual fact it was probably the fantasy element(Merman)and the storyline that got it over the finish line. I know that now.

After reviewing books and reading many I soon realized that the sex can soon become boring, run of the mill and very cliche if it is there for the sake of it.

Your point about the characters dictating the heat level is very true Laura. You can't just race them all into bed or anywhere else for rampant sex if the heroine is a shy, easily embarrassed type.

I was invited onto The Jaded Beast digest series by Mae Powers, a fellow Phaze author and involved in the inner workings of Midnight Showcase publisher. She had pitched them an idea about a series featuring a connection with the animals from the chinese horoscope.

The other guidelines were the heroines must be strong, it had to be an action/adventure and have a fantasy/paranormal/timetravel element/s. Having seen the list of remaining animals I researched the character traits and immediately decided on the Rat, cunning, resourceful, quick, etc.

Just as quickly as I decided that I knew that the erotic component would remain at the sensual level. There would be no hot and heavy sex scenes for Sunshine Brightman, she would get it on, but the scenes would call on more subtlety and anticipation than in depth description.

Why? I'm not sure, only that her character demanded a level of privacy. It's just not in her personality to get down and dirty in public...LOL. Oh yes, we do get emotionally attached to our characters don't we?

I have just loved creating this story so much and I will be very proud to lead out the digest in June/July with The Ox. Each book will cover two signs, two stories on each. My deadline is in april and I can't wait to get some excerpts posted.

So, yeah to answer the question How Much Is Enough? As much as the characters and yourself are comfortable with, no more, no less
Anna Fallon
www.annaf.net

How much is enough?

2006-02-07T01:03:00.000-08:00

A sex question for today’s romance writer.

Four years ago, after eight long years lost in the teaching wilderness and not writing, I returned to the craft. My “comeback” novel, as I like to refer to it, was an action-packed, adventure story with a minor romance. Oh, and it had no sex in it whatsoever – not even a hint. It’s what the story dictated. Besides, the hero and heroine were too busy dodging bullets and machetes to worry about jumping in the sack. About a month after I finished up that 600 word blockbuster, I picked up a strange new line from Harlequin romance.

It was a Blaze.

I was blown away. I mean, um, can you say explicit? Can you say sex with a capital S.E.X? Okay, let me put this into perspective. I was 26 and far from naïve, but I was so shell-shocked by that story and yet so uncannily enticed. Could I write something with A) a sexy premise, and B) graphic sex? In short, yes.

Since then, I’ve broadened my horizons in writing romance. I’ve watched in awe as new publishers and lines open up, expanding and pushing the boundaries when it comes to sex in romance, the language of sex and the place of sex in a story. From romance to romantica, to erotic romance to erotica, the lines have blurred and I’ve begun to wonder what I want in a romance and how far I want the sex to go. I mean, how many different ways can you package it?

I’ve also witnessed the varied debates raging over the place of sex, the explicitness of language and erotic content in romance and seen so many sides represented it makes my head spin. I’ve been asked: isn’t it just porn for women? Does it cheapen the romantic element? Shouldn’t all romance stories have a happily ever after? Should these stories and publishers be recognised by the RWA? And my personal favourite, why so much sex?

In some ways, it reminds me of the adage, sex sells. (Just like hot, sexy models on covers do, but that’s a story for another day *g*.)

As a writer, I’ve experimented widely with all of these elements and I’m finding that while I do have a personal style and preference, I don’t want to be limited on this issue. If my lovely muse, Bertha, brings to me a pair of characters, like Macy and Lucius, who simply can’t keep their hands off each other, then it’s my joy to write their story. And if she decides to send characters like Lucy and Kit my way, whose past relationship provides the ultimate conflict and they don’t jump straight into bed, then I’ll gladly write their story too.

In the end, I’ve come to a simple conclusion: sex in the story MUST move the story forward. It can’t be thrown in there for the sake of it, or just because you want to publish with a particular house or snag a certain agent. And quite frankly, if your story can deliver the same impact without the descriptions of sex, then leave it out. It MUST be integral to the story, to the developing narrative and the growth of each, respective character. Because otherwise, what’s the point? If your characters can fall in love and find each other without the open sex, then write them that way.

The current market for romance and all its sub-genres is so diverse, it’s almost a blessing. And I really think everyone wins. Of course, figuring out which publisher to submit to and target, can be rather frightening for the uninitiated. An agent can help, but for those of us who don’t have an agent, we need to be careful because the water is very deep in some places and if you can’t swim...

Every romance writer, published or not, needs to make this decision for herself (or himself). But I admit, it’s a persuasive market out there. Right now, erotica is hot. But then, so were vampires and werewolves. Don’t get me wrong, I believe every genre and sub-genre has its place, and much of them are benefiting from lucrative – or should I say seductive? – marketing. My only hope is that we’re making these decisions with our brains rather than the utterly addictive desire to publish.

What are your thoughts on this?

G'day from Sarah

2006-02-05T13:58:00.000-08:00

Hi
It's about time I introduced myself.

I live in Queensland with DH and 2 dogs. Its been so hot. Argh! To get around it I have been holing in my only air-conditioned room in the house, editing.

I have gone through final edits of two of my books and am doing a once-over on a third. Once I've done that I'll do a spot of R&R with some painting.

As for my stories? I have some out already and plan a few more this year. They vary in length from short stories to novels. It's good to balance the word count at times. Writing novel after novel can be exhausting so I have found a shorter story makes a good break.

Now for the interesting stuff

I have a book coming out in just over a week called Distant Souls - it’s based on the sin of sloth and is set in outback NSW. This story just ‘came’ to me, which I really like.
I also have two more books in March which I will brag about another time :-)

Oh, while you're about, take a peek at http://www.sarahdickson.com for excerpts, reviews and gorgeous book covers.

Sarah

2006-02-03T04:58:00.000-08:00

G'day Everyone,

I'm another Aussie author gripped by the desire to write. And, have been for as long as I can remember. As yet, there are no sold novels under my belt, only poetry. But, I've gotta start somewhere, right? The point is I'm LIVING when I write.

Of course, I'm a member of Romance Divas. What an amazing site! I'm usually surrounded by two children as I type my romantic stories and live in my character's shoes.

I reside in sunny Queensland, close to the water and love it here. I'm working hard on my current work in progress and am thrilled that this blog is dedicated to Aussie authors.

Go Laura!!

Anna Fallon- Erotic Romance Author

2006-01-29T23:03:00.000-08:00

Hi
Wow, this is a fantastic idea! I'm from St Helens in Tasmania and I have been wanting to communicate with other Aussie romance authors for ages.

Okay a bit about me.

My first published short story, Sea Lover, came out with www.phaze.com It is an Erotic romance between a woman, Leanna, who lives in the city and a Merman called Noah. Leanna struggles with her duties as a career woman and a dedicated daughter to an aging mother, and being with the Merman of her dreams.

Anyway, Sea Lover, was published in June last year and since then I have been working on my promotional stuff.

I now have a story coming in the www.midnightshowcase.com Digest- Jaded Beasts, called The Rat of Fury. This Digest series is based on strong heroines, a paranormal or fantasy type theme using stories based on the animals in the chinese horoscope. These start release in June this year.

I also have a double digest coming in October this year for Torrid Teasers at www.whiskeycreekpresstorrid.com This is called I'm All E.A.R.S and is a paranormal about an Earth Angel Rescue Society. These two stories I have tried to make fun as well, I have a good Aussie support character, I think he will feature more in future sequels.

Well, there is more but I won't bore you all to death on the first post. Love to answer any comments or questions.
Arousingly Yours
Anna

Introducing Emily

2006-01-28T09:40:00.000-08:00

Emily Veinglory

I am a Sydney-born New Zealander, currently living in the United States. I have been writing romance, erotic romance, erotica, fantasy and non-fiction for the last six years. I am best known for e-published gay romance novellas such as Eclipse of the Heart available from Loose Id Press. My most recent release is the story ‘Thanatos’ in the trade paperback ‘Vamprotica 2005’ (cover art shown here). You can also read my fantasy story ‘The Lost Souls of Cats’ at Quantum Muse.

You can find me online at the veinglory homepages and on the Erotic Romance Writers’ Forum (ERWF). You will notice that my blogger account is called ‘POD People’ – this related to another project of mine, a site for reviews of self-published books.

Emily’s books at: Amazon.com : Loose Id : Torquere : Phaze

From the land of downunder

2006-01-27T14:39:00.000-08:00

Hey everyone, finally... an Aussie site dedicated to writers, both pubbed abd un-pubbed. Christina here from Melbourne. Mum of two children, two dogs, two horses, two birds and seven goldfish.

A Great Day in Oz

2006-01-25T04:43:00.000-08:00

G’day and Happy Australia Day to all you Aussie lovelies and lovely Aussie watchers

Introducing myself will have to wait,

‘Cause this is a day to celebrate.

Whatever you’ve got on your plate,

I hope your Australia Day’s just great!

Want an Australia Day Crossword? Find-a-word? Colouring-in for the kids? http://www.australiaday.gov.au/funandgames.asp

Or recipes so you can chow down on good Aussie Tucker
http://members.tripod.com/~damsel2_2/ChowDown.html

Try a game of Hangaroo
http://www.miniclip.com/hangaroo.htm

How about a quiz to see how much you know about our country?
http://www.australiadaynt.com.au/fun/quiz/quiz2006.html

Want the words or sheet music to our anthem?
http://www.itsanhonour.gov.au/singing_anthem.html

See some Aussie humour
http://www.humour.com.au/list.php?pagenum=0&catid=24

Learn to speak Strine like she’s spoke
http://www.store.yahoo.net/upfromaustralia/aussieslang.html

Bonzer mate. Catch ya later,

Babe

tap tap Is this mic on?

2006-01-23T06:56:00.000-08:00

Hi everyone, My name is Karen Mandeville and I'm a writeraholic. Hang on ... that's not right! Well ... it is a little. I hail from Newcastle in NSW where the beaches are beautiful. I'm thrilled to be part of this group and want the rest of the world to sit up and take note to the callibre some Aussie authors are able to achieve.
I've had a great start to the New Year with the release of two of my works, my debut novel, The Dead Forest has been well received and is available now through Triskelion Publishing ...
and my short story, For His Delight, in the Winter Wishes Anthology with Whiskey Creek Press Torrid ...

I have a total of eight contracts lined up for 2006 - and sitting on the verge of number nine!

If you'd like to read more about me, my writing or reviews for my work - head over to http://www.karenmandeville.com

I'm part of Romance Divas, the Aussie RWA, the NSW Writer's Centre, The Great Escape Artists and Behind the Muses with my buddy, Maggie Nash.

I also have a newsletter, BeDevilled that comes out once a month with sneak peeks and lots of other goodies - and it's FREE - all you have to do is sign up to http://groups.yahoo.com/group/karenmandeville

So come on over - don't be shy - say hello and watch the rest of the Aussie Authors for their fabulous work!!

Karen M

2006-01-21T11:48:00.000-08:00

Hi folks!
I’m Keziah Hill from the beautiful Blue Mountains in NSW. I’m unpublished but hopeful. I do have a story in the Treasure Chest over at the Erotica Readers and Writers Association called Laying Down the Law. I’m a member of Storytime at ERWA and some of my stories have appeared in the monthly Story Galleries as well. In fact there’s one coming up in February.

Like everyone else on this blog I’m a member of Romance Divas. I’m also a member of RWAOnline and Passionate Ink the erotic romance chapter of RWAmerica. But of course, being an Aussie I’m a member of RWAustralia as well.

When Laura asked me to join this blog I started wondering, are Aussie writers different to other writers? I’m not sure. Apart from the fact that I’m writing this in the middle of summer (and it’s been hot folks, 113F on New Years Day) what makes us different? I think we’ve all got a touch of larrikinism which makes us a bit irreverent. I’d like to think so anyway.

Now here’s a question. Apart from us (of course) what other Australian writers do you read? Stay tuned for some great links to our favorites.

Howdy Folks!

2006-01-19T12:26:00.000-08:00

Okay, my turn...

My name is Maggie Nash and I hail from beautiful downtown Sydney. I'm a member or Romance Writers of Australia, and currently one of the vice- presidents. This is a wonderful organisation and a great support and resource to me. I encourage all Aussie writers to join.

I'm also one of the Romance Divas and can be seen there often procra...er, networking! My first book "Crash and Burn", a contemporary romantic suspense, was published by Triskelion Publishing in September 2005. I have another coming out in an anthology this June. This one is called "Deep Cover" and it's an erotic romantic suspense. Very hot!

I also have a Newsletter group you are very welcome to join. It's not a chat group, so no clogging your inbox

I'm also invoved in 2 wonderful groups of authors:

Behind the Muses and The League of Amazing Writers

These are chat loops and great places to hang for fun and wonderful excerpts! On the LAW we are planning workshops for writers in the near future...so drop by!

Okay, enough about me...drop by anytime and say hello! Next time you never know what I'll say...hehehe....

Jodici introduces herself

2006-01-17T15:55:00.000-08:00

Hi gang. Welcome to the world of romance...down under!

I would like to take this moment to introduce myself. My name is Jodici Belle, and I also have a book due out in March. New Concepts Publishing, a wonderful e-book publisher, has scooped me up and will launch my debut novel, HIS UNEXPECTED BRIDE. This Regency romp is all about the Maquis of Rutledge and his wily plans that land him in hot water when his fictitious betrothed (Miss Hinglebottom) is very real! To find out more, click here.

I am a proud member of Romance Divas, a wonderful writing forum that offers, comradery, knowledge and a lot of quizzes! You won't find cattiness there!

I live in Queensland and only an hour and half drive to the Gold coast. (wahoo) I love to read all types of books and have a particular interest in creating a career in writing in both paranormal and historical works.

If you'd like to know more about me, visit my website or my blog and drop me a line.

Lots of love
Jodici

Hello and Welcome

2006-01-15T17:01:00.000-08:00

I would love to welcome you all to this exciting new project: Aussie Romance Writers!

Over time, I hope that we can build a team of Australian writers of romance who will post on various topics, everything from writing related news to latest releases to what's going on in the world of romance writing.

Allow me to begin...I'm Laura Rose Middleton and my debut book is due out in March. It is called Tantaliser and follows the journey of the bad boy of rock, Nik St. Eve and the sexy drummer who gives him more cheek than he can stand, Charlie Brown. If you want to see more, click on the cover below!

In addition, I'm a proud member of Romance Divas. This is a forum co-founded by the magificent Jax, the fashionable Kristen and the lovely Lisa. It is a place where romance writers of all levels can share, laugh and cry, enjoy the ups and downs of the journey to publishing and the journey through life. I like this forum because it isn't put together by any single publisher, which means you're free to explore all avenues of publishing and won't feel obligated to any one publisher. RD opened my eyes to a world of publishing outisde Harlequin and I am very grateful.

Membership to RD is free and I can assure you'll be welcomed with open arms. So come on over and check it out.

(Edited to add) Who can you expect to meet? Keep an eye out at these times...

Jan 18, 2006 ~ Jodici Belle

Jan 20, 2006 ~ Maggie Nash

Jan 22, 2006 ~ Keziah Hill

Jan 24, 2006 ~ Karen Mandeville

Jan 26, 2006 ~ Babe King

You can see their profiles in the sidebar, and please, visit their home pages and see what's going on in their lives. Hope to see you around!