K.C. Kendricks's Blog, page 79
September 9, 2014
Everyone loves lists - my top ten classic rock albums
September 9, 2014
I’m a rock ‘n roll baby. Well, being a product of the sixties and seventies, the nineteen seventies, that is, I guess I’d better say I’m a CLASSIC ROCK ‘n roll baby.
Everyone loves lists. Top five. Top ten. Top fifty. Top one hundred. How far can one spread the joy? When it comes to music, pretty darn far. There’s no escaping lists, so if you can’t beat ‘em, join ‘em. Right?
Recently I read someone’s blog with their top fifty album picks. Of their picks, I only had TWO of the works. It got me thinking.
“If you were stuck on a desert island and could only choose ten albums…..”
It turned out to be harder than I thought, but not impossible. Ranking them? That is impossible. Each defines a time in my life, good or bad. So here’s my list, with some brief comments on why each album speaks to me.
Agree or disagree, it doesn’t matter. It’s my list, so get over it.
Madman Across the Water – Elton John (1971)
If anyone has laid down the soundtrack of my life, it has to be Elton. Every song brings back a memory, but none as sweet and soulful as those invoked by “Tiny Dancer”, the first Elton song I ever heard, and still my favorite of all. Elton’s clear tenor and clean piano set the stage for a love affair that has lasted forty-three years, much longer than my marriages. I still sing along every time this song comes on the radio.
News of the World – Queen (1977)
From the arena anthem of “We Will Rock You” and “We Are the Champions”, to the gut-wrenching love gone awry of “It’s Late,” News of the World is seamless. With less orchestration than previous albums, this album lays the groundwork for the future of Queen. News of the World sparkles, ice cold at times, as it serves up generous helping of male angst and aggression while showcasing the incredible vocals of Freddie Mercury. I saw Queen in concert after News of the World was released. It's still an incredible piece of work.
Rumours – Fleetwood Mac (1977)
One of the top-selling albums of all time, worldwide, Rumours rocks with emotion. Every rocker knows the story of the group at this point (find it on Google if you don’t because I don’t have space here). It’s Stevie Nicks asking “have you any dreams you’d like to sell” that drew me in. Maybe I was out of dreams in 1977. Who knows? I saw FM in concert at the old Capital Centre. We waited all day to get good seats and the wait paid off. Rumours still plays as fresh as when it was released thirty-seven years ago.
All the Right Reasons – Nickelback (2005)
What is it with this album? Other than Chad Kroger’s ass looks good in tight jeans, that is. And that raspy voice (shades of Rod Stewart). I don’t know and I don’t care what it is about this album. I like it. My pick of the album? “Next Contestant”, a testosterone-driven ditty with a male-to-male caveman message. I’m sure other drivers wonder why I’m grinning like a fool when it plays but I've witnessed first hand the behavior the song is about. Next Contestant is also my ringtone for an unknown caller.
Anthology - .38 SpecialIt’s true. I like Southern Rock, and .38 Special are the good, the bad, and the ugly of the genre. When they miss, they miss. But when they strike, it’s chain lightning. Anthology weeds out most, but not all, of the misses and allows the guitars to fall where they may.
Back in Black – AC/DC (1980)
The true definition of “edgy” to me. It’s not people my age playing songs from this on the jukebox at the bowling alley. It’s teenagers. The message doesn’t need to be put into words, although it was. “Rock and Roll Ain’t Noise Pollution, rock and roll will never die.” Back in Black is the ONLY album I have on vinyl, cassette, CD and yes, my God, I actually had it on 8-track. Thank heavens it didn't cost anything to put it on my iPod and Evo.
Led Zeppelin II – Led Zeppelin (1970)My introduction to FM radio came screaming out of the air from the land of the ice and snow, from the midnight sun where the hot springs blow. With front man Robert Plant’s painted on jeans and Jimmy Page’s painted on smirk, they climbed a stairway to heaven to prove Zeppelin truly was the hammer of the gods to rock and roll. What more can be said except, "Get the Led out..."
In Step – Stevie Ray Vaughan (1989)Stevie who? I’d no clue when a friend presented me with a ticket to a dual concert. Stevie Ray Vaughan first, followed by Gregg Allman on the I’m No Angel tour. By the end of the SRV set, I could be ranked among his fans. SRV is often imitated but there is only one Stevie Ray. The tradgey of his loss is that he'd finally put his life together and had begun to realize the promise of his talent. Only the good die young.
Psycho City – Great White (1992)
Great White is a frequently bypassed band. Marred by tragedy and substance abuse, the band is no more, but to me Psycho City stands as its proudest moment. Big guitar riffs, perfectly executed piano bridges, and raspy vocals begging for love while acting the cock of the walk merge for some hard driving rock music.
Born in the USA – Bruce Springsteen (1984)
No. It wasn't his ass that made Bruce a star (but it helped). Springsteen came of age with Born in the USA. He’s not been this good since. Cult artist or rock superstar, Bruce both lifted up and tore down middle-class America with the songs on this album. If you hadn’t lived it, you at least recognized it, and I bet you can still sing along to every song.
***
And that’s my top ten classic rock albums. I have a few honorable mentions, but since the steamer trunk to that desert island has to hold a lot of sunscreen, I just don’t have room for them tonight.
KC
http://www.kckendricks.com
http://www.twitter.com/kckendricks
I’m a rock ‘n roll baby. Well, being a product of the sixties and seventies, the nineteen seventies, that is, I guess I’d better say I’m a CLASSIC ROCK ‘n roll baby.
Everyone loves lists. Top five. Top ten. Top fifty. Top one hundred. How far can one spread the joy? When it comes to music, pretty darn far. There’s no escaping lists, so if you can’t beat ‘em, join ‘em. Right?
Recently I read someone’s blog with their top fifty album picks. Of their picks, I only had TWO of the works. It got me thinking.
“If you were stuck on a desert island and could only choose ten albums…..”
It turned out to be harder than I thought, but not impossible. Ranking them? That is impossible. Each defines a time in my life, good or bad. So here’s my list, with some brief comments on why each album speaks to me.
Agree or disagree, it doesn’t matter. It’s my list, so get over it.
Madman Across the Water – Elton John (1971)
If anyone has laid down the soundtrack of my life, it has to be Elton. Every song brings back a memory, but none as sweet and soulful as those invoked by “Tiny Dancer”, the first Elton song I ever heard, and still my favorite of all. Elton’s clear tenor and clean piano set the stage for a love affair that has lasted forty-three years, much longer than my marriages. I still sing along every time this song comes on the radio.
News of the World – Queen (1977)
From the arena anthem of “We Will Rock You” and “We Are the Champions”, to the gut-wrenching love gone awry of “It’s Late,” News of the World is seamless. With less orchestration than previous albums, this album lays the groundwork for the future of Queen. News of the World sparkles, ice cold at times, as it serves up generous helping of male angst and aggression while showcasing the incredible vocals of Freddie Mercury. I saw Queen in concert after News of the World was released. It's still an incredible piece of work.
Rumours – Fleetwood Mac (1977)
One of the top-selling albums of all time, worldwide, Rumours rocks with emotion. Every rocker knows the story of the group at this point (find it on Google if you don’t because I don’t have space here). It’s Stevie Nicks asking “have you any dreams you’d like to sell” that drew me in. Maybe I was out of dreams in 1977. Who knows? I saw FM in concert at the old Capital Centre. We waited all day to get good seats and the wait paid off. Rumours still plays as fresh as when it was released thirty-seven years ago.
All the Right Reasons – Nickelback (2005)
What is it with this album? Other than Chad Kroger’s ass looks good in tight jeans, that is. And that raspy voice (shades of Rod Stewart). I don’t know and I don’t care what it is about this album. I like it. My pick of the album? “Next Contestant”, a testosterone-driven ditty with a male-to-male caveman message. I’m sure other drivers wonder why I’m grinning like a fool when it plays but I've witnessed first hand the behavior the song is about. Next Contestant is also my ringtone for an unknown caller.
Anthology - .38 SpecialIt’s true. I like Southern Rock, and .38 Special are the good, the bad, and the ugly of the genre. When they miss, they miss. But when they strike, it’s chain lightning. Anthology weeds out most, but not all, of the misses and allows the guitars to fall where they may.
Back in Black – AC/DC (1980)
The true definition of “edgy” to me. It’s not people my age playing songs from this on the jukebox at the bowling alley. It’s teenagers. The message doesn’t need to be put into words, although it was. “Rock and Roll Ain’t Noise Pollution, rock and roll will never die.” Back in Black is the ONLY album I have on vinyl, cassette, CD and yes, my God, I actually had it on 8-track. Thank heavens it didn't cost anything to put it on my iPod and Evo.
Led Zeppelin II – Led Zeppelin (1970)My introduction to FM radio came screaming out of the air from the land of the ice and snow, from the midnight sun where the hot springs blow. With front man Robert Plant’s painted on jeans and Jimmy Page’s painted on smirk, they climbed a stairway to heaven to prove Zeppelin truly was the hammer of the gods to rock and roll. What more can be said except, "Get the Led out..."
In Step – Stevie Ray Vaughan (1989)Stevie who? I’d no clue when a friend presented me with a ticket to a dual concert. Stevie Ray Vaughan first, followed by Gregg Allman on the I’m No Angel tour. By the end of the SRV set, I could be ranked among his fans. SRV is often imitated but there is only one Stevie Ray. The tradgey of his loss is that he'd finally put his life together and had begun to realize the promise of his talent. Only the good die young.
Psycho City – Great White (1992)
Great White is a frequently bypassed band. Marred by tragedy and substance abuse, the band is no more, but to me Psycho City stands as its proudest moment. Big guitar riffs, perfectly executed piano bridges, and raspy vocals begging for love while acting the cock of the walk merge for some hard driving rock music.
Born in the USA – Bruce Springsteen (1984)
No. It wasn't his ass that made Bruce a star (but it helped). Springsteen came of age with Born in the USA. He’s not been this good since. Cult artist or rock superstar, Bruce both lifted up and tore down middle-class America with the songs on this album. If you hadn’t lived it, you at least recognized it, and I bet you can still sing along to every song.
***
And that’s my top ten classic rock albums. I have a few honorable mentions, but since the steamer trunk to that desert island has to hold a lot of sunscreen, I just don’t have room for them tonight.
KC
http://www.kckendricks.com
http://www.twitter.com/kckendricks
September 5, 2014
Beneath Dark Stars by KC Kendricks for #MSS58
September 6, 2014
Welcome to Between the Keys and another My Sexy Saturday! This week MSS is about aliens and the "other worldly" worlds we all love. My met my first shapeshifter in 1969 - Jorth in Moon of Three Rings, who was Krip Vorlund in barsk skin. I was captivated and fascinated.
Creating my very own shapeshifter was more fun than anyone is due. He's sexy, bratty, smart, irreverent and a prince among his people. He's Sundown and he found his perfect mate in Detective Fallon Roxbury.
Here are seven sexy paragraphs from Beneath Dark Stars (book two in the Sundown Saga).
= = = = = =
Sundown belly-flopped his way across the mattress and draped his leg over my thighs as his lips nuzzled below my ear. My hand was trapped beneath his torso, but I managed to work my fingers to his belly button. I almost expected it to vanish, but he maintained the illusion of having one.
“You have taught me much, Fallon.”
“I aim to please.” I wondered what he wanted that he felt the need to soften me up before he asked for it. I wiggled my hand lower until my fingertips grazed his cock. “Just remember you wear this skin for only me, Sundown.”
“I never forget.” He levered up on his elbow to kiss me. I cupped the back of his head with my free hand and licked his warm lips.
Sundown deepened the kiss, moving his lips over mine. His tongue teased mine with its silky heat, coaxing me to meet him in a mock battle for the lead. There was no way for either of us to lose.
I’d promised him a full-body massage, so it surprised me when he kept me pinned to the mattress and kissed his way to my nipples. He rarely topped unless I asked, but I knew he intended to fuck me. The need to have him sink into me, to abandon myself to the fierce pleasure of it at his hands, seized me.
Sundown’s body molded to mine, his shapeshifter skin flowing like some dry liquid against mine, stroking me all over without moving. I struggled to find breath amid the ever-sharper jolts of arousal slamming my system in rapid waves. He surrounded me with whisper soft caresses, which suddenly focused on my stiff cock.
= = = = =
BENEATH DARK STARS is available at Amber Allure, All Romance eBooks and Amazon.
More about Beneath Dark Stars:
Fallon Roxbury, seasoned detective and special police consultant, knows that appearances can be deceiving. Trained to gather the clues and arrive at logical conclusions, he fits the puzzles pieces of a situation together to find the truth. But there’s nothing reasonable in Fallon’s attraction to the sexy, secretive shapeshifter called Sundown.
Sundown has studied people all his life. Having his very own human male is all he ever wanted. In Fallon, he’s found a man he can trust with his secrets and reveal his true nature. Keeping Fallon happy is a joyful exercise Sundown puts his heart and soul into - when he’s not teasing Fallon’s police partner by leaving strange footprints at crime scenes, that is.
Fallon’s new case ties into an old one. At a dead end, he knows it’s time to ask Sundown for a little help. With his special abilities, Sundown can get into places Fallon can’t. All Fallon has to do is figure out a way to prove what he already knows. But what’s a cop to do when the truth takes a shift that’s stranger than fiction?
KC Kendricks
http://www.kckendricks.com
Welcome to Between the Keys and another My Sexy Saturday! This week MSS is about aliens and the "other worldly" worlds we all love. My met my first shapeshifter in 1969 - Jorth in Moon of Three Rings, who was Krip Vorlund in barsk skin. I was captivated and fascinated.
Creating my very own shapeshifter was more fun than anyone is due. He's sexy, bratty, smart, irreverent and a prince among his people. He's Sundown and he found his perfect mate in Detective Fallon Roxbury.
Here are seven sexy paragraphs from Beneath Dark Stars (book two in the Sundown Saga).
= = = = = =
Sundown belly-flopped his way across the mattress and draped his leg over my thighs as his lips nuzzled below my ear. My hand was trapped beneath his torso, but I managed to work my fingers to his belly button. I almost expected it to vanish, but he maintained the illusion of having one.
“You have taught me much, Fallon.”
“I aim to please.” I wondered what he wanted that he felt the need to soften me up before he asked for it. I wiggled my hand lower until my fingertips grazed his cock. “Just remember you wear this skin for only me, Sundown.”
“I never forget.” He levered up on his elbow to kiss me. I cupped the back of his head with my free hand and licked his warm lips.
Sundown deepened the kiss, moving his lips over mine. His tongue teased mine with its silky heat, coaxing me to meet him in a mock battle for the lead. There was no way for either of us to lose.
I’d promised him a full-body massage, so it surprised me when he kept me pinned to the mattress and kissed his way to my nipples. He rarely topped unless I asked, but I knew he intended to fuck me. The need to have him sink into me, to abandon myself to the fierce pleasure of it at his hands, seized me.
Sundown’s body molded to mine, his shapeshifter skin flowing like some dry liquid against mine, stroking me all over without moving. I struggled to find breath amid the ever-sharper jolts of arousal slamming my system in rapid waves. He surrounded me with whisper soft caresses, which suddenly focused on my stiff cock.
= = = = =
BENEATH DARK STARS is available at Amber Allure, All Romance eBooks and Amazon.
More about Beneath Dark Stars:
Fallon Roxbury, seasoned detective and special police consultant, knows that appearances can be deceiving. Trained to gather the clues and arrive at logical conclusions, he fits the puzzles pieces of a situation together to find the truth. But there’s nothing reasonable in Fallon’s attraction to the sexy, secretive shapeshifter called Sundown.
Sundown has studied people all his life. Having his very own human male is all he ever wanted. In Fallon, he’s found a man he can trust with his secrets and reveal his true nature. Keeping Fallon happy is a joyful exercise Sundown puts his heart and soul into - when he’s not teasing Fallon’s police partner by leaving strange footprints at crime scenes, that is.
Fallon’s new case ties into an old one. At a dead end, he knows it’s time to ask Sundown for a little help. With his special abilities, Sundown can get into places Fallon can’t. All Fallon has to do is figure out a way to prove what he already knows. But what’s a cop to do when the truth takes a shift that’s stranger than fiction?
KC Kendricks
http://www.kckendricks.com
September 1, 2014
A Busy September Ahead
September 1, 2014
Happy Labor Day 2014 to all! Thanks to everyone who works hard, even on Labor Day, to keep our country strong.
Quite often September isn't sure if she's coming or going, but we welcome her for what she is as she prepares us for October's splendor.
The end of summer. The beginning of the school year.
The reaping of the harvest. The gathering of seeds for spring.
The falling of leaves. The planting of grass.
The evening chill. The warmth of first fires.
September brings a flurry of activity to my world. There's lots of yard work to be done as the deer stand in the woods and watch. It's time to cut or uproot dying flowers, one by one, as the daylight hours shorten. There's all the downed wood to cut, split and stack. Mother Nature provides us with what's needed to heat the house in cold weather but she doesn't give it for free. We must labor for it.
Our little pool needs to be drained and stored for next year. The hummingbird feeders need to be removed and cleaned in the attempt to hasten the little birds departure south to warmer climes. I've been outside listening for the screech owls to begin calling but nothing yet.
On the writing front, September should bring two new KC releases: Dreams to Sell at Amber Allure, A Perfect Hire at Ellora's Cave. (More about these titles later. Check back.) And while those are coming out, my alter ego will begin the process to self-publish some older titles that have been out of print for several years.
Will this leave me time to actually write? I believe so. With the ousting of the previous CEO, my lot at the day job has improved immeasurably. I find I can function again. It's like a new job at the same desk. Weird and wonderful.
For the first time, I'm taking this week off. Being at my day job for many years, I get a generous amount of vacation time, but with that said I think taking the days after a Monday holiday off helps maximize that benefit. I realize how fortunate I am with paid vacation and I promise I'll make good use of this time and not squander it.
KC
http://www.kckendricks.com
Happy Labor Day 2014 to all! Thanks to everyone who works hard, even on Labor Day, to keep our country strong.
Quite often September isn't sure if she's coming or going, but we welcome her for what she is as she prepares us for October's splendor.
The end of summer. The beginning of the school year.
The reaping of the harvest. The gathering of seeds for spring.
The falling of leaves. The planting of grass.
The evening chill. The warmth of first fires.
September brings a flurry of activity to my world. There's lots of yard work to be done as the deer stand in the woods and watch. It's time to cut or uproot dying flowers, one by one, as the daylight hours shorten. There's all the downed wood to cut, split and stack. Mother Nature provides us with what's needed to heat the house in cold weather but she doesn't give it for free. We must labor for it. Our little pool needs to be drained and stored for next year. The hummingbird feeders need to be removed and cleaned in the attempt to hasten the little birds departure south to warmer climes. I've been outside listening for the screech owls to begin calling but nothing yet.
On the writing front, September should bring two new KC releases: Dreams to Sell at Amber Allure, A Perfect Hire at Ellora's Cave. (More about these titles later. Check back.) And while those are coming out, my alter ego will begin the process to self-publish some older titles that have been out of print for several years. Will this leave me time to actually write? I believe so. With the ousting of the previous CEO, my lot at the day job has improved immeasurably. I find I can function again. It's like a new job at the same desk. Weird and wonderful.
For the first time, I'm taking this week off. Being at my day job for many years, I get a generous amount of vacation time, but with that said I think taking the days after a Monday holiday off helps maximize that benefit. I realize how fortunate I am with paid vacation and I promise I'll make good use of this time and not squander it.
KC
http://www.kckendricks.com
August 22, 2014
Highway Nights by KC Kendricks on this My Sexy Saturday
August 23, 2014
Welcome to my corner of My Sexy Saturday. This week I'm highlighting seven paragraphs from Highway Nights.
With My Sexy Saturday #56, we're talking about love for the ages and that's what happened to Garrett and Oliver. They didn't see it coming in the beginning, but it made the ride more fun.
I hope you enjoy this snip from Highway Nights.
_*_*_*_
“To each his own.”
Garrett grasped Oliver’s hips and yanked him against him. He held him there and soaked up the heat from Oliver’s body. The corner of his mouth quirked in a small smile.
“So, am I going to have to beg you to kiss me again?”
Oliver ran his thumb over Garrett’s lower lip. He swallowed, the muscles in his throat moving. “Garrett, be sure you want this. Don’t lead me on, then tell me to stop.”
“I came for this, Oliver.”
Something dark and unsettled sparked in Oliver’s eyes. “Don’t get too attached to me, either, boy.”
“I’m horny. I want to fuck you, not marry you.”
_*_*_*_
For what it's worth, I saw the photo of cars on the highway at night and it was the inspiration for the story. I was thrilled when the cover artist agreed to use it.
More about Highway Nights:
Garrett Webb has a five-point plan for starting his own business. To keep it on track, he takes a second job and settles into the evening delivery run between Owensville and Mt. Franklin. When a foggy night sends him to the safety of The Downshift Diner and its owner, Oliver Sanderson, that future takes an unforeseen turn.
Good intentions can’t hold out against their budding attraction. Garrett makes the diner a regular stop during his nightly run, and the men get better acquainted. But Garrett’s past isn’t done with him. In a single heart-stopping moment, Garrett is forced to a decision that risks Oliver’s life – one that could forever end their highway nights.
HIGHWAY NIGHTS is available at Amber Allure, All Romance eBooks and other third party vendors.
KC Kendrickshttp://www.kckendricks.com
Welcome to my corner of My Sexy Saturday. This week I'm highlighting seven paragraphs from Highway Nights.
With My Sexy Saturday #56, we're talking about love for the ages and that's what happened to Garrett and Oliver. They didn't see it coming in the beginning, but it made the ride more fun.
I hope you enjoy this snip from Highway Nights.
_*_*_*_
“To each his own.”
Garrett grasped Oliver’s hips and yanked him against him. He held him there and soaked up the heat from Oliver’s body. The corner of his mouth quirked in a small smile.
“So, am I going to have to beg you to kiss me again?”
Oliver ran his thumb over Garrett’s lower lip. He swallowed, the muscles in his throat moving. “Garrett, be sure you want this. Don’t lead me on, then tell me to stop.”
“I came for this, Oliver.”
Something dark and unsettled sparked in Oliver’s eyes. “Don’t get too attached to me, either, boy.”
“I’m horny. I want to fuck you, not marry you.”
_*_*_*_
For what it's worth, I saw the photo of cars on the highway at night and it was the inspiration for the story. I was thrilled when the cover artist agreed to use it.
More about Highway Nights:
Garrett Webb has a five-point plan for starting his own business. To keep it on track, he takes a second job and settles into the evening delivery run between Owensville and Mt. Franklin. When a foggy night sends him to the safety of The Downshift Diner and its owner, Oliver Sanderson, that future takes an unforeseen turn.
Good intentions can’t hold out against their budding attraction. Garrett makes the diner a regular stop during his nightly run, and the men get better acquainted. But Garrett’s past isn’t done with him. In a single heart-stopping moment, Garrett is forced to a decision that risks Oliver’s life – one that could forever end their highway nights.
HIGHWAY NIGHTS is available at Amber Allure, All Romance eBooks and other third party vendors.
KC Kendrickshttp://www.kckendricks.com
August 16, 2014
A Chilly Situation
August 16, 2014
If you're a long-time visitor here at Between the Keys you already know I enjoy living in the woods. I'm very blessed to have three acres of land to call my very own but with that blessing comes a duty of stewardship. I pay attention to the flora and fauna on my patch of paradise. It's not like I can do a lot but clean up the debris if a tree falls in my woods, but I at least am aware it happened.
In the midst of the outcries about global warming we're having a very cool summer here in western Maryland. In my particular realm there is some snickering regarding the political silence on the matter. And you must allow us our snark because, you see, my compatriots and I live a mere ninety or so miles northwest of the hottest air found on the planet, that being the real source of "global warming" - the incessant talking of the Capitol Hill politician. We suffer from something akin to radiation exposure from the gases they expel.
I wonder if they've finally shut the fuck up because it was a mere fifty degrees on the patio this morning.
That I can't drink my first cup of coffee on my patio in the middle of August is virtually unheard of. And I was really looking forward to those fifteen minutes of peace and solitude before I start what will be a Saturday full of activity. Spending quiet time watching my world turn from a dusky grey-green to glowing green-gold as the sun comes up is one of life's simple pleasures. I'm going to miss it this morning and it doesn't please me.
But never mind what I think about this chilly morning. You should ask my cat his opinion. While I at least stepped outside to take a look around, he retreated the moment his little pink paw pads hit the cold concrete. He looked up and me and screeched his unhappiness. I'm not sure what he thinks I can do about it but obviously I'm to come up with a solution. Seriously - does he look happy to you? I'm going to have to deal with His Majesty's displeasure until the mercury hits at least seventy. It's going to take a lot of cat crack, er, Mix-up treats, to fix this.
The first cup of coffee is gone and it's time I find a sweatshirt so I can begin my outside tasks. We're leaving on a day jaunt mid-morning and there are potted flowers to water, a pool filter to change, tomatoes to pick, and hummingbird feeders to replenish before I go, not to mention finding a way to put the cat in a happier frame of mind.
A sweatshirt. In August. It's certainly a chilly situation.
KC
If you're a long-time visitor here at Between the Keys you already know I enjoy living in the woods. I'm very blessed to have three acres of land to call my very own but with that blessing comes a duty of stewardship. I pay attention to the flora and fauna on my patch of paradise. It's not like I can do a lot but clean up the debris if a tree falls in my woods, but I at least am aware it happened.
In the midst of the outcries about global warming we're having a very cool summer here in western Maryland. In my particular realm there is some snickering regarding the political silence on the matter. And you must allow us our snark because, you see, my compatriots and I live a mere ninety or so miles northwest of the hottest air found on the planet, that being the real source of "global warming" - the incessant talking of the Capitol Hill politician. We suffer from something akin to radiation exposure from the gases they expel.
I wonder if they've finally shut the fuck up because it was a mere fifty degrees on the patio this morning.
That I can't drink my first cup of coffee on my patio in the middle of August is virtually unheard of. And I was really looking forward to those fifteen minutes of peace and solitude before I start what will be a Saturday full of activity. Spending quiet time watching my world turn from a dusky grey-green to glowing green-gold as the sun comes up is one of life's simple pleasures. I'm going to miss it this morning and it doesn't please me.
But never mind what I think about this chilly morning. You should ask my cat his opinion. While I at least stepped outside to take a look around, he retreated the moment his little pink paw pads hit the cold concrete. He looked up and me and screeched his unhappiness. I'm not sure what he thinks I can do about it but obviously I'm to come up with a solution. Seriously - does he look happy to you? I'm going to have to deal with His Majesty's displeasure until the mercury hits at least seventy. It's going to take a lot of cat crack, er, Mix-up treats, to fix this. The first cup of coffee is gone and it's time I find a sweatshirt so I can begin my outside tasks. We're leaving on a day jaunt mid-morning and there are potted flowers to water, a pool filter to change, tomatoes to pick, and hummingbird feeders to replenish before I go, not to mention finding a way to put the cat in a happier frame of mind.
A sweatshirt. In August. It's certainly a chilly situation.
KC
August 8, 2014
Tango in the Night by KC Kendricks (#MSS54)
August 9, 2014
Welcome to My Sexy Saturday #54. Hot August is here and it's time to heat up the sheets even more. In my hometown if you talk about the tango in the night you're talking about sex, not a song by a rock group although I do like the song. So here are seven sexy paragraphs from one of my favorite stories (if the author is allowed to admit that), Tango in the Night. Enjoy!
_*_*_*_
Ellis’ gaze locked with mine. I knew that interested look, having been on the receiving end of it often enough in my life. It was nice to know I could still turn a head. He reached out and trailed his fingertips down my arm. “You want some help feeling young again, Jubal?”
I hated to disappoint him. He was a nice looking man, and I couldn’t deny my curiosity about him. But…I rebuffed him as gently as I knew how. “Not with a co-worker, Ellis, even a handsome stud like you.”
Ellis didn’t blink. His chin lifted the slightest bit as those blue eyes saw straight through my act. A warm little glow sparked to life in my belly. I knew by the way he pressed his full, sexy lips together he knew. We stood there staring at each, the air between us sparking with a strange blue lightning. He tried, but he couldn’t keep the corner of his mouth from quirking up in a little smile.
“If you change your mind, Jubal, just say so.”
I nodded. Ellis pushed off from the counter and walked towards the door, the wide vees on the pockets of his jeans showing off his swagger to good advantage. I had one more thing I had to say to him. “Ellis?”
He stopped and turned around. “Yeah?”
“Nice ass.”
_*_*_*_
Here's a bit about Tango in the Night:
Jubal Graham is back on the job after a shooter took the life of his long-time partner, and sent him into a coma followed by months of rehab. Determined to have justice, Jubal is focused on finding a killer, not a new romantic entanglement. Ellis Banks, with his smoldering blue eyes and denim-clad swagger is a distraction Jubal can’t afford – or ignore.
Ellis Banks came to Philadelphia to bust a drug operation; one that connects to the same case agency legend Kentuckian Jubal Graham is working. Ellis finds himself drawn to Jubal, but Jubal holds him off. Sure that Jubal is interested, even though Jubal wears his slain lover’s ring, Ellis mounts a determined siege.
Jubal’s surprise at having a suitor develops into a growing affection for Ellis, one clouded with old fears. Fate ripped one lover from his arms, and now Ellis is in the line of fire. Jubal’s courage can protect Ellis, but is it powerful enough to love him?
KC Kendricks
http://www.kckendricks.com
http://www.twitter.com/kckendricks
http://www.facebook.com/kckendricks
Check out all the My Sexy Saturday blogs using the links below.
Welcome to My Sexy Saturday #54. Hot August is here and it's time to heat up the sheets even more. In my hometown if you talk about the tango in the night you're talking about sex, not a song by a rock group although I do like the song. So here are seven sexy paragraphs from one of my favorite stories (if the author is allowed to admit that), Tango in the Night. Enjoy!
_*_*_*_
Ellis’ gaze locked with mine. I knew that interested look, having been on the receiving end of it often enough in my life. It was nice to know I could still turn a head. He reached out and trailed his fingertips down my arm. “You want some help feeling young again, Jubal?”
I hated to disappoint him. He was a nice looking man, and I couldn’t deny my curiosity about him. But…I rebuffed him as gently as I knew how. “Not with a co-worker, Ellis, even a handsome stud like you.”
Ellis didn’t blink. His chin lifted the slightest bit as those blue eyes saw straight through my act. A warm little glow sparked to life in my belly. I knew by the way he pressed his full, sexy lips together he knew. We stood there staring at each, the air between us sparking with a strange blue lightning. He tried, but he couldn’t keep the corner of his mouth from quirking up in a little smile.
“If you change your mind, Jubal, just say so.”
I nodded. Ellis pushed off from the counter and walked towards the door, the wide vees on the pockets of his jeans showing off his swagger to good advantage. I had one more thing I had to say to him. “Ellis?”
He stopped and turned around. “Yeah?”
“Nice ass.”
_*_*_*_Here's a bit about Tango in the Night:
Jubal Graham is back on the job after a shooter took the life of his long-time partner, and sent him into a coma followed by months of rehab. Determined to have justice, Jubal is focused on finding a killer, not a new romantic entanglement. Ellis Banks, with his smoldering blue eyes and denim-clad swagger is a distraction Jubal can’t afford – or ignore.
Ellis Banks came to Philadelphia to bust a drug operation; one that connects to the same case agency legend Kentuckian Jubal Graham is working. Ellis finds himself drawn to Jubal, but Jubal holds him off. Sure that Jubal is interested, even though Jubal wears his slain lover’s ring, Ellis mounts a determined siege.
Jubal’s surprise at having a suitor develops into a growing affection for Ellis, one clouded with old fears. Fate ripped one lover from his arms, and now Ellis is in the line of fire. Jubal’s courage can protect Ellis, but is it powerful enough to love him?
KC Kendricks
http://www.kckendricks.com
http://www.twitter.com/kckendricks
http://www.facebook.com/kckendricks
Check out all the My Sexy Saturday blogs using the links below.
August 3, 2014
Sundry things for a Sunday
August 3, 2014Yesterday my family gathered and it was good. All the cousins and kids were there except one who had to work and we certainly forgive his absence. Our young widower came and I don't know if we did well by him by not speaking much of his loss but taking our cues from him, we remained silent to allow him peace in our midst. The women had a new baby coming soon to speculate about and the men spent time in the driveway trash talking each other's new rides.
As chance would have it, my honey's family reunion was also yesterday. He joined us for a meal then traveled to his to play poker with his brothers. It's the first time I've missed his family reunion in twenty years but I think I can manage the absence.
On the writing front I finally finished the short story. I started it months ago and it sort of floated in and out of focus as I worked on other projects. Because it features a trio of canines, I started calling it "Lick Me." I'm not at all convinced I should title it that but I'm afraid it's going to stick.
With Lick Me finished (oh, God, it IS going to stick...) it's time to line up the ducks in a neat row. They won't stay there, but I refuse to give up making the attempt to keep things orderly.
Up next is "Ace, Deuce, Trey." Savvy readers will guess correctly that with Deuce in the title it's the third installment in the Ian Coulter's Amethyst Cove series. Ian and Rick's cases overlap when a thief/con artist targets Ian's client.
Sundown, Fallon and Juny have caught a lead on an old cold case. Local history, a crooked politician, a skeleton and a burned body figure into the mix. It could be that the shapeshifting Chal have information dating back to 1850 that can link everything together. Fallon and Juny just have to pry it out of Sundown. It might be easier this time since Sundown is looking for reasons to avoid his tiny doppelganger.
I jumped into a trio of PAXes for next year, too. The first one is about lovers reuniting (a fave theme of almost everyone). The second PAX is called Texas Roundup so you know a cowboy type is going to figure into that one. My story for that one is called "Ride Your Luck." Then I got sideswiped by the third PAX. Three of us authors had our names on this for so long I didn't think it would ever fly but finally two more of the group signed up and the Beachcombers PAX is now a go.
Then there is a story hot off the idea board. I had a different title for this blog and as soon as I typed it in I knew it was perfect for a story. So I changed the blog title to something more mundane.
With all these plot lines, blurbs and character bios to develop, I think it's time to grab a second cup of coffee and a notepad and head for the patio. I really must replace my old laptop (RIP old friend). Maybe the next royalty check can cover a new toy.
May you also enjoy the day doing something you love.
KC
website: http://www.kckendricks.com
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August 1, 2014
Old Buck is family, too
August 1, 2014
It seems to me that August is a strange month. Time slows in August. The days seem to have extra minutes that are stolen from too fast nights. Maybe it's the angle of sun because for a few fleeting days my little sunroom glows golden in those last moments before the sun dips below the treetops. Right on schedule the big tulip poplar has begun its annual shedding of single yellow leaves.
The lightning bugs, or fireflies if you prefer, are disappearing. The occasional cicada sings. The big eight-point buck is hanging out in the quiet of our west woods not seeming to care that we know he is there. This worries us greatly. Old Buck has been around for many years, at least six and maybe seven, and there are two younger bucks trailing him now. It's the way of it but I'll be sad to see him pass. He and I have an understanding. I allow him to eat my flowers and he won't cross the road in front of my car. It smacks of blackmail but I'm okay with it.
Buck doesn't bother my big flower pots, though. I think he's seen me wield the broom at the rabbits.
Tomorrow we'll make our way down the lane to my cousin's house for a family picnic and to remember what makes us family. It's an August theme for a lot of families.
I expect August won't be a very productive month on the writing front. It's time to enjoy the evenings on the patio or in the pool. Western Maryland is known for being hazy, hot and humid in August and slowing down and relaxing is a survival strategy. Who cares the pool is small and not all that deep when the water is ninety-two degrees in August? Not me.
Now it's time to step outside and shoo Buck away from the hosta. I think he's had enough for one day.
KC
It seems to me that August is a strange month. Time slows in August. The days seem to have extra minutes that are stolen from too fast nights. Maybe it's the angle of sun because for a few fleeting days my little sunroom glows golden in those last moments before the sun dips below the treetops. Right on schedule the big tulip poplar has begun its annual shedding of single yellow leaves.
The lightning bugs, or fireflies if you prefer, are disappearing. The occasional cicada sings. The big eight-point buck is hanging out in the quiet of our west woods not seeming to care that we know he is there. This worries us greatly. Old Buck has been around for many years, at least six and maybe seven, and there are two younger bucks trailing him now. It's the way of it but I'll be sad to see him pass. He and I have an understanding. I allow him to eat my flowers and he won't cross the road in front of my car. It smacks of blackmail but I'm okay with it. Buck doesn't bother my big flower pots, though. I think he's seen me wield the broom at the rabbits.
Tomorrow we'll make our way down the lane to my cousin's house for a family picnic and to remember what makes us family. It's an August theme for a lot of families.
I expect August won't be a very productive month on the writing front. It's time to enjoy the evenings on the patio or in the pool. Western Maryland is known for being hazy, hot and humid in August and slowing down and relaxing is a survival strategy. Who cares the pool is small and not all that deep when the water is ninety-two degrees in August? Not me.
Now it's time to step outside and shoo Buck away from the hosta. I think he's had enough for one day.
KC
July 27, 2014
Cover reveal - Dreams to Sell
July 27, 2014
It's the last Sunday in July and I'm hitting and running with a quick cover reveal.
Dreams to Sell - book eight in the Men of Marionville series. Look for it in August.
Keith Mitchell needs a new challenge in his life. When an old friend pitches him a business proposition he agrees to pull up stakes and more to Marionville. Keith decides his new house will be in the style he’s always dreamed of having even if he will live in it alone.
Realtor Terry Thomas has one goal in mind for his clients: find and sell them the house of their dreams. Recently widowed, Terry’s not in the market for companionship, or so he believes. His latest client is handsome, interesting and his age, but is he really ready to love again?
Keith becomes an eager suitor, waging a persistent siege until Terry gives into temptation. When Terry finds the right house for him, Keith redoubles his efforts to win Terry’s heart. After all, what good is a the perfect house if the man of your dreams doesn’t share it with you?
KC
It's the last Sunday in July and I'm hitting and running with a quick cover reveal.
Dreams to Sell - book eight in the Men of Marionville series. Look for it in August.
Keith Mitchell needs a new challenge in his life. When an old friend pitches him a business proposition he agrees to pull up stakes and more to Marionville. Keith decides his new house will be in the style he’s always dreamed of having even if he will live in it alone.
Realtor Terry Thomas has one goal in mind for his clients: find and sell them the house of their dreams. Recently widowed, Terry’s not in the market for companionship, or so he believes. His latest client is handsome, interesting and his age, but is he really ready to love again?
Keith becomes an eager suitor, waging a persistent siege until Terry gives into temptation. When Terry finds the right house for him, Keith redoubles his efforts to win Terry’s heart. After all, what good is a the perfect house if the man of your dreams doesn’t share it with you?
KC
July 25, 2014
Kentucky 98 Proof on #MSS52
July 26, 2014
Welcome to another My Sexy Saturday blog hop. This one comes with a big congrats to My Sexy Saturday for being week fifty-two. That's right. The blog hop turns 1-year old today. That's a lot of blogs and a lot of hopping.
Today at Between the Keys we're highlighting a first kiss with seven sexy paragraphs from the best seller Kentucky 98 Proof. Enjoy!
*_*_*_*
“Why don’t you pick me up and show me the way to Ridgemont?”
Boone snorted. “I thought you’d see it my way.”
Vic grinned and it was like sunshine lighting the room. So what if he was on duty? He closed the distance between them and cupped the back of Vic’s neck, burying his fingers in Vic’s soft hair. Vic’s smile faded into a serious look.
“What do you want, Sheriff?”
Boone managed to swallow but it didn’t ease his dry throat. “Just this for now.” He leaned forward and pressed his lips to Vic’s. Surprise rippled through him as Vic gripped his hips.
The touch spurred Boone on and sent his heart rate soaring. His dick hardened again in a wonderful rush as arousal shot hotly through his groin. He laved Vic’s lips with his tongue, stroking and licking, enticing him to open and let him in. Vic’s lips parted and Boone seized the advantage, thrusting his tongue into Vic’s hot mouth. A startled awareness arced between them as the heat grew in Boone’s belly, torturing him with each burning stroke of Vic’s silky tongue over his. He pulled Vic closer, needing to know if he was as hard. Vic jerked away and stared at him with dazed, dark eyes.
Vic’s emotions flashed across his face. Longing. Arousal. Panic. Aching desperation. It was all there for Boone to see. He did the one thing he didn’t want to do and let his hands fall away.
*_*_*_*
Kentucky 98 Proof
contemporary m/m romance available at Amber Allure
http://www.amberquill.com/store/p/1826-Kentucky-98-Proof.aspx
About Kentucky 98 Proof:
Victor Carter knows his grandfather only from a handful of black and white photographs, so his surprise when the man’s will is read is genuine. What’s he going to do with seventy acres on the side of a Kentucky mountain? More importantly, how’s he going to survive living there for a year to satisfy the conditions of the will so he can sell the property? Even worse, it’s not like the hills of Kentucky are teeming with gay companionship.
Boone Mosely is Kentucky born and bred with a proud family heritage he can trace back to his home state’s founding. Following in his uncle’s footsteps, Boone’s in his second term as sheriff of Four Points. He takes the job seriously and doesn’t suffer fools - or crime - in his town.
When city slicker Victor Carter arrives on Shepherd Mountain, Boone knows he’s got a whole new brand of trouble to deal with. And this time, the badge isn’t going to help him at all.
KC Kendricks
website
twitter
Welcome to another My Sexy Saturday blog hop. This one comes with a big congrats to My Sexy Saturday for being week fifty-two. That's right. The blog hop turns 1-year old today. That's a lot of blogs and a lot of hopping.
Today at Between the Keys we're highlighting a first kiss with seven sexy paragraphs from the best seller Kentucky 98 Proof. Enjoy!
*_*_*_*
“Why don’t you pick me up and show me the way to Ridgemont?”
Boone snorted. “I thought you’d see it my way.”
Vic grinned and it was like sunshine lighting the room. So what if he was on duty? He closed the distance between them and cupped the back of Vic’s neck, burying his fingers in Vic’s soft hair. Vic’s smile faded into a serious look.
“What do you want, Sheriff?”
Boone managed to swallow but it didn’t ease his dry throat. “Just this for now.” He leaned forward and pressed his lips to Vic’s. Surprise rippled through him as Vic gripped his hips.
The touch spurred Boone on and sent his heart rate soaring. His dick hardened again in a wonderful rush as arousal shot hotly through his groin. He laved Vic’s lips with his tongue, stroking and licking, enticing him to open and let him in. Vic’s lips parted and Boone seized the advantage, thrusting his tongue into Vic’s hot mouth. A startled awareness arced between them as the heat grew in Boone’s belly, torturing him with each burning stroke of Vic’s silky tongue over his. He pulled Vic closer, needing to know if he was as hard. Vic jerked away and stared at him with dazed, dark eyes.
Vic’s emotions flashed across his face. Longing. Arousal. Panic. Aching desperation. It was all there for Boone to see. He did the one thing he didn’t want to do and let his hands fall away.
*_*_*_*
Kentucky 98 Proof
contemporary m/m romance available at Amber Allure
http://www.amberquill.com/store/p/1826-Kentucky-98-Proof.aspx
About Kentucky 98 Proof:
Victor Carter knows his grandfather only from a handful of black and white photographs, so his surprise when the man’s will is read is genuine. What’s he going to do with seventy acres on the side of a Kentucky mountain? More importantly, how’s he going to survive living there for a year to satisfy the conditions of the will so he can sell the property? Even worse, it’s not like the hills of Kentucky are teeming with gay companionship.
Boone Mosely is Kentucky born and bred with a proud family heritage he can trace back to his home state’s founding. Following in his uncle’s footsteps, Boone’s in his second term as sheriff of Four Points. He takes the job seriously and doesn’t suffer fools - or crime - in his town.
When city slicker Victor Carter arrives on Shepherd Mountain, Boone knows he’s got a whole new brand of trouble to deal with. And this time, the badge isn’t going to help him at all.
KC Kendricks
website
