Eden Winters's Blog, page 69
March 8, 2012
A Chance to Win a Copy of Diversion
Just ten more days until Diversion debuts on Sunday, March 18, and you know what that means. A giveaway contest at Stumbling Over Chaos!
***
Drug dealers aren't always on the streets; sometimes they sit in offices and boardrooms, selling merchandise in official-looking bottles instead of little cellophane bags...
When given a choice between eight more years in prison or using his "expertise" to assist the Southeastern Narcotics Bureau's Department of Diversion Prevention and Control, convicted drug trafficker Richmond "Lucky" Lucklighter takes the sentence with the illusion of freedom. Cynical and unwilling to admit he's begun to care about his job, he counts the days until his debt is paid. His sole obstacle to getting his life back is the rookie he's assigned to train before he leaves—a rookie who quotes pharmacy texts, hasn't paid his dues, and has the obnoxious tendency of seeing the good in everyone, including the target of their investigation.
Former Marine Bo Schollenberger dreamed of becoming a pharmacist, but watched the dream turn into a nightmare of PTSD-fueled prescription drug abuse. Battling his demons daily, he wakes up every morning, wondering, "Will this be the day I give in?" To keep his license, he must now put his skills to use for a diversion control task force, deal with a crude partner with too much attitude and no brain-to-mouth filter, and take down a drug lord who reminds him of his favorite cooking show hostess.
The bad guys don't stand a chance—if Lucky and Bo don't strangle each other first...
Find Diversion's coming soon page here at Amber Allure:
Here's the link to the rules and contest at Stumbling Over Chaos: Do forget to check out the linkety, lovely pics of the adorable Chaos and Mayhem, and Misadventures in Stock Photography while you're there. Thanks to Chris for hosting this contest.
***
Drug dealers aren't always on the streets; sometimes they sit in offices and boardrooms, selling merchandise in official-looking bottles instead of little cellophane bags...
When given a choice between eight more years in prison or using his "expertise" to assist the Southeastern Narcotics Bureau's Department of Diversion Prevention and Control, convicted drug trafficker Richmond "Lucky" Lucklighter takes the sentence with the illusion of freedom. Cynical and unwilling to admit he's begun to care about his job, he counts the days until his debt is paid. His sole obstacle to getting his life back is the rookie he's assigned to train before he leaves—a rookie who quotes pharmacy texts, hasn't paid his dues, and has the obnoxious tendency of seeing the good in everyone, including the target of their investigation.
Former Marine Bo Schollenberger dreamed of becoming a pharmacist, but watched the dream turn into a nightmare of PTSD-fueled prescription drug abuse. Battling his demons daily, he wakes up every morning, wondering, "Will this be the day I give in?" To keep his license, he must now put his skills to use for a diversion control task force, deal with a crude partner with too much attitude and no brain-to-mouth filter, and take down a drug lord who reminds him of his favorite cooking show hostess.
The bad guys don't stand a chance—if Lucky and Bo don't strangle each other first...
Find Diversion's coming soon page here at Amber Allure:
Here's the link to the rules and contest at Stumbling Over Chaos: Do forget to check out the linkety, lovely pics of the adorable Chaos and Mayhem, and Misadventures in Stock Photography while you're there. Thanks to Chris for hosting this contest.
March 6, 2012
A Day in the Life of My GayRomLit Swag
I've heard the question asked a few times, "What did folks do with the GayRomLit swag they got in Nola? Are they using it?" Well, I don't know about everyone else, but I sure do! And I chuckle when people ask, "Where did you get that?" So here's a little play by play of the swag in my life on an average Saturday. Oh, how did I live without it?
I stagger to the kitchen in my Belinda McBride Black/Bleu T-shirt and pour hot, strong brew into my Uncommon Whore mug. While adding creamer I straighten my T.A. Chase Pestilence refrigerator magnet. Back in the bedroom I try to decide what to wear today, but the danged lightbulb in the closet blew out. No problem. I'll just grab my handy-dandy, P.D. Singer keychain flashlight.
When I lay my flashlight down on the dresser, I barely miss the pile of trading cards that I've been meaning to buy a book to put them in. Poor lonely Jake and Griff. I need to remember to ask P.D. and Damon Suede for Kurt and Dante cards. Never fear. I'll just make a note in my Dreamspinner day planner, grabbing a pen from a jar on the dresser. Let's see, which pen should I use? Will it be Devon Rhodes' or Carol Lynne's?
My lips are feeling a little dry, so I dab on some Missy Welsh lip balm. I'm going to the gym today, so can't forget my T.A. Chase War water bottle. It's purdy. I toss it into my William Neale "Hot and Steamy" bag, and out the door I go! I get stuck in traffic, but I don't fret. I take out my frustrations on my Trini Lane stress heart.
Hmmm.... Which book is going in with me? Will it be Kissing Sherlock Holmes by T.D. McKinney and Terry Wylis, or Life Of Something Scary Like That by T.C. Blue?
To keep my water bottle from getting damp and slippery, I slide it into a Rainbow Ebooks coosey. I throw my keys into the gym locker, smiling a little at the Joyee Flynn "Pecker Checker" dangling from the ring.
After my workout, while in line at the bank, I dig through my purse for my Ethan Day pen, scribbling a few notes on my Eden Winters post-it pad.
Whew! What a day! Back at home I relax, placing my frosty drink on my Carol Lynne/T.A. Chase Anarchy in Blood coaster. Now to blog about my day, my mouse skating over my Eden Winters The Angel of 13th Street/Settling the Score mouse pad. Hey! I thought I gave all those away! I cut my blogging short because I have a Jonathan Treadway flashdrive full of free reads.
Hmmm.... I wonder what kind of haul I'll bring home from Albuquerque. Should I take an extra suitcase?
***
Note: This list is by no means all the swag I got, but I don't want this post to be too long. Let's just say I made out like a bandit. And yes, I definitely use these promos and am collecting the trading cards.
I stagger to the kitchen in my Belinda McBride Black/Bleu T-shirt and pour hot, strong brew into my Uncommon Whore mug. While adding creamer I straighten my T.A. Chase Pestilence refrigerator magnet. Back in the bedroom I try to decide what to wear today, but the danged lightbulb in the closet blew out. No problem. I'll just grab my handy-dandy, P.D. Singer keychain flashlight.
When I lay my flashlight down on the dresser, I barely miss the pile of trading cards that I've been meaning to buy a book to put them in. Poor lonely Jake and Griff. I need to remember to ask P.D. and Damon Suede for Kurt and Dante cards. Never fear. I'll just make a note in my Dreamspinner day planner, grabbing a pen from a jar on the dresser. Let's see, which pen should I use? Will it be Devon Rhodes' or Carol Lynne's?
My lips are feeling a little dry, so I dab on some Missy Welsh lip balm. I'm going to the gym today, so can't forget my T.A. Chase War water bottle. It's purdy. I toss it into my William Neale "Hot and Steamy" bag, and out the door I go! I get stuck in traffic, but I don't fret. I take out my frustrations on my Trini Lane stress heart.
Hmmm.... Which book is going in with me? Will it be Kissing Sherlock Holmes by T.D. McKinney and Terry Wylis, or Life Of Something Scary Like That by T.C. Blue?
To keep my water bottle from getting damp and slippery, I slide it into a Rainbow Ebooks coosey. I throw my keys into the gym locker, smiling a little at the Joyee Flynn "Pecker Checker" dangling from the ring.
After my workout, while in line at the bank, I dig through my purse for my Ethan Day pen, scribbling a few notes on my Eden Winters post-it pad.
Whew! What a day! Back at home I relax, placing my frosty drink on my Carol Lynne/T.A. Chase Anarchy in Blood coaster. Now to blog about my day, my mouse skating over my Eden Winters The Angel of 13th Street/Settling the Score mouse pad. Hey! I thought I gave all those away! I cut my blogging short because I have a Jonathan Treadway flashdrive full of free reads.
Hmmm.... I wonder what kind of haul I'll bring home from Albuquerque. Should I take an extra suitcase?
***
Note: This list is by no means all the swag I got, but I don't want this post to be too long. Let's just say I made out like a bandit. And yes, I definitely use these promos and am collecting the trading cards.
March 5, 2012
Soundtrack for Diversion, Part 3
As part of Lucky's "torture the newby" strategy, he often belts out (off-key and at offensive decibels) the chorus of Cyndi Lauper's big hit, "She Bop" -- especially when his asshole facade slips and he's suddenly uncertain where he stands.
I personally love this song with it's catchy tune. It's also a great rebellion anthem, 'cause, yes young-uns, the lyrics are subtley dirty.
I was once priveledged to see Ms. Lauper in concert and she puts on an amazing show. Sadly, this link makes you go to YouTube to hear the song.
I personally love this song with it's catchy tune. It's also a great rebellion anthem, 'cause, yes young-uns, the lyrics are subtley dirty.
I was once priveledged to see Ms. Lauper in concert and she puts on an amazing show. Sadly, this link makes you go to YouTube to hear the song.
Soundtrack for Diversion, Part 2
In Diversion, ex-con Lucky takes great pleasure in plotting ways to torment his collegues on the drug diversion task force. One of his favorite methods involves his iPod's "Crazy" playlist -- as in, "Songs to drive coworkers crazy." Holding his passengers captive to his can't-carry-a-tune-in-a-bucket wailing, he tortures them during stakeouts by being "the worst backup singer Billy Ray Cyrus ever had."
Here's a little blast from the past, Billy Ray Cyrus singing "Achy Breaky Heart." And yes, Mr. Cyrus sings it a whole lot better than Lucky does.
Here's a little blast from the past, Billy Ray Cyrus singing "Achy Breaky Heart." And yes, Mr. Cyrus sings it a whole lot better than Lucky does.
March 3, 2012
Big Sale at JMS Books
Re-posted by permission:
So if you have The Pirate's Gamble or any other JMS stories on your wish list, now would be a good time to buy. 40% off!
Hi everyone,
Next week is "Read an E-Book Week" and we're hosting a HUGE sale on our sites at jms-books.com and queerteen-press.com. All e-books are 40% off starting today and running through next Saturday!
Feel free to promote this on your websites, blogs, groups, and fan pages.
This sale applies to e-books only.
J.M. Snyder
http://www.jms-books.com
So if you have The Pirate's Gamble or any other JMS stories on your wish list, now would be a good time to buy. 40% off!
New Cover for Same Time Next Year
My short story Same Time Next Year is all set for re-release with JMS Books sometime in April, but I've already received the awesome cover. What do you think?
Jerome and Greg played onthe dirt road halfway between their homes when they were kids, and found muchbetter games to play there when they grew older. It's their special spot, theperfect place for Greg to propose, and the worst place possible for theaccident that takes his life.
Devastated by the loss, Jerome visits that lonelyroad on the anniversary of Greg's death, only to discover that not all endingsare permanent.
***
Here's a snippet:
One year. One whole year had come and gone and still the pain lingered. With no particular destination in mind, Jerome ambled down the road. His fellow partiers thought he was going to his parents' house, where he was staying the weekend, but what he really needed was a place where the memories couldn't find him. Did such a place exist?
He found himself at the familiar crossroads. Go straight and wind up at his parents', or turn left and go downtown, maybe find a bar and a bit of company. He could always turn around, go back to the party and just crash at Shelby's, which probably wouldn't be a bad idea. Or he could turn right. Three roads offered safety, comfort, and hope. The fourth? Nothing but despair.
Drawn by some unseen force, he turned right. One foot followed the other down a lonely road -- the road that used to lead to Greg's house. Leaving the street lights behind, Jerome squinted into the darkness, barely making out the shapes of trees. The wind, quiet until now, played a mournful tune through the topmost branches, and a light drizzle began to fall. Jerome looked back over his shoulder. The rain didn't reach the well-lit intersection, just this road. Were the fates trying to turn him back?
Cool mist brushed his face but he wouldn't be deterred. Next, the heavens sent fog, thick and heavy, nearly blinding. He followed the white line at the edge of the road, the only thing visible in the gloom. The sound of an engine gearing down caused him to turn, jumping away from the asphalt in case the driver couldn't see him. How odd that in the black of night there were no headlights shining. The motor revved, closer this time. The mist parted and the shadowy shape of a sports car appeared.
A fist clenched Jerome's heart and he shook his head, willing himself sober. It couldn't be! It just couldn't! The car purred like some sleek, black predator waiting for him to run so it could give chase. The passenger door swung open.
A joke. That's what it had to be. A cruel, sick joke.
Jerome stared at the door for what felt like an eternity. The rain fell harder. When it began to trickle under his collar, curiosity got the better of him. One slow step at a time he approached, gazing into the darkened interior. Just like outside the vehicle, inside there were no lights, not even on the instrument panel. When he placed his hand on the car's canvas top, a jolt traveled up his arm, and he swore the damned thing leaned into his touch.
No words were said, none were needed. The invitation was clear. He sucked in a cool, deep breath and exhaled slowly, fogged breath mingling with the chilly mist. He stooped and slid into the car. The door closed without his help. The Mustang accelerated, barely crawling down a side road. Something swung from the rearview mirror. Even without seeing it clearly Jerome knew it was the tassel from a graduation cap. There was no other explanation; he must be hallucinating. How much had he drunk?
When the car came to a full stop, Jerome spoke. This was their spot, where they'd come every Saturday night throughout high school to make out, and where they'd spent their last night together. "I'd like to see you." The instrument lights began to glow, creating a surreal landscape of shadows and light on the driver's face. Dear Lord. There was no way it could be who it looked like. Could there?
A husky, well-remembered voice drawled, "How have you been?"
Find it here as "Coming Soon."
Jerome and Greg played onthe dirt road halfway between their homes when they were kids, and found muchbetter games to play there when they grew older. It's their special spot, theperfect place for Greg to propose, and the worst place possible for theaccident that takes his life.
Devastated by the loss, Jerome visits that lonelyroad on the anniversary of Greg's death, only to discover that not all endingsare permanent.
***
Here's a snippet:
One year. One whole year had come and gone and still the pain lingered. With no particular destination in mind, Jerome ambled down the road. His fellow partiers thought he was going to his parents' house, where he was staying the weekend, but what he really needed was a place where the memories couldn't find him. Did such a place exist?
He found himself at the familiar crossroads. Go straight and wind up at his parents', or turn left and go downtown, maybe find a bar and a bit of company. He could always turn around, go back to the party and just crash at Shelby's, which probably wouldn't be a bad idea. Or he could turn right. Three roads offered safety, comfort, and hope. The fourth? Nothing but despair.
Drawn by some unseen force, he turned right. One foot followed the other down a lonely road -- the road that used to lead to Greg's house. Leaving the street lights behind, Jerome squinted into the darkness, barely making out the shapes of trees. The wind, quiet until now, played a mournful tune through the topmost branches, and a light drizzle began to fall. Jerome looked back over his shoulder. The rain didn't reach the well-lit intersection, just this road. Were the fates trying to turn him back?
Cool mist brushed his face but he wouldn't be deterred. Next, the heavens sent fog, thick and heavy, nearly blinding. He followed the white line at the edge of the road, the only thing visible in the gloom. The sound of an engine gearing down caused him to turn, jumping away from the asphalt in case the driver couldn't see him. How odd that in the black of night there were no headlights shining. The motor revved, closer this time. The mist parted and the shadowy shape of a sports car appeared.
A fist clenched Jerome's heart and he shook his head, willing himself sober. It couldn't be! It just couldn't! The car purred like some sleek, black predator waiting for him to run so it could give chase. The passenger door swung open.
A joke. That's what it had to be. A cruel, sick joke.
Jerome stared at the door for what felt like an eternity. The rain fell harder. When it began to trickle under his collar, curiosity got the better of him. One slow step at a time he approached, gazing into the darkened interior. Just like outside the vehicle, inside there were no lights, not even on the instrument panel. When he placed his hand on the car's canvas top, a jolt traveled up his arm, and he swore the damned thing leaned into his touch.
No words were said, none were needed. The invitation was clear. He sucked in a cool, deep breath and exhaled slowly, fogged breath mingling with the chilly mist. He stooped and slid into the car. The door closed without his help. The Mustang accelerated, barely crawling down a side road. Something swung from the rearview mirror. Even without seeing it clearly Jerome knew it was the tassel from a graduation cap. There was no other explanation; he must be hallucinating. How much had he drunk?
When the car came to a full stop, Jerome spoke. This was their spot, where they'd come every Saturday night throughout high school to make out, and where they'd spent their last night together. "I'd like to see you." The instrument lights began to glow, creating a surreal landscape of shadows and light on the driver's face. Dear Lord. There was no way it could be who it looked like. Could there?
A husky, well-remembered voice drawled, "How have you been?"
Find it here as "Coming Soon."
Happy Birthday, P.D. Singer!
Yesterday was my good friend P.D. Singer's birthday, but sadly, I had computer issues that wouldn't let me post. So I'm a day late, but would like to wish Pam a belated Happy Birthday. Instead of a card, I'd also like the post the drool-worthy cover of her latest novel, due out at the end of March.
Happy Birthday, Pam!
Look for The Rare Event from Dreamspinner Press on March 30!
Happy Birthday, Pam!
Look for The Rare Event from Dreamspinner Press on March 30!
February 27, 2012
Diversion - Sneak Peek!
With less than three weeks before publication day, I thought I'd share a sneak peek at Bo and Lucky, the heroes of my upcoming novel, Diversion, in which they find a way to mix a little pleasure in with work. Warning: Adult material and non work-safe, so please visit my site to read by clicking the "View more on Eden Winters' website" link below. "
Check out Diversion on Amber Quill Press' "Coming Soon" page, part of their Amber Allure imprint.
February 25, 2012
Diversion has a Cover!
What a lovely thing to find first thing in the morning. The talented Trace Edward Zaber of Amber Quill Press sent me the cover of Diversion, due out March 18. What do ya'll think?
February 21, 2012
Fallen Angel Tentative Pub Date!
I recieved a tenative publication date for Fallen Angel, the sequel to The Angel of 13th Street. Drum roll, please! Look for Noah, Jeremy, Doc, and the rest of the gang on May 9 from Torquere Press!
