Jill C. Nelson's Blog, page 4
May 25, 2013
Hustler Magazine: "LEGENDARY LAYS"

Top Row, L-R: Kelly Nichols, Annie Sprinkle, Nina Hartley
Sharon Mitchell, Author Jill Nelson
Bottom Row, L-R: Veronica Hart, Laurie Holmes, Ginger Lynn,
Amber Lynn, Serena
(Historian William Margold is pictured in behind Jill Nelson
holding up a copy of the book.)Newsflash! The August 2013 edition of Hustler Magazine is available on newsstands now! On page 14, under the Bits & Pieces section of the magazine titled "Legendary Lays" is this great photo by J.R. Reynolds, in addition to a blurb about the book and the Hollywood launch last November:
Excerpted from the short article is the following:
"Jill Nelson's book Golden Goddesses: 25 Legendary Women of Classic Erotic Cinema is a great gift for nostalgic poon-hounds who lived through the glory days of porn... A bevy of the performers featured in Golden Goddesses recently gathered for a book-signing event, resulting in this awesome group photo seen here... Golden Goddesses can be purchased at BearManorMedia.com and all major online retailers." Nice! Check it out!
Published on May 25, 2013 07:13
May 21, 2013
Golden Goddesses Review: Hamilton Magazine

"Inspired by interviews she conducted while co-writing John Holmes: A Life Measured in Inches, local author Jill C. Nelson returns to the golden era of erotic cinema in her new book, Golden Goddesses. At nearly 1000 pages in length, and featuring more than 300 photographs, Golden Goddesses takes no shortcuts, profiling 25 actresses who risked it all during a time when participating in adult productions was illegal. Each of Nelson's profiles is meticulous, the result of immeasurable research and the trust and friendship she built with her often reluctant subjects."
For those living locally, I encourage you to check out the latest issue of Hamilton Magazine, a cutting edge publication with attitude and style.
Published on May 21, 2013 09:29
May 17, 2013
Hamilton Magazine, Amber Lynn, & Hamilton Life!
After wrapping up a terrific event at Chapters Book store last Friday evening, I'm happy to announce the three following news items:
*The new issue of Hamilton Magazine is now available and on stands! I am honoured that Golden Goddesses is featured in the 'On the Shelf' section in a capsule review -- one of three of the magazine's mini-book reviews of works by Canadian authors.
I'd like to personally thank editor, Marc Skulnick, for his keen interest in "Goddesses" and also in the John Holmes story. Marc took the time from his chaotic schedule a couple of months ago to invite me to his office to discuss both books. Thanks also to Jessica Rose for penning the review!
*This evening at 5:00pm Pacific time, I am excited to announce that I will be Amber Lynn's guest on her new radio show at PornStarRadio for thirty minutes. Lynn hosts her show every Friday between 4-6 PM PSTon XXXPORNSTARRADIO.com
Please feel free to call in to talk or ask questions @ 347 989-8838
Thanks to Amber Lynn for extending the invitation!
*On Monday May 21st, I will be taping a half hour segment for the local television program, Hamilton Life, on Cable 14. Host Linda Rourke and I will discuss Golden Goddesses during our chat and touch on many of the ladies in the book. Details on the air date will follow.

I'd like to personally thank editor, Marc Skulnick, for his keen interest in "Goddesses" and also in the John Holmes story. Marc took the time from his chaotic schedule a couple of months ago to invite me to his office to discuss both books. Thanks also to Jessica Rose for penning the review!

Please feel free to call in to talk or ask questions @ 347 989-8838
Thanks to Amber Lynn for extending the invitation!
*On Monday May 21st, I will be taping a half hour segment for the local television program, Hamilton Life, on Cable 14. Host Linda Rourke and I will discuss Golden Goddesses during our chat and touch on many of the ladies in the book. Details on the air date will follow.
Published on May 17, 2013 09:35
May 14, 2013
May 10th & Weekend Recap!

With a capacity crowd for our limited space inside the store, the evening consisted of a brief introduction of the conception of Golden Goddesses, readings, a very fun and engaging Q&A, followed by a reception during the signing. Our long time friend and right arm, Ron Parry, did a great job filming the presentation and also snapped photos (to be posted in the near future).
I would also like to thank my beautiful niece, Lindy (and her mother-in-law, Barb, for providing the gluten-free chocolate cakes), for baking the most delicious cupcakes I've ever tasted, all decked out in pink and purple icing for the ladies in the room. Afterwards, a few friends and family joined us back at the house to relax with beverages where the intimate group had an opportunity to chat with Laurie and get caught up with one another. Definitely an extraordinary night! We couldn't have pulled it off without my amazing husband and best friend, Hud. (Thanks for ensuring that there were plenty of chairs at the store in addition to the other details you took care of! You should be their official events coordinator.) Love you. xo

We weren't so lucky in the weather department that day, but it didn't deter us from BBQ-ing (we ate inside) a few steaks, with our son Corey joining us for dinner. (A very gracious gesture on Corey's part considering there was a very significant Leafs game on that night!) A dark chocolate cake was served for the birthday girl, Laurie, a few days ahead of her landmark day tomorrow on May 15th. (You certainly wouldn't know it.) It was a whirlwind weekend but one that we won't soon forget. You are sparkling friend with a good heart, Ms. Laurie Rose Holmes. ♥
Published on May 14, 2013 07:20
May 9, 2013
Golden Goddesses Author at Book Store -- The Burlington Post
Golden Goddesses author at book store[image error]Golden Goddesses author at book store. Jill Nelson Burlington author Jill Nelson admits she has an ulterior motive in writing Golden Goddesses.
It is as much a biography of 25 women who worked in the adult film industry during its so-called golden era, as it is a history lesson about their contributions to the sexual revolution of the time.
“They were all forerunners who couldn’t take credit for blazing a trail,” said Nelson.
Golden Goddesses: 25 Legendary Women of Classic Erotic Cinema, 1968-1985 profiles women who wrote, acted, directed and produced such films when it was illegal to make them, but not watch them.
Nelson gives the back-stories to famous names of erotic film, such as Marilyn Chambers, Nina Hartley and Amber Lynn.
“The goddesses wanted to talk about their careers and who they are as people, starting with their childhood mentors, hobbies, teen years and integrating into society afterward — how tough it was to adapt to mainstream life and having to keep their adult film careers a secret,” said Nelson who was in her teens during this era.
Three of the 25 women started their careers in the industry well into their 30s and 40s, something you wouldn’t hear of today, said Nelson. And they came from previous professions such as mainstream film production, copy writing and teaching.
“My intention is to escort readers toward a clearer understanding of the beautiful and intrepid females who favoured an alternative profession in adult cinema that was cultivated at the apex of the 1960s sexual revolution,” Nelson said.
It was considered a golden era for the layered scripts, high-calibre performances and artful direction that built a loyal following and often culminated in red carpet premieres.
“Several individuals, and particularly women who began working in loops and sexually-oriented films, became legitimate silver screen stars,” Nelson said.
The Aldershot writer wants readers to stop believing the hype that all of those women who got into the porn industry did so because they were abused in childhood and then by the industry later in life. Nelson wants to give these women credit for the cultural shifts they helped move.
The erotic film industry became legal in 1988 through the landmark California court case of porn film director and producer Harold Freeman.
“It was sheer hypocrisy to deem the craft illegal because those who condemned it also watched it,” said Nelson.
She got the idea to interview the women of adult films while working on her first biography about celebrated, then tortured porn star John Holmes. That biography was four years in the making and Goddesses was a 3-1/2 year effort to research and interview all of the women, as well as film historian William Margold; and in gathering the 300 photos contained in the 950-page book. The book also includes 125 film reviews.
“Their common denominator is their strength. I would go into a foxhole with any of these women,” said the married mother of two grown children.
While Nelson launched Golden Goddesses in California late last year, she is making a stop at the Chapters bookstore, on Fairview Street, tomorrow (Friday) starting at 7 p.m., accompanied by one of the goddesses.
Article by Melanie Cummings
It is as much a biography of 25 women who worked in the adult film industry during its so-called golden era, as it is a history lesson about their contributions to the sexual revolution of the time.
“They were all forerunners who couldn’t take credit for blazing a trail,” said Nelson.
Golden Goddesses: 25 Legendary Women of Classic Erotic Cinema, 1968-1985 profiles women who wrote, acted, directed and produced such films when it was illegal to make them, but not watch them.
Nelson gives the back-stories to famous names of erotic film, such as Marilyn Chambers, Nina Hartley and Amber Lynn.
“The goddesses wanted to talk about their careers and who they are as people, starting with their childhood mentors, hobbies, teen years and integrating into society afterward — how tough it was to adapt to mainstream life and having to keep their adult film careers a secret,” said Nelson who was in her teens during this era.
Three of the 25 women started their careers in the industry well into their 30s and 40s, something you wouldn’t hear of today, said Nelson. And they came from previous professions such as mainstream film production, copy writing and teaching.
“My intention is to escort readers toward a clearer understanding of the beautiful and intrepid females who favoured an alternative profession in adult cinema that was cultivated at the apex of the 1960s sexual revolution,” Nelson said.
It was considered a golden era for the layered scripts, high-calibre performances and artful direction that built a loyal following and often culminated in red carpet premieres.
“Several individuals, and particularly women who began working in loops and sexually-oriented films, became legitimate silver screen stars,” Nelson said.
The Aldershot writer wants readers to stop believing the hype that all of those women who got into the porn industry did so because they were abused in childhood and then by the industry later in life. Nelson wants to give these women credit for the cultural shifts they helped move.
The erotic film industry became legal in 1988 through the landmark California court case of porn film director and producer Harold Freeman.
“It was sheer hypocrisy to deem the craft illegal because those who condemned it also watched it,” said Nelson.
She got the idea to interview the women of adult films while working on her first biography about celebrated, then tortured porn star John Holmes. That biography was four years in the making and Goddesses was a 3-1/2 year effort to research and interview all of the women, as well as film historian William Margold; and in gathering the 300 photos contained in the 950-page book. The book also includes 125 film reviews.
“Their common denominator is their strength. I would go into a foxhole with any of these women,” said the married mother of two grown children.
While Nelson launched Golden Goddesses in California late last year, she is making a stop at the Chapters bookstore, on Fairview Street, tomorrow (Friday) starting at 7 p.m., accompanied by one of the goddesses.
Article by Melanie Cummings
Published on May 09, 2013 14:49
May 8, 2013
Chapters Book Event, Southern Ontario: May 10th
A very special invitation to those residing in the Southern Ontario, Canada area:
(The following invitation is also posted in the events section on facebook.)
On Friday May 10th starting at 7:00pm, please join us for a lively evening of book readings, evocative discussion, slideshow and reception for the official Canadian premiere of Golden Goddesses: 25 Legendary Women of Classic Erotic Cinema, 1968-1985, at Chapters-Indigo Book Store in Burlington, Ontario Canada. (Woodview Place, 3315 Fairview Avenue.) Look for a forthcoming article in The Burlington Post newspaper about Golden Goddesses and the upcoming event.
I am very pleased to announce that one of our very own goddesses, Ms. Laurie Holmes (aka Misty Dawn, and widow of John Holmes), will be my special in-person guest at the Chapters location.
Space is limited so to RSVP your attendance and/or to ensure a special discount on a signed copy of the book, please call: (905) 681-2410. We look forward to seeing you there!
*Within the next two weeks, the spring edition of Hamilton Magazine will be available with a special mention of Golden Goddesses in the 'On the Shelf' section of the magazine. It is a honour that "Goddesses" has been selected for recommended reading in addition to books by two other local authors. Special thanks to editor, Mark Skulnick, for your interest!
(The following invitation is also posted in the events section on facebook.)

I am very pleased to announce that one of our very own goddesses, Ms. Laurie Holmes (aka Misty Dawn, and widow of John Holmes), will be my special in-person guest at the Chapters location.
Space is limited so to RSVP your attendance and/or to ensure a special discount on a signed copy of the book, please call: (905) 681-2410. We look forward to seeing you there!
*Within the next two weeks, the spring edition of Hamilton Magazine will be available with a special mention of Golden Goddesses in the 'On the Shelf' section of the magazine. It is a honour that "Goddesses" has been selected for recommended reading in addition to books by two other local authors. Special thanks to editor, Mark Skulnick, for your interest!
Published on May 08, 2013 17:58
May 2, 2013
May Updates!
There is no better way to embrace the spring season with a wonderful new book review to post. This one is courtesy of the lovely Julie Meadows, aka Lydia Lee, posted on her blog, www.juliemeadows.com, yesterday.
Amber Lynn, Los Angeles, July 2011The following two paragraphs are excerpted from Julia's review, but the entire piece can be accessed here: Golden Goddesses review.
"One brilliant aspect of this book is the way that walking us through the lives of twenty-five notable women during porn’s golden era also affords us a gradual history of the adult industry. Get to know Ann Perry, for instance, and you also come to see the 60s and 70s through a natural progression of cultural sexual expression–from “Nudie Cuties”, to Russ Meyer films, to more explicit “loops”; before the explosive crossover success of plot-driven films like Deep Throat and Behind the Green Door. Meet Marilyn Chambers and you also meet The Mitchell Brothers. Rhonda Jo Petty introduces us to agent, Jim South, who would become a mainstay in the adult industry for years to come."
"More intriguing than just a chronology of adult movies and its stars, though, is author Jill C. Nelson’s literary perspective. Each story is carefully cultivated, highlighting each woman in intimate ways particular to her basic personality traits and sensibilities. It’s a refreshing perspective because she isn’t put off by their vulnerabilities and doesn’t shy away from their brass. These stories are simple, unapologetic, respectful and presented in whole; accompanied by childhood snapshots, as well as career photographs. This is all just a long way of saying this book isn’t just cleverly titled. Jill C. Nelson’s skilled pen invokes each goddess with kindness, poise, reverie, and above all, real and touching humanity."
I'd like to personally thank Julie, not only for her praise of the book, but also for taking the time to articulate so beautifully her impressions and insights. :)
* On May 1st, two great guys, Mike and Rob from The Projection Booth, aired our recent interview which also features an in-depth, shoot-from-the-hip interview with the amazing actress and director Veronica Hart/Jane Hamilton. We both weighed in on Jane's seminal role in the production of A Scent of Heather (1980) directed by Bill Milling, and also touched on other subjects pertaining to the book and to the adult industry, in general. To listen to the broadcast or to download the episode, please visit this link: The Projection Booth: A Scent of Heather (112). Thanks again, Mike and Rob, for inviting me to be a part of this terrific episode.
* Lastly, to listen to (or download) one of the recent Classic Rock Radio interviews featuring Ginger Lynn discussing the book and her career on 92 KQRS last Friday April 26th in Minnesota, please click on the following link: 92 KQRS. Ginger gets huge props for doing a phemonenal job flying solo. Enjoy!

"One brilliant aspect of this book is the way that walking us through the lives of twenty-five notable women during porn’s golden era also affords us a gradual history of the adult industry. Get to know Ann Perry, for instance, and you also come to see the 60s and 70s through a natural progression of cultural sexual expression–from “Nudie Cuties”, to Russ Meyer films, to more explicit “loops”; before the explosive crossover success of plot-driven films like Deep Throat and Behind the Green Door. Meet Marilyn Chambers and you also meet The Mitchell Brothers. Rhonda Jo Petty introduces us to agent, Jim South, who would become a mainstay in the adult industry for years to come."
"More intriguing than just a chronology of adult movies and its stars, though, is author Jill C. Nelson’s literary perspective. Each story is carefully cultivated, highlighting each woman in intimate ways particular to her basic personality traits and sensibilities. It’s a refreshing perspective because she isn’t put off by their vulnerabilities and doesn’t shy away from their brass. These stories are simple, unapologetic, respectful and presented in whole; accompanied by childhood snapshots, as well as career photographs. This is all just a long way of saying this book isn’t just cleverly titled. Jill C. Nelson’s skilled pen invokes each goddess with kindness, poise, reverie, and above all, real and touching humanity."
I'd like to personally thank Julie, not only for her praise of the book, but also for taking the time to articulate so beautifully her impressions and insights. :)
* On May 1st, two great guys, Mike and Rob from The Projection Booth, aired our recent interview which also features an in-depth, shoot-from-the-hip interview with the amazing actress and director Veronica Hart/Jane Hamilton. We both weighed in on Jane's seminal role in the production of A Scent of Heather (1980) directed by Bill Milling, and also touched on other subjects pertaining to the book and to the adult industry, in general. To listen to the broadcast or to download the episode, please visit this link: The Projection Booth: A Scent of Heather (112). Thanks again, Mike and Rob, for inviting me to be a part of this terrific episode.
* Lastly, to listen to (or download) one of the recent Classic Rock Radio interviews featuring Ginger Lynn discussing the book and her career on 92 KQRS last Friday April 26th in Minnesota, please click on the following link: 92 KQRS. Ginger gets huge props for doing a phemonenal job flying solo. Enjoy!
Published on May 02, 2013 10:14
April 11, 2013
Amazon Special Offer!
For readers and golden age fans who are interested in purchasing a copy of Golden Goddesses or our first book, John Holmes: A Life Measured in Inches, for a limited time, Amazon.com is offering a 10% discount on both publications. For Golden Goddesses, please visit the following Amazon link to access the 'Look Inside' feature or for buying options here: Golden Goddesses Amazon
For Golden Goddesses, please visit the following Amazon link to access the 'Look Inside' feature or for buying options here: Golden Goddesses Amazon
In the coming weeks, also for a limited time, Amazon will be offering two sample chapters of "Goddesses" on kindle and other select electronic readers for the low cost of 99 cents.
In order to purchase a second edition copy of John Holmes: A Life Measured in Inches at a 10% discount, please visit this link for more details: A Life Measured in Inches Amazon
As a rule, Amazon does not generally offer discounts on these books, so this is a good opportunity for those who would like to take advantage.

In the coming weeks, also for a limited time, Amazon will be offering two sample chapters of "Goddesses" on kindle and other select electronic readers for the low cost of 99 cents.

As a rule, Amazon does not generally offer discounts on these books, so this is a good opportunity for those who would like to take advantage.
Published on April 11, 2013 10:27
March 26, 2013
Spring Book News!
This spring and summer, I will be continuing promotion of Golden Goddesses while sharing news of upcoming events, book signings, and articles. A few significant items are on the agenda in the weeks and months to come that I'd like to tell you about:
Grand Dame: Gloria Leonard
* On April 19, 20 & 21, I will be at the Exxxotica Expo Convention located at the Trump Taj Mahal Hotel in Atlantic City. We're really excited about making the trek to New Jersey, and look forward to meeting fans and the media during the three day extravaganza. And to add icing on the cake, the ultra sexy and dynamic Golden Goddess herself, Nina Hartley, will be joining me at our booth to sign copies of "Goddesses" during the show and to pose for photos.
For more information about the show and how to purchase tickets, please visit the Exxxotica website: Exxxotica 2013 Atlantic City.
* On Friday May 10th, I will be appearing in my hometown of Burlington, Ontario, at the Chapters bookstore on Fairview Avenue for the official Canadian debut of Golden Goddesses. The evening promises to be a fun-filled, enlightening and evocative two hours complete with book readings, slide
Laurie Holmesshow, Q & A, and refreshments. I'm also very excited to add that one of our very own Goddesses, Ms. Laurie Holmes (aka Misty Dawn), widow of John Holmes, will be joining me in person at the bookstore to meet and greet readers, friends and fans. Space will be limited so please visit the event's facebook page to read details and to RSVP: Golden Goddesses Chapters Burlington. The Burlington Post newspaper will be publishing a feature article about the book and the event, just prior to the signing.
* In other news, I am pleased to announce that the May issue of Hamilton Magazine will be including Golden Goddesses as recommended reading in the innovative magazine's 'On the Shelf' section. Also, Hustler Magazine will be featuring the book and our November 2012 Hollywood book launch in its 'Bits and Pieces' section in the August issue -- available on stands May 14, 2013.
* Please stay tuned for more news once additional plans are made official!

* On April 19, 20 & 21, I will be at the Exxxotica Expo Convention located at the Trump Taj Mahal Hotel in Atlantic City. We're really excited about making the trek to New Jersey, and look forward to meeting fans and the media during the three day extravaganza. And to add icing on the cake, the ultra sexy and dynamic Golden Goddess herself, Nina Hartley, will be joining me at our booth to sign copies of "Goddesses" during the show and to pose for photos.
For more information about the show and how to purchase tickets, please visit the Exxxotica website: Exxxotica 2013 Atlantic City.
* On Friday May 10th, I will be appearing in my hometown of Burlington, Ontario, at the Chapters bookstore on Fairview Avenue for the official Canadian debut of Golden Goddesses. The evening promises to be a fun-filled, enlightening and evocative two hours complete with book readings, slide

* In other news, I am pleased to announce that the May issue of Hamilton Magazine will be including Golden Goddesses as recommended reading in the innovative magazine's 'On the Shelf' section. Also, Hustler Magazine will be featuring the book and our November 2012 Hollywood book launch in its 'Bits and Pieces' section in the August issue -- available on stands May 14, 2013.
* Please stay tuned for more news once additional plans are made official!
Published on March 26, 2013 14:09
March 12, 2013
John Curtis Holmes: In Memoriam 1944-1988

****
In memory of John, we've posted a link (below) to a very rare interview John gave in 1986 where he discussed his new company, Penguin, and various other aspects of the adult industry, in which he had been a part for more than twenty years. At this stage in his life, John was in good health, in good spirits, and was very hopeful about his future. Thanks to Laurie Holmes and to John Holmes Enterprises for granting us use of this audiofile: John Holmes audioclip.
To read more, please visit this link: John Holmes: In Memoriam 1944-1988.
Published on March 12, 2013 11:39