Jenika Snow's Blog, page 11

Guest author, J.P. Bowie

Who is J.P. Bowie?
I was born in the Highlands of Scotland, in Aberdeen, sometimes referred to as the Gateway to the Highlands. It's just down the road from where the Queen spends her summer. I left home at the tender age of eighteen and toured British theatres in numerous musical shows including Stephen Sondheim's Company.
When I came to live in the States I worked in Las Vegas, Nevada for the magicians Siegfried and Roy as their Head of Wardrobe at the Mirage Hotel. I have also lived in San Diego and Laguna Beach.

Currently, Phil, my partner of 16years ( who I met on a cruise ship) and I are living back in Nevada.

My website: www.jpbowie.comMy blog: http://wwwjpbowie.blogspot.com



Tasty tidbits about J.P. Bowie
What is your favorite season? I live in Vegas so it's definitely not summer! Best time is Oct through April when it's not hot enough to fry an egg on the sidewalk.
What is your favorite movie? I have several favourites – some of the old classics like Singin' In The Rain, Rebecca, and more recently The King's Speech. Colin Firth is the man!
If you could be any animal what would it be? A horse – as in hung like a —! Seriously, I love horses for their magnificence and elegance – kinda like my men!
Have you ever gone commando (no underwear)? All the time – especially when I wear a kilt! LOL!
How old are you? See answer 12!

Interview with J.P. Bowie
What genre/s do you write? I write mainly m/m romance about cowboys, vampires, detectives, gladiators and sometimes just ordinary guys – well, hot ordinary guys.
What made you decide to write the genre you do? I started out writing gay mysteries with minimum sex, and a friend said after reading one of my books, "Where's the sex?" So I wrote My Vampire and I and made it hot and steamy, as well as romantic. Carol Lynne read it and introduced me to Total-e-bound, and I haven't had a clean thought since!
What is your latest book/s about? I had three releases in January Nowhere to Hide– that's about a young doctor who meets an Aussie soldier in Darfur. Also the Saddle Up N Ride anthology for which I did a sequel of sorts to my single title Ride 'em Cowboy, and a re-edited version of my very first book, A Portrait of Phillip.
Was there anything that inspired you to write it? I've always admired the people who donate their time and skill to Doctors Without Borders, and they were the inspiration behind Nowhere to Hide – although they might be a wee bit surprised to hear that. Also I think Aussies are hot!
A Portrait of Phillip came about after I had read an article about a person who'd been in a coma for 10 years, and I thought 'Wow, how amazing to wake up after all that time and find out all the changes that  have taken place in the world and in your own personal circle while you're unconscious.
I couldn't quite have my hero out for 10 years so I made it 3 years, but even then life had moved on for everyone except him.
If you could pick any celebrities to play your main characters in a movie, who would they be and why? Hugh Jackman is top of the list, but I have a problem with straight actors in gay roles. (I'd  make an exception for Hugh) The rest of the list is short – Cheyenne Jackson, Chad Allen who appears in the Donald Strachey mysteries, and Robert Gant who was in Queer as Folk. Those guys are gay and wouldn't have to fake it romance.
What are your thoughts on eBook piracy? I hate those guys – nuff said!
How old were you when you started writing? I started writing seriously eleven years ago – so that makes me thirty-one! LOL.
If you could go on a date with anyone (and I mean anyone) who would it be and why? Well, Hugh Jackman is again top of the list, but I've had a crush on Brendan Fraser for years, and then there's Daniel Craig, and—okay, I know I'm being a pig!
Do you think there is a difference between making love and having sex? Absolutely. Having sex is easy – making love is ensuring the other person is as involved as you are, and is enjoying it as much. It's when you have to stop thinking it's all about you – and give of yourself in the most generous and loving way you possibly can.
Do you have any series out? What are they about? I started with a series I call the 'Portraits'. All five books are currently being re-released by MLR Press in ebook format. My Vampire and I series is now at its 6th (and final) chapter, and I have a mystery series, the Nick Fallon Investigations. I just started writing the 4th  book in that series.
Do you have a day job? I work in a bookstore – what else? Love it, as it keeps me up to date with what is current, and the youngsters I work with keep me up to date with all things young and relevant.

I want to thank J.P Bowie for taking the time to do this interview. Read below for more information on J.P. Bowie's latest releases.


Nowhere to Hide


An American doctor meets an Australian soldier in the wilderness of Darfur, and soon their passion burns hotter than the desert sun.
Doctor Mark Hamilton working for Doctors Who Care International and stationed at a refugee clinic in Darfur, never thought he'd meet and fall in love with someone like Sergeant Major Jack 'Boomer' Caruthers in the middle of the strife torn territory—nor could he ever imagine being sold as a sex slave to an exiled Prince!
Fortunately for Mark, it's Jack to the rescue. The two men make a daring escape into the desert and are picked up by Jack's team, but Mark ignores Jack's warning not to return to the clinic, with dire results.
Once again made captive by the slave traders, Mark can only cling to the hope that Jack's love for him is strong enough to face the dangers he will encounter in the vast deserts of Somalia.

EXCERPT:  The heat outside the makeshift emergency clinic was close to unbearable. Doctor Mark Hamilton wiped the sweat from his forehead and took a long swig from the bottle of water he carried. Northern Darfur was not, and never would be, the ideal spot for a summer vacation, he mused, with a wry twist to his generous mouth. Not for the first time he wondered who he should thank at 'Doctors who Care International' for sending him to this cosy spot. "Dr. Hamilton?" Mark turned at the sound of one of the nurses calling to him from inside the tent that served as a refugee camp emergency clinic until the promised, more permanent hospital was built. Promises, promises. Mark had tired of officialdom's lack of coming through on those promises, and had more or less resigned himself to looking after his patients as best he could, with what medical supplies he'd brought with him, and what the UN sent sporadically. "What is it, Asima?" The pretty young nurse gazed up at Mark from dark eyes, rimmed with tiredness. "It is Ghali, Doctor. His breathing is strange again." Mark sighed. Ghali, a young boy, had been brought to the clinic two days earlier suffering from dehydration and borderline malnutrition. Not an uncommon malady in this part of the world, but the boy had been wearing clothes that told Mark Ghali was not one of the thousands of poor, undernourished children living in Northern Darfur. His shirt and shorts were of good quality, his shoes more than serviceable. The few words he'd uttered since he'd been brought in by the goat herder who'd found him lying among some rocks were not of the local dialect. Mark's guess was that he did not come from any nearby town or village, which led to the inevitable questions—what on earth was he doing here, miles from home, and how had he managed to get this far? So far, Ghali had not answered either of those questions. He'd simply gazed up at Mark with eyes like fathomless dark pools of sadness. Something bad had happened to the boy, and he was either too ashamed or too traumatised to tell anyone of it. Mark followed Asima into the clinic, and walked between the long line of beds that flanked either side of the narrow canvassed structure. As usual, Ghali stared at Mark as he approached the bed, his eyes wary, as if he expected Mark to pick him up and throw him outside. "Salam, Ghali. Kaifa haloka—how are you?" The boy visibly flinched when Mark knelt by the bedside and placed a hand on his forehead. "He does not seem to understand," Asima said quietly. "Could be my lousy Arabic. Easy there, kid," Mark murmured. "No one here is going to hurt you." He brushed back the black curly hair from Ghali's brow. He took the thermometer Asima handed him and pushed it gently into the boy's ear. "His temperature is slightly elevated, but nothing to worry about," he told Asima after glancing at the reading. "His rapid breathing is a product of his nervousness. He doesn't trust us yet." Mark was loath to give Ghali a sedative. He was desperately low on that kind of medication and preferred to keep it for those patients with painful wounds suffered in rebel attacks. Every day he and the nurses treated victims of shootings or torture at the hands of the rebel factions that were rampant in Darfur. Still, he would like Ghali to have a peaceful night. He knew the boy had spent both nights at the clinic unable to sleep, his eyes wide open as if afraid to close them for fear of something, or someone, lurking nearby. Mark stood, ready to go to his own quarters and get a sleeping pill for Ghali. Half a pill would probably do… He stopped, surprised, when a small hand slid into his. Ghali looked up at him, his dark eyes glistening with unshed tears. Mark knelt by his side again, and gently squeezed the boy's hand. "You'll be all right," he murmured in his halting Arabic, wishing he'd spent more time on this difficult language. "You're safe here." Ghali slowly shook his head, then said a few words more clearly but in a language that had Mark at a loss. He looked at Asima helplessly. "I think that he is speaking Turkish," Asima explained. "I understand a little. He says something about bad men looking for him." "Tell him there are no bad men here." Before Asima could speak, Ghali said in English, "They will come. They look for me. They will never give up…my family…"

Where can you get Nowhere to Hide?
http://www.total-e-bound.com/product.asp?strParents=&CAT_ID=&P_ID=1057



A Portrait of Phillip


When Peter Brandon, a gifted young artist awakens from a coma of three years, he learns that his lover, Phillip, was brutally murdered and no one brought to justice for the crime. With the help of Andrew Connor, his physical therapist, he slowly regains his strength, but it is not until he visits Phillip's graveside and receives an affirmation that his dead lover is somehow guiding him to the truth, that he feels the need to get on with his life.

Through mutual friends, he meets Jeff Stevens, an ex-cop now a PI, and together they discover that Phillip was not the victim of a random gay-bashing, but of a deliberate act to silence him. They unravel a web of lies, deceit and a friend's treachery. During their investigation, Peter and Jeff find a mutual attraction for each other, a situation that is thrown into jeopardy in their final face off with Phillip's killer.
 Excerpt:Laguna Beach, California

Andrew stroked David's chest, trailing his fingers through the warm covering of curly hair, pausing to circle each nipple with his forefinger. He really didn't want to get out of bed even though he had a big day ahead of him with a new patient at the hospital, and a meeting with the patient's mother prior to the first session.
Eve Brandon had called him two days earlier saying she needed a physical therapist for her son Peter, and that Dr. Hamilton had recommended Andrew to her at the hospital. The regular therapist had taken off suddenly for a new position out of state, and the hospital staff had been filling in until a replacement was found. Andrew had called Ed Hamilton to thank him for the referral and the doctor had apprised him of the situation.
"It's a really sad case," Hamilton told him. "The boy's been in a coma for the last three years. There's very little possibility of anything changing really, but Eve-Mrs. Brandon, clings to the hope that eventually he'll wake up. Initially, we set up a regimen of passive exercise and massage to prevent the muscles from atrophying. She's insisted on keeping it going through the years, despite the fact that there's little chance of recovery."
"What caused the coma?"
"He was beaten half to death by 'persons unknown' as the police put it. They never did find out who did it. It was an obvious hate crime. The police report stated that there was no sign that their attackers intended to rob them."
"Them?"
"Yes, Peter's friend Phillip was attacked too. I'm afraid he didn't make it. He was dead at the scene."
"Jesus..." Andrew drew in a sharp breath as he recognized this part of the story. "Wait a minute-what did you say the last name was?"
"Brandon, Peter Brandon."
"Yeah, I remember reading about this. They never did find the bastards who attacked them, did they?"
"No...and it was especially hard on Eve. Her husband, Paul, had died of a heart attack a little more than a year before this incident and she had moved in with Peter and Phillip at their insistence. Terrible really, Peter was an extremely promising artist; already had a couple of exhibitions in town, and there was word of some New York dealers interested in his work. Eve won't part with any of it now, though she's had many offers."
"And there's no hope at all he may wake up eventually?"
"I'm afraid not. It's a miracle he's still alive really. Anyway Andrew, she's looking forward to meeting you. I've told her you're just the man for the job."
Andrew frowned as he remembered the conversation with Dr. Hamilton. What a god-awful thing to happen. Now, he could help but feel slightly guilty about his earlier euphoria. David stirred, and turned to face Andrew, his morning wood pushing between his lover's thighs.
"Good morning, my pretty," he murmured.
Andrew smiled and placed a lingering kiss on David's mouth. As their bodies meshed, all thoughts of getting out of bed were quickly forgotten.

Later, over some hastily prepared coffee, David asked, "So what's on your agenda, today?"
Andrew, never tired of taking in David's dark good looks, courtesy of his Italian heritage, found himself wishing they could take the day off together. David's job in a high-powered architect's office in Newport Beach demanded he work long hours, even some weekends, but the money was good and he was highly thought of by the owners of the company.
"I have my first appointment with that coma patient I told you about-Peter Brandon. You know, the one who was beaten up in LA about three years ago? I have to meet his mother first. I guess she feels it necessary to explain what she expects, though Ed Hamilton filled me in on the history. He was one of the doctors initially on the case."
"Nice of Ed to recommend you."
"Yes, it was. Apparently, he liked the work I did at the children's clinic, after that school bus accident."Andrew was referring to the physical therapy he had given to several school children after their bus had careened off the road into a ditch on the Laguna Canyon Road. None of the children had been seriously hurt, but some had required therapy for a time afterwards.
David nodded, then said reluctantly, "Okay kiddo, got to go." He rose and picked up his briefcase. "See you around seven o'clock..." He gave Andrew a quick kiss, then dashed out the door with a cheerful "Bye!"
With some time to spare before his meeting with Mrs. Brandon, Andrew cleaned up in the kitchen, then wandered into the large sunny living room they had fallen in love with when they first saw their new home. Located on a sloping vacant lot two blocks east of Pacific Coast Highway, and high enough to have an ocean view over the roof tops below, the townhouse was one of only six terraced units. The builder had gone bankrupt and the units had been placed on the auction block.
David had heard about them through one of the senior partners at the office and immediately they had put in a bid. To their amazement, they were successful in securing the exact unit they wanted. It had stretched their joint finances but they considered it a worthwhile investment. David's parents had given them some starter furniture until they were in a position to furnish it to their own taste.
Andrew walked out onto the deck, inhaling the fresh scent of jasmine that grew in abundance nearby. Leaning on the deck railing, he looked out across the tops of the carefully maintained trees that lined the street below, to the blue of the ocean beyond. He lifted his face to the warmth of the morning sun and considered himself a lucky man.

Where can you get A Portrait of Phillip?
http://www.mlrbooks.com/ShowBook.php?book=JPBPORTR

Guest author Rebecca L. Gillan

Who is Rebecca L. Gillan?
I first became interested in the paranormal at age four, when my dad let me watch Salem's Lot. For several years after, my mission in life was to catch a vampire and keep it as a pet. My older sister, who had the joy of sharing a room with me, did not enjoy me trying to use her for bait, though.
Now, thirty years later, I write fantasy romance. My taste however has gone from keeping vampires in bird cages to elves, shape shifters and the tales of ancient Briton, Whales, Ireland and Scotland. If you have ever read the Mabinogian or the Book of the Kells, you will recognize many of my characters.
Where can you find Rebecca at?
Website: http://www.RebeccaLGillan.com
Blog every Wednesday at: http://www.ShapeShifterSeductions.blogspot.com
Blog the first Friday of every month at the Whipped Cream Guest Blog: http://www.wcguest.blogspot.com

Tasty tidbits about Rebecca L. Gillan

Do you write under a pseudonym? Yes, I do write romance under a pen name.
What is your favorite season?Winter! There's nothing I love more than making a pot of home-made soup and a pan of muffins for dinner then curling under a pile of quilts in front of a fire to read on a chilly night.
What is your favorite junk food? Chocolate chip cookie ice cream sandwiches.
What is your favorite movie? Meg Ryan's "French Kiss" is definitely at the top of the list.
What kind of vehicle do you drive? My feet mostly, though I do have an '87 Pontiac.

Interview with Rebecca L. Gillan

What genre/s do you write?Fantasy romance mostly, though I dabble in most genres.
What made you decide to write the genre you do? I didn't really decide to write fantasy; my muse just seems to favor them.
What is your latest book about? "The Hawk's Bride," book one of a series on elfin shape shifters, called the Wild Lords, who are responsible for maintaining the balance of good and evil across all the plains of existence.
When did it come out? September 2010
Was there anything that inspired you to write it? It began as a story idea after re-reading the Mabinogian then kept growing until I had a whole universe, so to speak.
Do you have a day job? If so what do you do? Yes, I work as a purchasing agent for a mass transit agency by day.

I want to thank Rebecca L. Gillan for taking the time to do this interview. Want to read more about Rebecca's latest release, The Hawk's Bride? Find out more below.



The Hawk's Bride, book 1 of the Wild Lords



Available at: http://www.bookstrand.com/the-hawks-bride

Blurb:
 "Banished as a child, Lucan Hawk has grown to be a bitter warlord with a bad reputation. Now someone is killing the king's heirs. King Patton wants him named heir, assuming a shifter lord trained by black elves will be a harder target for an assassin. But Luc can't forgive his uncle for allowing the banishment ten years ago. Then he's offered a boon he can't refuse--the right to marry the only woman he ever loved!
Caitriona, a human-born cat shifter, was orphaned as a young child and brought to Aintoch to be raised by the captain of the guard. Feisty and beautiful, Cait was Luc's childhood best friend and teen sweetheart. Though she knew she could never marry her elfin lover, she never forgot him. The night Luc comes for her, she thinks she's dreaming. But the dream turns to a nightmare when the assassin targets her!"
Check out the trailer on Youtube!http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=6POE_GOlY7Q

Read the second story in The Wild Lords Series

Guest author, Gale Stanley~Contest giveaway

Want to win one of Gale Stanley's back stories? Find out more at the end of the interview.

Who is Gale Stanley?
Born and raised in the City of Brotherly Love, Gale cut her teeth on True Story magazines and Mickey Spillane paperbacks. These were swiped from her mother and read undercover by flashlight. Her weird choices in reading material —whatever she could get her hands on— inspired a love of romance and the desire to write her own stories. Life took a detour and she raised a family while working as a surveyor and a CAD manager. Now she has the best job in the world, one she can do in her pj's. Her books may be smokin' hot, but at the heart of each story is a romance and each one is written with love.


Tasty tidbits about Gale
Do you write under a pseudonym?
Yes. My last name is long and it's constantly mispronounced and misspelled. It would probably obliterate the beautiful artwork on my covers. LOL
What is your favorite season? Living on the East Coast I get to experience all four seasons. Each one is special and unique. I'm a beach person and I love to watch the ocean in all kinds of weather, from nor'easters to ninety degree heat waves. But if I had to pick I'd say my favorite season is spring - and I could have done without the 17 inches of snow we had this month.  
What is your favorite junk food?
Chips – potato chips, tortilla chips, any kind of chips. I'm a saltoholic.
What is your favorite movie?
 There are so many but I really love horror and sci-fi. I love the Alien series and I've seen all the Saw movies. But the one I can watch over and over is Hellraiser. Pinhead is such a great character.
What kind of vehicle do you drive?
I drive a Toyota Corolla. It's great on gas and easy to park. I'm notoriously bad at parking.

Interview with GaleWhat genre/s do you write?My first published work was three short stories for the Cup of Comfort anthologies. I guess you could call them creative non-fiction. Then I did a complete one-eighty and starting writing paranormal erotic romance and M/M romance.
What made you decide to write the genre you do?My love of all things paranormal goes way back. I've been fascinated by fangs and fur since I first watched Lon Chaney Jr. transform into the Wolfman. I always sympathized with the tortured hero and I wanted to write about dark, seductive alpha males, preferably of the Lycan variety. Those sinfully good-looking, arrogant men who are capable of bestowing multiple orgasms at a moment's notice.
Besides writing, I worked a day job that provided me with enough material for a book, a sitcom and a movie. I worked on a survey crew, staking out points on construction sites. Eventually I came inside to manage the CAD unit. There were fifty men in that office, a rowdy bunch and I had a blast working with them. I learned a lot about men and I discovered I liked reading and writing about them. 
When not writing, what hobbies/interests do you have?Reading, reading, reading, especially at the beach. In fact that's why I finally gave in and bought my Kindle. I always loved the feel of a print book in my hands and I used to read e-books on my laptop. Last year I went to the beach with a heavy book bag and three pdfs on my laptop. I sat by the ocean and jealously watched a woman reading on her Kindle. My pdfs had to wait until I went back inside because I wasn't about to carry a laptop along with my chair, umbrella, and everything else I shlep around. The first thing I did when I got home was order a Kindle. I love it! It's convenient, easy to use and easy on the eyes. I haven't bought a print book since.
If you could pick any celebrities to play your main characters in a movie, who would they be and why? I had a mad crush on Clive Owen when I wrote CALL OF THE WILDS. In fact, he was the inspiration for my main character before I even had a plot. No one else could play Malcolm. Becki Newton is Karin.
Does your family know about your writing career?Absolutely. I was so thrilled to be published I couldn't wait to tell everyone. If so what do they say about it?My family is very supportive. They read all my books, except my son, who won't read the sex scenes. He just cannot image his mother writing those hot encounters. But they're very proud of me and they've gotten their friends and coworkers to buy my books.
If you could go on a date with anyone (and I mean anyone) who would it be and why?This is a no brainer. It would have to be the gorgeous Jimmy Thomas, who graces the covers of SILENT KNIGHTS, SLEEPLESS KNIGHTS, SOME LIKE IT ROUGH and I hope many more covers to come. I mean – just look at him. Of course this would be in an alternate world where I wasn't married to my very own alpha hero.  
Why did you choose eBook publishing?
We live in an age of technology and ebooks are where it's at. As a writer I see everything move faster from submission to publication. The editing process is easier and we have many online tools at our fingertips.
I'm also an avid reader. I buy a lot of books. When I log onto Amazon I'm like a kid in a candy shop. I love the huge selection and the cheaper prices. They always had quick shipping but now I get instant gratification. I can download whatever I want in a matter of seconds. Is it any wonder that ebook sales have increased while print-book sales have decreased?
Do you think there is a difference between making love and having sex?
Yes, absolutely. Sex is a physical act. Making love involves intimacy and emotion. My stories are all about love. An erotic romance is first and foremost a love story. There's a good plot and well-developed characters that go through hell. The difference between traditional romance and erotic romance is the greater emphasis on the sex scenes. Now, we can open the bedroom door, and let the readers in. They can experience the culmination of all that sexual tension that's been building up since chapter one.
Do you have any series out? If so what is it about?
Black Wolf Gorge, published by Siren, is a paranormal series about wolf-shifters. CAPTIVE took the story in a new direction. I'm currently working on a three book arc that shifts the scene from the Pennsylvania Wilds to New Mexico.
The Gentlemen's Club, published by Silver, is a contemporary MM series that revolves around a club where romance and sex are only limited by the imagination. Men can act out their most breathtaking fantasies and make their dreams come true.  
Symbiotic Mates coming from Silver, is a paranormal MM series. The first book, HUNTER AND THE HAWK, will be released in April.

I want to thank Gale for taking the time to answer my questions. Find out more about this incredible author at the links below.

Want to win a FREE eBook copy of any story in Gale's backlist? Just comment her interview to be entered for a chance to win!

Where to find Gale Stanley at:
http://galestanley.net/
http://galestanley.blogspot.com/


Want to see what is coming out soon from Gale Stanley? Check it out below

SLEEPLESS KNIGHTS

A contemporary M/M/M erotic romance – official release date: March 5, 2011
Blurb: Despite being polar opposites, Andy and Paul are passionate and totally committed to each other. But when the two-year itch infects their relationship, Paul becomes distant and refuses to talk about it. Paul is the love of Andy's life and he'll do anything to make him happy, even if it means bringing another man into their bed. But is it really the answer? Or will it drive them further apart?
Zach flees to Los Angeles to escape his abusive father. He plans to use his good looks to get into the film industry but catching that big break is harder than he thought. He decides to try his luck in San Francisco. He has no money but if he can find someone to put a roof over his head, he'll trade sex for security. When two smokin' hot guys pick him up on the Pacific Coast Highway, he thinks he hit pay dirt. He never expected to actually fall for them.
SLEEPLESS KNIGHTS is available at Silver Publishing:
http://silverpublishing.info/index/book_authors_id/48/typefilter/book_authors
Excerpt:
North Beach, San Francisco
Never go to sleep angry. His mother's words resonated in Andy's head. Cliché? Maybe. But it worked for his parents. They'd been happily married for twenty years before they died in a car accident. Andy understood the concept only too well. His unresolved conflicts had been festering to the point he woke angrier every morning. It was only a matter of time until he or Paul exploded over some minor offense and destroy their relationship completely. He stood at the side of the bed and looked down at his lover feigning sleep. How do you fix something when your partner shuts you out? It had been like this for months, Paul claiming exhaustion, going to bed early and pretending to be asleep. They used to go to bed together. Now it seemed like Paul couldn't get away from him fast enough.Andy never expected things to be easy. Relationships rarely were and he and Paul were polar opposites. He expected their personalities to clash once in awhile, and they did. But despite their totally different upbringings and outlooks they'd somehow made it work. Up until now. They'd been together almost two years and Andy thanked his lucky stars they'd met at all. He'd been grieving his dead partner, hiding from the world in a hunting cabin in rural Pennsylvania. Paul had been visiting his estranged family after a bad breakup with his lover. Fate stepped in and Paul, stranded in a major snowstorm, had been forced to wait it out in Andy's cabin. Just like that sparks flew. When Paul went back home to San Francisco, Andy followed, and the rest was history. They hadn't been apart since.Too much togetherness could be part of the problem. Not wanting to come off as clingy, Andy tried giving Paul time and space for himself. After all they were a couple, not joined at the hip. Now Andy feared he'd given him too much space. He needed to change his strategy before it was too late. Maybe he could use sex to bridge the gap between them. Their sex life had fizzled out into an occasional perfunctory fuck and he hated it. Making love had always made him feel closer to Paul. He missed the intimacy they had once shared.Andy slipped into bed and curved his body around Paul's. Just his lover's musky male scent was enough to make his cock twitch with interest. He reached an arm around Paul and rolled a nipple between his fingers. Although it stiffened under his teasing, Paul gave no other sign he wanted more. Tonight Andy refused to turn a blind eye to Paul's icy indifference.

Guest author, Jerri Drennen

Who is Jerri Drennen?Being raised on a farm in Minnesota where Winter's were long and spent snowed-in inside a hundred-year-old farm house was where Jerri Drennen began her love of reading and storytelling. Years later, having married and moved to Missouri, she needed an outlet when her youngest of four was three and tried her hand at writing. She found the music of her heart--romance. Many books later, she has a full-length contemporary romance and three romantic suspense novellas available in e-book and print at Samhain Publishing and a romantic suspense at The Wild Rose Press. With Liquid Silver books she has an action-adventure romance and another contracted.

Tasty Tidbit about Jerri Drennen
What is your favorite season? Summer usually but this year it was way too hot.What is your favorite movie? Pride & PrejudiceWhat kind of vehicle do you drive? Toyota CamryIf you could be any animal what would it be? CatHave you ever gone commando (no underwear)? No
Interview with JerriWhat genre do you write? Romantic SuspenseWhat made you decide to write the genre you do? I enjoy putting characters into peril to see how they survive.When not writing, what hobbies/interests do you have? I love to draw and yard sale.What authors/individual inspired you to become a writer?Jude Deveraux, Judith McNaught and Johanna LindseyWhat is your latest book about? It's Untouched and it's about two people meeting in the jungle and finding that missing something in each other. When did it come out? The book came out in September of 2010.Was there anything that inspired you to write it? Yes. My husband loves anything Knights Templar and it rubbed off onto me. My hero, Travis goes in search of Templar treasure and finds something more precious--love.If you could pick any celebrities to play your main characters in a movie, who would they be and why? Well, in this story I used Dermot Malroney as my image for Travis. Randomly though, I'd choose Alex O'Loughlin because he's gorgeous.Does your family know about your writing career? Of course. I've been writing for forever and my sister, Cindy, is my biggest supporter. She is the first to read any of my stuff.If so what do they say about it? As far as immediate family, my husband and kids, they are very proud of me. I actually got to do a book signing at Borders. Stephanie Meyers did one in the same store the week before and we are on a Borders flyer together. How many people can say that?What are your thoughts on eBook piracy? I don't like it.
I want to thank Jerri for taking the time for this interview. If you want to find out more about Jerri Drennen's works, check out her links.

Where can you find Jerri?

http://jerridrennen.com/

Check out Jerri's latest release,
Untouched

Botanist Madeline Wentworth is relieved to be heading into the Amazon, far from the university and the vicious rumors circulating about her failed love affair. But on arriving in Peru, her team finds their guide dead with a small puncture wound to his neck. Waiting to replace him is Travis Kane, Amazon guide, treasure hunter, and superhunk. Mattie is instantly attracted but uncomfortably suspicious. When a member of her team falls ill and a similar puncture wound is found on his body, her suspicions deepen.
Travis has stuck with being a jungle guide for over ten years despite a run of unsavory clients. The rain forest is full of hidden ruins and undiscovered treasure, and he's determined to find his share. But when his grandfather dies, leaving a letter boasting of Templar gold, he's sure it's nothing more than an old man's delusion. Everything changes when he finds his grandfather's map. With high hopes, he leads Mattie's team into the rain forest and finds himself overwhelmed by the beautiful blonde. When the group is attacked and has to fight its way out of the jungle, Travis discovers something more precious than gold--the love of a woman who's made him want to be a better man.
Excerpt
Travis stripped the clothes from his body and waded into the cool water, determined to lose that picture before his swim was over.He had to get a few hours sleep tonight or he'd have a hard time staying awake tomorrow.For what seemed like an hour, he swam, gliding fluidly on the surface of the water, hoping it'd tire him out.A splashing sound from the edge of the pool put him on alert.He treaded water, his gaze darting around the pool, then coming to land on Mattie, whose barely-clothed body skimmed through the water, the moonlight casting a glow around her as if she were a ghost.Travis sucked in a breath, caught up in her movement as she closed in on him.What the hell was she doing? He had only so much control, and it was being seriously diminished by the look in her eyes.As she neared, he struggled to breathe. "What do you want, Mattie?""I couldn't sleep." The words came out in a seductive whisper, and his cock throbbed under the cool water.Christ Almighty.How was he going to fight his desire when everything she did turned him on?"You're going to be worn out if you don't get some rest." Was he telling her or himself that?"You haven't been sleeping either, have you?" She inched closer to him.If not for the water swirling around him, he'd have gone up in flames. "I'm used to not getting much rest in the jungle."She smiled, then dunked her head under the water and resurfaced.As if in a trance, Travis watched her hands glide down her long blonde tresses, wringing out the water, the droplets on her face shining in the moonlight. He was lost in her eyes--lost in one particular drop of water on her plump bottom lip. Never in his life had he wanted to kiss a woman so badly. He could almost feel her mouth fused on his--taste the cool water on her lips.This was insane.She was on the move again, skimming through the water, her intent clear. She wanted him to kiss her, and more. How could he resist the open seduction, especially with his body screaming to stop thinking and start kissing?When her toes curled around his beneath the water, an electric current shot up his leg, spreading out to every appendage, causing one in particular to go rigid.She reached a wet hand out and traced the line of his bottom lip. "You have a beautiful mouth." It was said so low he wondered if she'd meant to say it aloud.This whole thing was getting out of control fast. He either had to stop her now or kiss her until she passed out.Her index finger dipped into his mouth.Shit.

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Buy Link

Now available on Kindle
http://www.amazon.com/Untouched-ebook/dp/B004D9FY14/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&m=AG56TWVU5XWC2&s=digital-text&qid=1291377630&sr=1-1

Guest author, Cassandra Pierce

Please welcome author,Cassandra Pierce


Who is Cassandra Pierce?
Cassandra Pierce has been a fan of Gothic literature for most of her life, even studying the origins of the genre in college and graduate school. Before long, she got the urge to create paranormal romances of her own and is now hard at work on more Darkisle novels, among others. When she is not writing, she teaches college and is active in a charity that rescues and rehomes abandoned pets.


~Tasty tidbits about Cassandra~

Do you write under a pseudonym?Yes…In fact, over the course of my writing career I have used several different names…including some male ones. Nobody ever suspected a thing. These people are sort of like my evil twins, or Ms. Hydes, if you will. Pseudonyms are incredibly liberating because you can take on controversial subjects or write something really kinky, and never take any actual heat for it!
What is your favorite movie?Shattered Glass. It is the true story of a magazine writer who fakes all his stories. I have worked in the magazine business and find this film endlessly fascinating. Plus Hayden Christensen, a.k.a.  Anakin Skywalker, plays the writer, which is another bonus.
What kind of vehicle do you drive? A Dodge Caravan, which doubles as a junk mobile since I don't have a garage.
How many pieces of jewelry do you wear on a daily basis? None. I lose things too easily and a wristwatch tends to scuff my laptop.
Have you ever gone commando (no underwear)? Never...I am way too Victorian for that.
How old are you?  45 (gulp)
~Interview with Cassandra~
What genre/s do you write? I tend to write Gothics, especially vampires, but recently branched out into male/male stuff as well as werewolves. And I just had a scifi accepted by Siren, so I am getting into that genre as well.
What made you decide to write the genre you do? Simply personal taste—it's what I've always enjoyed writing. As a teenager, I nourished myself with Daphne DuMaurier, Mary Stewart, and Victoria Holt books, plus I have been madly in love with Barnabas Collins since the 70s. When vampires became the "in" thing again, I was ready to jump in with both feet, though the reality is I'd been writing stuff like that all along. I just had a better chance of being published, and luckily it worked out.
Was there a specific author/individual that inspired you to become a writer? Emily Bronte has been my muse since my teenage years…Wuthering Heights captured my imagination in a way nothing else ever has. I went on to study Gothic novels in college and earn a Ph.D. in Victorian Literature, all because of that one book.
Wow, a Ph.D. Impressive! What is your latest book about? When does it come out? The sequel to Darkisle, called Loving Two Vampires, is currently scheduled for a winter 2010 release. Early 2011 should see the publication of my science fiction ménage, Captain Gareth's Mates, and possibly a m/m werewolf novel I just finished. The Darkisle series will continue for at least one more book, and these other two also have the potential to become series books if they catch on with readers.
Does your family know about your writing career? Sadly, my parents passed away several years ago, though I did publish a paperback Regency with a small press while they were still alive. As far as my current stuff, my two sisters and brother know everything and are very supportive. I have not been able to convince them to get into ebooks, though. They are waiting for paper copies.
I'm sorry to hear about your parents, but at least they got to see your talent on actual paper. So do the rest of your family say about it? They have always known I was a little kooky, so erotic vampire stories and wild alien sex romps don't strike them as anything out of the ordinary for me. At least, they are too polite to say anything about it to my face.
What are your thoughts on eBook piracy? I'm like every other author I know: it burns me up to think that there are copies of my work floating around that I will never see a dime from. I hope everyone reading this will support an author's right to be paid for her (or his) hard work and refrain from downloading under-the-table "freebies." Or at least send in the money later if you enjoyed the book. It's NOT the same as passing on a used paperback to a friend. It's more like stealing money out of our pockets.
I wholeheartedly agree! So, how old were you when you started writing? The earliest thing I can remember writing was a Tarzan ripoff crossed with a romance novel. I called it "Bosonzi and the Hunters." Bosonzi was a jungle woman who tamed wild animals and outwitted big-game hunters along with her three teenaged daughters, who lived in a tree house with her. Eventually, she convinced the hunters to leave the poor animals alone, and her daughters married some of the guys on the safari. I typed it all up on a little red child's typewriter and even designed a cover. I can still remember the first line: "Bosonzi awoke to the screams of monkeys, as she did every morning." That was in 1973, so I was about 8. It's been all uphill ever since!
Why did you choose eBook publishing? It's the wave of the future. On certain episodes of classic Star Trek, they carried books around on little CD-style disks, and on The Next Generation they used things called PADDS, which were basically Kindles or Nooks. Who knew that would all come true in our lifetime? I am a huge Star Trek fan so I want to be in on it!
Do you have a day job? If so what do you do? I am Assistant Professor of English at a small private college in New England. Much as I love writing, I love my other job, too. And it looks like I am finally going to start teaching creative writing there. I just may inspire some new ebook authors for all of us to enjoy.
I want to thank fellow Siren author, Cassandra Pierce for taking the time to answer my questions.
Want to find out more about Cassandra? Visit her at:
http://www.cassandrapierce.com

Read below for an excerpt from Heirs to Darkisle, book 1

ExcerptA pair of French doors opened onto a small patio overlooking the rock-strewn beach. Noticing her interest, Sebastian pushed them open and motioned her outside. Briana headed straight for the sand. He caught up to her as she made her way toward the water.Finally, things were falling into place tonight. They were alone. The Morgans' private beach was quiet and romantic. Even the weather was cooperating. The moon was glowing a vibrant amber, and the wind was blowing off the ocean, strong but pleasant. Sebastian tilted his face and let the salty gusts tousle his hair. "Storm's coming. I can feel it." Briana nodded. "Well, we get a lot of those in the spring. One of the bird-watchers at the motel told me the winds can get strong enough to blow tropical birds up here. Amazing, isn't it? You might wake up to find a flamingo on your roof.""Unlikely, though appealing." He smiled, but looked back as if to make sure. "So how do you like Morgan House, with or without rare ornithological specimens?""Makes me realize how small my own place is. I'd be embarrassed to show you around the way you just did for me.""Not at all. I would be delighted to be your guest.""You know…I feel I should do something for you, considering all you've done for Todd. I'm not much of a cook—my idea of a big meal is a frozen pizza—so I don't quite dare to invite you for dinner.""A meal would not be necessary. I'd enjoy your company without any food at all." "That's nice of you to say. Have you met many people since you got here?""Your brother and Ami were the first. Aside from you, though, none have been as memorable."Briana hoped the darkness obscured her hot blush. "This probably isn't the easiest place to start over. Darkisle is one of those towns where everyone knows everyone else, as the old saying goes. If you haven't lived here all your life, it can be tricky to fit in. Boredom is another issue. Fall and winter get pretty dreary, believe me.""Yet you choose to stay," Sebastian observed. "Mostly because I don't know any other way of life. My family has lived here for generations, just like yours." She paused as a sudden thought came to her. "I wonder if they knew each other, way back when.""An intriguing possibility." "I doubt my great-grandparents traveled in the same circles as yours. Still, it's an amusing thought.""Quite."They had strayed close to the waves. The sand here felt wet and hard."I'm going to take off my shoes," she said. "The water will destroy them."Sebastian watched her pull off her boots and socks and toss them as far as she could onto dry land. With a murmur of pleasure, she thrust her bare toes into the sand and burrowed them in deep."Do you like the water?" she asked Sebastian. "I'm afraid not. I prefer to observe from a distance.""I can deal with boats as long as the waves aren't too rough. But you're right. Looking at it from here is perfectly fine."He murmured noncommittally and slid his hands into his pockets. Briana casually swung her gaze along the water and ended up staring right at him. There was no question which view pleased her more. "You probably won't mind spending the winter here. I get the feeling the isolation won't bother you at all.""Why do you say that?""Because you always seem so content, so self-assured. Like now. You look like someone who prefers being alone."He removed his hands from his pockets and gingerly stepped through the rocks, making his way cautiously toward her. He settled himself beside her, careful not to submerge his feet the way she had. "It may look that way because I am so used to being alone.""Then I'm wrong?""Not entirely. I admit I've spent most of my…existence…on my own. With solitude comes safety. You've probably discovered that for yourself."Briana nodded. "To some extent.""I won't deny my interest in self-preservation. At times, it has become an obsession. I have desired it above everything else—money, position, even love. That particular door closed for me long ago. I made a conscious decision never to pry it open.""Why?"He turned his face to the night sky, and Briana took the opportunity to study his profile. By now, everything about him had begun to arouse her: the firm, aristocratic planes of his cheekbones, the graceful way he moved, the controlled rhythms of his speech. He was utterly unlike any man she had ever met. "Over the years, I've come up with a number of reasons. Perhaps I should call them justifications. No doubt some seemed legitimate, at least at the time. Strangely enough, at the moment I can't remember a single one.""I'm glad to hear that."Suddenly, he fixed his eyes directly on hers. That she felt herself drawn into those mysterious, dark green depths came as no surprise. What she did find inexplicable was the giddiness that crept over her, the slight blurring of her own vision that accompanied his interest. She felt grateful for the solid rock beneath them."Sebastian," she whispered. Her voice grew husky with need.  "Shh."She fell silent. The longer his gaze held hers, the more lightheaded she became. She didn't move as his right hand came to rest on her shoulder, fingers stroking the side of her neck. The contact only intensified the need that swept through her with the force of a wave swamping the rock they perched on.
Want to read and adult excerpt? Click on the link below.
http://www.sirenpublishing.com/cassandrapierce/

 Check out the second story in Cassandra Pierce's tantalizing DarkIsle series, Loving Two Vampires.

Buy at: http://www.bookstrand.com/loving-two-vampires

Excerpt


He folded his arms and stared at her until she found herself getting lightheaded again. "This is your first time here."It hadn't been a question, and she saw no point in denying it. "Yes.""Name?" "Lindsay Tanner." She hadn't meant to reveal her last name, or at least not her real one. Somehow, it rose to her lips as if she had no control over her own speech. The assault must have shaken her more than she'd realized. "Uh…yours?""Caine Waldram." He reached out and grasped her hand. The coldness of his skin sent a shiver up her arm and straight to her nipples. Her own face suffused with heat as the front of her skimpy outfit stretched outward to form twin points. Caine's smile expanded along with the garment."An interesting name," she said in an effort to distract him.He shrugged. "People took Biblical names seriously when and where I was born. Either my parents had a strange sense of humor or they had a premonition about the sort of man I would become.""The Biblical Caine was cursed, you mean.""He also murdered his brother. Fortunately, I remained an only child."Though he was no longer touching her, she shivered again. "Well, you seem like a fine man to me. After all, you just saved me from that disgusting man…and from myself, I suppose." "I did what was necessary. I'll speak to management later and get our ill-mannered friend barred." He shrugged again, distracted. His gaze swept the room behind her. She was tempted to turn around, but resisted the urge. For some reason, she couldn't tear her attention away from him. He captivated her in a way the objective researcher in her found unsettling."Good idea."His smoldering gaze swung around again and pinned her. Whether a trick of the lighting or not, his eyes still appeared entirely black—perhaps like those of his Old Testament namesake. "And aside from that, are you enjoying yourself tonight? Do you like Purgatory?"No doubt he expected her to comment on the pun, so she ignored it. "It's…interesting.""I can see why you would say that. You didn't come here looking for companionship, like most everyone else. Nevertheless, you look lonely. I'm not sure you even realize it."In fact, Lindsay didn't consider herself lonely, even though her determination to earn a series of academic degrees and soon, hopefully, start a career, had made her personal life unsatisfactory at times. "There's a difference between being alone and lonely," she protested."I didn't just mean tonight." He lifted his hand and turned it palm upward to indicate a spot across the room. This time, she pivoted on her heel and looked in the direction he indicated."Now there's a man who needs companionship," Caine went on, his arm still raised. "Gabriel Blackstone is another very old acquaintance of mine, but he happens to be one you can trust. And I know as well as I know my own name that he's lonely. So go." His hand dropped to her shoulder, and he nudged her so subtly that Lindsay was moving forward before she even realized it. She didn't need to glance back to know Caine had vanished again.A tall blond man stood in the spot Caine had directed her toward, holding a tall metal goblet to his chest. His chin tilted up, and his gaze remained vacant, as though he were trying to lose himself in the strobe lights and music.Even though he scared her a little, she found Caine Waldram handsome. She couldn't deny that.But Gabriel Blackstone was, simply, the most beautiful man she had ever seen.
Adult Excerpt

Guest author, Trina Lane

Who is Trina Lane
If you look up the word conundrum in the dictionary, there should be a photo of Trina Lane. Her personality is so multifaceted that her friends have spent countless hours scratching their heads in wonder. A scientist with a passion for history, music and photography she loves to travel and experience new places but is terminally shy around people she doesn't know.Her choices in reading and writing material are as diverse as her iTunes library, which contains music from Mozart to Metallica. Her one concession is all stories must have a happily ever after ending-did we mention she's incurably romantic?She lives in Missouri with her loving and indulgent husband, and orange tabby cat–affectionately referred to as 'Houdini' for his stealthy escape attempts.
Tasty Tidbits about Trina
What is your favorite season? I love the fall. There's something about the first scent of fireplaces burning in the air on my street, watching the leaves change, and feeling cool air on my face after a long hot summer that makes me smile.What is your favorite junk food? My comfort food is actually cheese. I love sitting on the couch at night with a plate full of cheese and grapes to watch a late night movie. If you're talking about sweets then I'd have to say I flip flop between Swedish Fish and Kit Kats.What kind of vehicle do you drive? An SRT-4, modified for street racing of course. Not that I would ever race anyone, being the responsible citizen that I am *snickers*If you could be any animal what would it be? That's tough because I can see the joy in being a lazy house cat, the thrill of being a horse racing across the planes, the glide of slicing through the water as a dolphin AND soaring to the skies as a bird. So I think my best answer would be a shape-shifter so I could choose depending on my mood JWhat is your favorite color? Green! I love all the variations from rich dark forest to bright crystal. Each one is capable of making me feel a different emotion. I could do without the 1980s hyper-color neon though J

Interview with Trina
What genre/s do you write? I write contemporary erotic romance. So far I've done combinations of MF, MM, MMF, MFM, MMM. Sometimes I like to throw in a bit of suspense, other times their sweet, and we all need a little adventure in our lives. But they always end with happily ever after. I started a wolf shifter book a while back, and have been contemplating picking it up again. It would be my first attempt at paranormal, but the characters are dancing up and down in my brain begging to be let out of their cages, so you might find me doing more with the vamp/shifter genre in the future.
What made you decide to write the genre you do? I live in a contemporary world, and therefore I feel most comfortable writing about experiences readers of today can relate to. I do write some BDSM, but in my books I tend to focus on the Dom/sub emotional dynamic versus anything to do with fetishes or masochism. That's simply my preference. While I love history, I'm not ready to broach the arduous task of writing a historical novel. I'd be afraid of making a mistake, despite extensive research and upsetting a reader or disappointing myself with something not up to my standards. I've never really gotten into the fantasy realm (fairies and elves and such) too much, and although I think it would be fun I haven't sunken my teeth into writing a good vamp book yet.
When not writing, what hobbies/interests do you have? I have a passion for music and photography. I actually have a bachelor's degree in performing arts (vocal performance) which I earned as part of a double major along with the discipline that led to my every day job. I've been extremely blessed to be able to experience parts of the world I never would have, had it not been for singing. Photography is something I picked up in college and I've been honing my skills ever since. I love studying a photograph. The play of light, the balance of the composition, the different textures of the subject matter. A photograph can make you laugh, cry or completely change your perspective on the world. I mostly do architecture and landscape. Whenever I go on a trip you can bet that I have my backpack-filled with my two camera bodies, lens, filters, and of course my trusty tripod-strapped to my back.
What is your latest book about? When did/does it come out? My upcoming release Simply Perfection is scheduled for release January 31st. It's the fourth book in my Perfect Love series. In this book we get to know Dr. Matt Lincoln and Trevor Mitchell a little better as well as meet their soul mate Niall Roberge. The book also brings back characters from the previous Perfect Love books, as they all must work together to stop the bad guy.
My most recent release was a MF BDSM novella Paradise of Pleasure was part of the Master Me Anthology with Total-E-Bound publishing. It's a story about a young woman who travels to the Florida Keys to find herself, and in the process finds a Dom who teaches her the beauty of submission, as well as love.
If you could pick any celebrities to play your main characters in a movie, who would they be and why? Well let's see Niall would be Daniel Day Lewis (from Last of the Mohicans, not Gangs of New York J) or maybe Benjamin Bratt. Have you seen Last of the Mohicans? I mean come on the man was H-O-T in that movie. Not to mention he's an excellent actor. Benjamin Bratt has the native heritage that Niall does and I've seen him in roles that are both humorous and serious so he would be able to convey all sides of Niall's personality. I think Chad Michael Murray would be able to pull off Trevor. Simply because he's cute, young, and blond. It's would be a learning experience though because Trevor has some darkness to him that would make the young actor search deep within himself to find. I had to do a little searching for the perfect Matt, but I think I might have found him in Italian actor Victor Alfieri. I don't know anything about his acting, but his looks certainly fit the bill. According to IMDb he's mostly done soaps and had a part in Angels and Demons.
Does your family know about your writing career? Yes. My mom has always been a champion of my success, so she's very proud of what I've accomplished. However, she's expressed on more than one occasion nerves regarding someone in my professional field finding out about my extracurricular activities and causing issues with my licensure. My dad pretty much thinks it's funny. And my brothers have this weird combination of thinking its cool while simultaneously being mortally embarrassed. My husband-god bless him-doesn't understand why I write what I do, but has said he's proud of me.
How old were you when you started writing? I've been telling detailed stories in my head for as long as I can remember. When I started reading romance novels as a young teen I would take the characters from the books and give them alternate lives in my mind. The characters and I would then go on adventures their creators could never have guessed at.The act of writing has a bit of a different story. Not long ago my mom brought over some childhood treasures and inside I found a story I'd written in about the second grade-judging by the quality of my handwriting. It was actually pretty cleaver! So for twenty-two years I mostly wrote for academic purposes. I wrote my first novel while concurrently working on my doctorate three years ago. These two characters popped into my head one day while driving to work. Their story got more and more elaborate as the week went on. I was spending so much time at the computer anyway, that I decided what the heck I'll put it down. Two months later I had a finished book. It took me a good three months to get up the nerve to submit it to a publisher. The rest as they say is history.
What is one thing about you that no one knows? Well if I told you, then everyone who read this would know!
Do you think there is a difference between making love and having sex? Yes, but I also think that they're not mutually exclusive. Making love with someone is sharing an intimate and deep connection with your partner. Whether it's between young adults experiencing their first love, an old married couple who know every detail of each others lives, or even with a person you met that night with which you share some special connection.
Sex is act of sharing your body with another person for the purpose of experiencing pleasure. It can be fun, flirty, hot, steamy, dark, and any combination of the millions of other adjectives in the human experience. A person does not necessarily have to share emotional feelings with their partner while having sex. As indelicate as it may seem sometimes an individual may simply want a warm body to get off with.However my point being that making love and having sex are not mutually exclusive is because I believe a couple deeply in love can also have hot raunchy sex and leave the tender emotions fall by the wayside for the moment. And, a pair who may know nothing about each other or even not know if they'll ever see each other again can spend several hours, making love.      What is your current project? Well I just turned in the fifth book in the Perfect Love series, The Perfect Balance. It's an MMF that's really a prequel to the other stories. It's scheduled for release in March. I have the novel In Dreams He Came coming out next month with Dreamspinner Press, Valentines Day to be exact. Right now I'm getting my gears turning to start a new project. I'm trying to decide between a "Gay for you" story or revisiting my shifter book which is MF. Guess we'll have to wait and see what happens.
Where can you find Trina Lane at?

Website: www.trinalane.com
Facebook: www.facebook.com/trina.lane.books
Twitter: www.twitter.com/TrinaLane


Coming January 31st, 2011 from Total-E-Bound


Simply Perfection



Available at: http://www.total-e-bound.com/product.asp?strParents=&CAT_ID=&P_ID=1059

Blurb: Book four in the Perfect Love Series

Three men whose life trails converge must find a way to forge a new path together if they are to celebrate the love destined to be theirs.Niall Roberge has patiently waited years to find the two men who are destined to hold his heart forever. He believes his prayers have been answered when he meets Dr. Matt Lincoln and Trevor Mitchell.Matt has hungered for the closeness of a ménage relationship and is amazed at the instant connection he shares with Niall after being disappointed so many times before. Trevor has led a solitary life and is leery of entrusting his heart to two men who are capable of breaking through the protective walls he's managed to build with a single touch.As the three come to terms with the love building between them, they learn that someone is determined to unravel the bonds woven between their souls - a man determined to remind the three that Trevor belongs to him.
Now Available:
Master Me Anthology: Paradise of Pleasure Available at:http://www.total-e-bound.com/product.asp?strParents=&CAT_ID=&P_ID=981
Blurb: Elaina Roman is at a crossroad. She's split with her boyfriend after his refusal to try something new in the bedroom. For some time Elaina has wondered if there could be more to sex than pleasantness. She thinks she's found the answer, but where's a girl to find the experience?

Derrick Collins owns a resort catering to couples in the BDSM scene on a private island in the heart of the Florida Keys. When Elaina steps off the boat onto his island, he finds himself longing for the opportunity to dominate the stunning woman. Her wide grey eyes and quiet demeanour call to a part of his soul long thought dead. Circumstances work in his favour when a little misunderstanding has deposited Elaina right at his feet and not in the arms of another Dom.

When a week of exploration and discovery turns into love the pair must make a choice. To stay and experience a lifetime of pleasure in paradise or return to their former existences.

Guest author, D.H. Starr

Who is D.H. Starr?

Hi. Here is a little about me.

I'm a hopeful romantic with a wildly sexy side who loves to allow my imagination and fantasies to get the best of me. I believe in that look across the room that draws you to someone, but I also believe in the messy, sloppy, sweaty bedroom aerobics that make life worth living.

I work a serious job by day, so this world of erotic romance is a welcome distraction from the 9 to 5 routine.

I'm an avid movie collector, loving all genres of movies and I own hundreds ranging from the seventies to present.

I'm almost 40, but not quite, but I think I only act like I'm 20.

Kissing is better than sex if it's done right.

Tasty tidbits about D. H. Starr

If you could be any animal what would it be?
The Tazmanian Devil, the cartoon version. He is me. I'm wild, hyperactive, have been known to leave a path of destruction in my wake, and I'm sure that people say WTF just happened once I leave.
What is your favorite color?
I love blue and green, but tend to favor green. I think I like green because my eyes are hazel, but whenever I wear green, the green in my eyes is very prominent and I always get compliments. Being a whore for compliments, I associate green with a healthy dose of ego boosting.  In my books, characters who I find sexy often end up with blue eyes, green eyes, or one character sort had a mixture of both with Caribbean sea colored eyes.
What is your shoe size?
I plea the 5th. Let's just say that my shoe size is NOT a reflection of the size of my…gloves…what did you think I was going to say?
Have you ever gone commando (no underwear)?
Yes, and I don't recommend it if you have an active libido like me. It creates two problems. One, obvious and embarrassing eyefuls for others. Two, zippers are bad things.
How old are you?
I've gone around the calendar more times than I care to admit, but not enough times to warrant a mid-life crisis yet.
Interview with D.H. Starr

What is your writing day like?
I get up at 6:30, shower, and head out to the EDJ (evil day job). I spend my days walking around the middle school where I work, supporting teachers and students. Actually, I love my work and always have. I was one of those kids who knew I wanted to be a teacher when I was like 5 and followed that dream.
When I get home, I unwind, reflect on the zany things the teenagers have done that day at school, and once my mind is sufficiently drained of that ridiculousness, I try to write a chapter of a current project.
I tend to do this in small chunks of time, intermittently taking breaks to go out and grab coffee, watch a show, do other private unmentionable things, etc. I also try to read because what is a writer but someone who loves stories. Actually, I review for a few sites, won't name them here, and it keeps me tapped into the current trends in what s being written. There are some truly amazing authors out there.  Hundreds of them. It's been such a pleasure to join this community of extraordinary people who have created stories which have carried me though every imaginable emotion.
Do you have any favorite authors?
Ally Blue was the first and I find her writing, EVERY story, to be an incredible journey. What I love about her writing is something that I feel matches my own style. She writes so fluidly, the action of the story flowing so that before you know it you are half way done with the book. I also love JL Langley. Her creativity with paranormal and sci-fi regency writing fits perfectly into my favorite types of writing. Mark Kendrick has written two gay themed young adult novels which have meant a lot to me.
The author who has had the largest impact on my writing life is without question, Sedonia Guillone. I met Sedonia when she accepted a book for publication at Ai Press (ai-press.net). Together, with her serving as my editor, we worked and reworked Meant For Each Other until the story represented all I had envisioned it to be. Through the revising process, she guided and mentored me with kindness and rigor. I am a better writer and have honed in on my particular style because of my work with her. Along with being a tremendous publishing house owner, she is a brilliant author as well. I lucked into an incredible relationship with her.
Why did you choose eBook publishing?
I don't think I chose eBook publishing so much as I'm working with the times that we live in. At first I thought, "damn, I don't want eBooks out there." Now that I have a couple books published, I realize that more readers are interested in buying the electronic version of the stories than print.
As with everything else, new technology and innovations will drive the way the market operates. Right now readers of eBooks seem to be on the rise.
Also, my particular genre is m/m erotic romance. Typically, book stores either don't carry these books at all, or have pitiful selections. The best way for me and other authors like me to get our work out there to our readers is through eBooks.

Do you think there is a difference between making love and having sex?
Making love? What is this making love you refer to, crazy person? I know nothing of making love.
Are you strictly an eBook author?
No, I write authors in both eBook and print. I actually prefer it that way, although some houses don't publish in both mediums. I've been lucky to be with MLR Press, Featherweight which publish both electronic and print. Ai Press currently only publishes electronic, but will soon expand to print.
Honestly, I love having the paper edition of a print book in my hands. Don't get me wrong, I couldn't survive without my eReader, but seeing my work on the page was an incredible feeling.
What is your current project?
You know, I'm one of those authors who works on several projects at once. The easiest way for me to answer this question is to categorize the works which I consider my current projects into levels of completion.
Published Wrestling With Desire (Featherweight Press www.featherweightpublishing.com)Meant For Each Other (Ai press www.ai-press.net)




Contracted Premonition (MLR Press – release date TBD)Reward of Courage (Ai Press – release date TBD)

Completely drafted and in revision before submission A Vampire's Mind: Whispering Hills Series Book 1 (will be subbed to Ai Press for first consideration)Skating For Gold (will be subbed to Loose ID for first consideration)
Drafting Variant Breed (will be subbed to Dare Empire for first consideration)Fairy Dust: Whispering Hills Series Book 2 (will be subbed to Ai Press for first consideration)
Do you have any series out? If so what is it about?
Is sort of an acceptable answer?
DEREK & SCOTT
Wrestling With Desire is a young adult novel about Derek Thompson and Scott Thayer,who fall in love their senior year in high school. It is a sweet romance and deals with self-acceptance and being honest with family. This book can be purchased at Featherweight Press. 



Reward of Courage is the sequel to this book is a contemporary erotic romance. It is contracted with Ai Press and follows Derek and Scott to their freshman year in college.



I have two other stories planned for Derek and Scott. One which takes place between Wrestling With Desire and Reward of Courage. It involves Derek and Scott going on a summer camping trip with their friend Beck and her boyfriend. Scott, the more "masculine" of the two boys will buddy up with George (Beck's bf) and they'll deal with unexpected surprises on the trip while George discovers that the only difference between straight and gay people is who they like, not how they feel. No title yet, but I'm hoping to keep it with Featherweight. Then I'll write a final installment where Derek and Scott are seniors and Scott will cheat on Derek. They will have been together for five years and will have to examine fidelity, the loss of trust, and the hard work of rebuilding their relationship.
WHISPERING HILLS
This is a series that I have begun. I've completed the first book and am about ready to submit it for publication. Whispering Hills is a conminium complex in Providence Rhode Island that houses both paranormal beings and humans. Each story follows one of the paranormal beings as they go about their lives of lust, intrigue and love. A Vampire's Mind is book 1 and I'm drafting Book 2 which will be called Fairy Dust .
Why did you choose your particular publishers to go with?
Featherweight chose me. I had submitted to MLR because I love the authors they have there. MLR said that the book fit their new publishing house, Featherweight, which caters to young adult and children audiences.
Ai Press I chose because Sedonia Guillone, the owner, saw the vision I had with my book Meant For Each Other. I had subbed it to a few other places, but they wanted too many changes to the story. I simply didn't feel comfortable making the extent of changes they wanted and couldn't be happier with the home I found at Ai Press.
Now that I have a home at MLR, Featherweight, and Ai, I feel like I have found my niche. Laura Baumback is a loyal and caring publisher as is Sedonia Guillone. They both respect and cherish their authors and I couldn't be happier with the relationship I have formed with both. I think that's really important for all aspiring authors. You'll receive a lot of rejections. I did as did my friends. But stick to your story. You will find a home for your story and a publisher who is looking for your style of writing.
I want to thank D.H Starr for taking the time for this interview. You can find out more about this incredible author below.

Where can you find D.H. Starr?

Website: www.dhstarr.com
Blog: www.dhstarr.blogspot.com

Guest author, Em Woods

Who is Em Woods?
Let's see, a little about me. I am an Army brat, which lends to my imagination…and I am the mother of two energetic little boys, which gives me my sense of humour. I started writing in high school for the newspaper and have written steadily since then for my own enjoyment. I have lived everywhere thanks to the travel bug I inherited from my parents, but currently am push-pinned in southeast Michigan. A typical day is a little crazy but I always work in writing time and I love chatting with friends.


Tasty tidbits about Em Woods
What is your favorite season? Fall. It has a certain crispness to it that just makes you want to be outside soaking up the last of the good weather.
What is your favorite movie?  Transformers. Bumblebee is just too dang sexy. J
If you could be any animal what would it be? A Siamese cat. I mean, seriously, what else could you be and still be snooty, lay around all day, and have humans cater to you without expecting anything in return?
What is your favorite color?  Blue.
How old are you? 36

Q&A with Em Woods

What genre/s do you write? I write contemporary gay romance and paranormal contemporary romance.
What made you decide to write the genre you do?    Originally, I wrote a straight paranormal contemporary, and thought, "Man, this is the life." But then one day, I wrote a short five-hundred-word story to a prompt that came out as a gay romance. It was so much fun that I let it have wings. Now, three short stories and a novella have been accepted by TEB, and I honestly don't see a reason to slow the ride.
Was there a specific author/individual that inspired you to become a writer? I've written since high school in one form or another, mostly for myself. But I took this creative writing course a little over a year ago and my teacher, Cindy, totally gave me a kick in the pants. She was so encouraging and optimistic about my writing that I decided to give it an honest shot, instead of just tinkering with it in my journals.
What is your latest book about? When did/does it come out? Jack's Way comes out as part of the Saddle Up 'N Ride anthology (with a handful of other amazing authors) on January 17, 2011 with Total-e-Bound Publishing. 


Blurb:Ben Morillo, a prominent architect, has a good life. He works for one of the leading firms in New Hampshire, owns his flat and stays out of the lime light. That is until his ex-lover shows up at his work months after their violent break-up, making a scene that gets Ben fired.
Jack Marr, ranch owner and closeted cowboy, can't believe his bad luck when he has to pick up the handsome friend of his veterinarian. Convinced Ben won't stick around, Jack struggles to protect his heart before the attraction between them leaves him broken.
When Ben's old boss tracks him down, he's called back to New Hampshire to complete the job he was working on when the firm let him go. While Ben is determined to make Colorado his home, Jack is just as determined to consider Ben gone.
Ben and Jack must feel their way through an amused veterinarian, a cranky horse and too many misunderstandings, but in the end, will Ben be able prove that Jack's way is the only way for him?
Was there anything that inspired you to write it? Ava March, a lovely author and superb writer, emailed one day about a publisher seeking cowboy stories. LOL. She said something along the lines of she couldn't write them but she'd bet I could if I had the time to do it. Her encouragement has meant more than I can express.
If so what do they say about it? Most of my family is thrilled that I've published a book, and they don't give a hoot what the genre is. I do have a sister that thinks I'm going to hell. To which I say I'll see her judgmental butt there.
What is your writing day like? I have two little boys (and one hubby!) that require my attention during the daylight hours…but when the nights roll around – from 9pm to whenever – that's when the boys come out to play. Pun intended.
Do you have a favorite author/s? Oh my gosh. In general - Christine Feehan, Nora Roberts, Kay Hooper, Julie Garwood, JK Rowling…In my genre – Ava March, Cameron Dane, TA Chase, Serena Yates, Shawn Lane, Devon Rhodes, Kim Dare…I could really go on forever.   Are you strictly an eBook author? If so why did you go that route? I am. It isn't that I have anything against print publishing but they just haven't caught up with the times. Besides, gay erotic romance has its place in digital and I like that. I think we have a real opportunity to bring great stories to more people and with the growing popularity of e-readers it makes sense be here. It just feels right.

    I want to thank Em for talking the time to chat with us today. Find out more about the amazing author and her releases below. 



Find at more about Em Woods at:
Website:  www.em-woods.comFacebook: www.facebook.com/emwoodsauthorTwitter: www.twitter.com/emwoodsauthorGoodreads: www.goodreads.com/emwoods

Check out Em Woods newest stories:
Now available!
Chasing AlexPart of the Yule Be Mine winter collection


Blurb:
Just returning from an eye-opening trip to Colorado, photographer Victor Schwartz knows planning a nature shoot in November to the Michigan Upper Peninsula is risky. However, trapping Alex Merit, his personal assistant, in a remote cabin with no one to focus on but him is exactly what Victor thinks will get the job done. He wants Alex to realize that there can be more between them than a working relationship. A lot more.
Alex can't believe Victor is making him go on this damn trip. He has a to-do list a mile long, starting with submitting portfolios to impatient magazine editors and ending with putting a stop to lusting after his sexy boss. And that's not to mention the snowstorm about to bury the Midwest.
Even though being stuck in a small cabin with Victor might not be at the top of Alex's to-do list, Victor certainly stars in all of his dreams... so when dreams become reality, will they be able to get the ending right?

Guest author Rachel Randall

About Rachel Randall
Rachel Randall has lived in three different countries over the last five years and is currently enjoying the good cheese, cheap wine and excellent trains of Europe. She knows far too much celebrity gossip and spends too much on concert tickets. Rachel believes the words "too much" are highly overrated and is having a blast with her new identity as an Erotic Adventuress.
HAPPY NEW YEAR :)

Tasty tidbits about Rachel

What is your favorite movie? Terminator 2. Total bad-ass Linda Hamilton escaping from the mental institution, then Arnold comes out of the elevator in slow motion, and then she starts keening and sliding backwards on the floor in horror, and just, the best.scene.ever.
What kind of vehicle do you drive? I ride a silver Giant Melbourne, baby! Here in the Netherlands, your bike is your best friend and the only ride you'll ever need.
What is your shoe size? North American 8.5, UK 6 and European 40. (Can you tell I've been moving around a lot lately?)
How many pieces of jewelry do you wear on a daily basis? As many as possible, and as sparkly as possible. I love big rings and long earrings in particular—if it's bling, I'm in.
How old are you?I just turned 33!



What genre/s do you write?Contemporary for my first three books, and my Victorian-era BDSM historical Playing with Prudence will be out on 28 March.
When not writing, what hobbies/interests do you have?I love live music and theatre. It's one of the (many) reasons I miss living in London—there was always amazing stuff on, and the National Theatre's ten pound seasons are not to be missed. I've got tickets to see Take That with Robbie Williams in Amsterdam in July 2011, but that's ages away. I'll be a tourist in New Zealand for a month in March, so I'm hoping some good bands will be playing during my visit.
What is your latest book about? When did/does it come out?His Christmas Present is set at a fabulous Christmas sex party in a manor house on the outskirts of London. It's got costumes, ménage, hot men, hot women, snow and mistletoe, champagne, steamy shower sex, voyeurism, blindfolds, car kink and more. Lee, from my first book The Festival Spirit, appears in the story. So does new character Valentine, who will star in Taking it Off, my 14 February release Taking it Off. His Christmas Present is currently available from Total E-Bound, and you can find the links and an excerpt below. I hope you enjoy it as a way of keeping the glitter of the festive season in your life for just a little bit longer.
Was there anything that inspired you to write it?The SAD lack of Christmas parties in my life last year. I sat down and thought, right, what would the ultimate holiday party be like? And by writing it, I made sure I got to go! (PS, you're invited too!)
Does your family know about your writing career?My family knows I write erotic romance and they think it's great, but in a very vague, details-not-required sort of way. My friends know and think it's great, and some of them want to read and some of them don't. You can learn a lot about your colleagues, too, by discussing erotic romance with them—as long as you're not too scandalous at the water cooler, everyone wants to offer an opinion.
What do they say about it?My mom and her friends always have an opinion on my characters' names. Seriously. You know when you were a teenager only your mom could give you that particular look that made you slink back upstairs to change your outfit? Yeah. If I make the mistake of mentioning a character to my mom, chances are I'll be renaming the poor bloke before the day is through…
If you could do one taboo thing what would it be and why?I have this secret thing about sex in elevators. I've never done it, but my partner gets this look of nervous anticipation whenever we're alone in an elevator together, because clearly I start broadcasting naughty intent. Do I really want to have sex in an elevator? I don't know! But you can bet that elevator sex will turn up in a Rachel Randall story sooner rather than later.
If you could go on a date with anyone (and I mean anyone) who would it be and why?Alex Kapranos, lead singer of Franz Ferdinand. Tall, talented, stylish, and (I'm sure) utterly filthy. We'd be having a threesome with Florence Welch (+ her machine) after he'd, ahem, taken me out.
Do you have a favorite author/s?I'm a total slut for different genres... One of my long-time favourite fantasy authors is Guy Gavriel Kay. He writes lovely, lush alternative histories, often with incredibly-satisfyingly-tragic romances. Scott Lynch is a new joy—his third Locke Lamora book can't come quickly enough! I read lots of historical romance (Untie My Heart by Judith Ivory and The Wedding Season by Connie Brockway are two old favs). In contemporary, I'm a big fan of Victoria Dahl. I also have an ill-advised soft spot for Australian action-adventure writer Matthew Reilly. His books are full of danger! Maps of trap systems! Descriptions of ballistics! Dodgy history and conspiracy theories! Overused exclamation marks! Books should be enjoyable above all, and I love it when an author comes through with the unselfconscious fun.
Why did you choose eBook publishing?            I love the opportunities implicit in ebooks—literally, anything goes. As a reader (and genre slut), that's tremendously appealing. If I fancy it, not only will it exist, but I can get it pretty much instantly (a great thing when you can't just wander into a local bookshop and find what you want in English). And, as a writer (and genre slut), the appeal is even greater. You're not restricted by length, you can write genres that just don't flourish at the print publishers, and a huge amount of control remains in your hands. Ebooks all the way.

I want to thank Rachel Randall for taking the time to participate in this interview! Find out more about Rachel below and her newest release.




Read more about Rachel Randall
Rachel's webpage: http://rachelrandall.wordpress.comRachel's Twitter: www.twitter.com/rachel_randall

Read an expert below from Rachel newest release:
His Christmas Present

Buy link:http://www.total-e-bound.com/product....Blurb:
You are cordially commanded to attend my Christmas revel…

When London cabbie Tim drives the gorgeous Diana to a costume party, he eagerly accepts her invitation to stay. He soon learns that this is no ordinary holiday bash—it's an exclusive sex party, where saucy secret Santa favours are exchanged and even the Christmas tree's hung—with condoms.

Diana has chosen Tim as the perfect gift for their charismatic host, Max. But before Max gets to unwrap his Christmas present, the other guests want to play naughty and nice with his new boy-toy. Tim's in for a very sexy Christmas Eve.

Welcome to the party.Excerpt:

Caging him, Max backed Tim into the newel post of the staircase and kept him there while his mouth, his tongue, worked. So fucking good. Pleasure fractured through Tim. Exactly what he'd wanted, what he'd needed, satisfying in ways that no one else here could have matched.Max bit down suddenly on his lip. The tang of pain woke Tim from his mindless compliance. He hauled them around, using momentum to shift Max's heavier frame until it was Max's back that was pressed against the diagonal rise of the banister. Tim swiped his tongue into Max's mouth, licking at his teeth, his smooth palate, his alcohol-roughened taste buds. When Max shifted his weight, Tim immediately seized the opportunity, knocking Max off-balance with a quick insinuation of his feet between the other man's footfall.Max growled low in his throat and the sound reverberated through Tim's open, searching mouth as they clashed in another kiss. When Tim gasped, Max preyed on the momentary weakness, his hands clamping down on Tim's wrists. Tim brought his arms up swiftly between their bodies to try to break his hold but Max was as strong as he looked. His grip didn't loosen, not even when his tight fists skidded down Tim's forearms. The burn of flesh on flesh was amazing, straight to Tim's cock.Tim relaxed suddenly and Max instinctively did too, just that tiny bit that Tim needed to break his hold. They both froze at stalemate, their breathing coming heavy."Upstairs," Max ground out.            The ribbon on the staircase was already broken; the golden tape left trailing to the floor. Even from halfway up they could hear them, moans coming from behind the closed bedroom doors. There was a crash that sounded like furniture falling over, and the sex sounds picked up in speed and volume."Merry Christmas for someone at least," Tim managed. Anticipation had him in a choke-hold, his cock was stiffening with every step.  He shut up, concentrating instead on the tightly controlled movements of Max's ass in front of him.

Guest author, Lisabet Sarai

Who is Lisabet Sarai?
A dozen years ago LISABET SARAI experienced a serendipitous fusion of her love of writing and her fascination with sex. Since then she has published two single author short story collections and six erotic novels, including the BDSM classic Raw Silk. Dozens of her shorter works have been released as ebooks and in print anthologies. She has also edited several acclaimed anthologies and is currently responsible for the altruistic erotica series COMING TOGETHER PRESENTS.
Lisabet holds more degrees than anyone needs from prestigious universities who would no doubt be embarrassed by her chosen genre. She loves to travel and currently lives in Southeast Asia with her highly tolerant husband and two well-traveled felines.
For more information on Lisabet and her writing visit:

Lisabet Sarai's Fantasy Factory (http://www.lisabetsarai.com)
Lisabet Sarai's blog, Beyond Romance (http://lisabetsarai.blogspot.com).

Lisabet's most recent release is Almost Home , a M/M/F holiday romance featuring a mistletoe kiss, a warm fireplace, a hot tub, and lots of snow!





A Christmas message from Lisabet
Greetings to all this Christmas day! Even if you don't celebrate Christmas, it's hard to resist the feeling that there's magic in the air.
To help you celebrate, I thought I'd offer you a short, sexy tale I wrote last season that I think captures a bit of the wonder of the season. Enjoy!


Holiday Magic
By Lisabet Sarai

Easy (For G.T.)
Sleet was the worst. He huddled under the awning of the shuttered refreshment kiosk, shivering as a gray veil swallowed the skeleton trees across the lake. It wouldn't take more than ten minutes for sleet to soak through his sweatshirt and the two sweaters he wore underneath. Then the wet clothing would freeze against his skin. The icy slush pooled at the curbs would leak into his battered shoes on his way back. Bally was a top brand, but the miles he had walked in the last six months had worn through the soles. Besides, even the best leather was never any good in winter weather.
He remembered his down ski parka – Columbia! – how toasty warm he had felt as he swooped down the  black diamond trails up at Killington. Gone, like so many other things. If he had only realized what was happening, he might have planned a bit, held on to what was really important. It has happened so gradually, though. Plus it had violated all that he had believed and trusted. It had been inconceivable that he would find himself in this situation: jobless, homeless, broke and alone. On Christmas Eve, yet.
He had a Harvard MBA, for God's sake. Who would have thought that his plum product manager position at a top hi-tech, his BMW, his four bedroom colonial, his wife, his kids, his life, could all melt away like snow on a steam-tunnel manhole?
In the distance, the clock in City Hall tower struck three. Two and a half more hours and he could return to the shelter. He clenched his hands inside the canvas work gloves he had found discarded on trash pickup day last week, trying to reduce the surface area. His fingers were already numb. His feet were blocks of ice too. He had to get inside, somewhere. The temperature dropped as dusk approached.
He had two quarters and a dime hidden under his layers of rags, but he had already had his coffee today. He had made it last for two hours, while the Burger King staff glared at his bedraggled form slumped in the corner. Tough. He was a paying customer.
Cloud-colored ice skinned the lake where he used to take his daughter canoeing. Not strong enough yet for skating. He could start walking across. He knew the surface would crack long before he reached the boathouse on the opposite shore. It would be so easy. The lake was deeper than you'd expect.
The ice would freeze over his entry point. They wouldn't find him, not for days or even weeks. No one visited the park in the winter. That's why he came. The cops didn't hassle him here and he didn't have to suffer the looks of pity and disgust he got on the street.
Easy, yes. So tempting. Everything else was so difficult now, a daily struggle to survive. Why should he bother? Who, after all, would care?
He'd thought he was so clever, hiding his affairs, but his wife eventually lost patience. She took the kids out west, leaving him with the huge, empty house and an equally enormous alimony payment. Then came the downsizing―hell, how many "personnel reduction strategies" had he helped to plan? The bottom dropped out of real estate, but the mortgage had to be paid. No one, he discovered, wanted to hire a manager in his fifties, no matter how stellar his credentials.
His sigh hung in a white cloud  before him. He had pawned his Rolex early on, but he guessed that about ten minutes had passed since the clock chimes.  He closed his eyes, unutterably weary, longing for his cot in the shelter. It was hard to sleep there in the dorm, with the bums raving around him all night, but right now he would have given anything to be able to collapse onto the thin mattress and pull the rough blanket around his ears.
"Good afternoon, sir."
He started, the youthful voice pulling him from his drowsy stupor.
"Ah―um―good afternoon."  She was a beacon of color in the monochrome landscape, with pink cheeks, copper curls and a long, holly-green coat. A matching green ribbon held her fiery hair away from her face. She was young, certainly no more than twenty, with a freshness that made her seem old-fashioned. That coat reminded him of one his mother used to wear in the fifties, shaped like the letter A with those funny sleeves―raglan sleeves, they were called. He felt irrationally pleased that he could remember. His mother's coat had been a sober brown, though. This woman's garment was so bright it made him blink.
She stepped closer, out of the sleet, joining him under the overhang. "Wintery weather," she commented, smiling up at him. Her eyes were the same startling hue as her coat.  Her lips formed a perfect bow.  Even in the chill air, he caught a hint of her scent, cool and fresh like evergreens in snow.
He was suddenly aware of his own funky smell, his ragged clothing and his three days of stubble. He searched the girl's face for the inevitable sympathy or scorn. He found neither. Instead, inexplicably, he recognized desire.
His cock stirred inside his sweatpants.  Was it possible? Exhausted and underfed, he hadn't been horny in months.
She took his hand in her own small, bare fingers. "I know someplace warmer. Come with me."
She drew him along the slippery path that circled the lake. Needles of sleet pricked his cheeks. His sweatshirt grew wetter with each step. In her cashmere coat and patent-leather boots, the woman seemed not to notice the weather.
Another spot of color grew before them. A Japanese-style bridge, rust-red, arched over the narrowest point in the hourglass-shaped lake. The trail crossed the bridge. He had never noticed the stairway leading down the bank.  There was a ledge underneath, bordering the water, making a snug private space.  He had to crouch down to follow her inside. The bridge swept upward, just over their heads.
"We're out of the wind here," she told him, her voice like bells. "Let's sit down." She slipped the coat off her shoulders and spread it over the dry stone.
He couldn't believe his eyes. Under the festive-hued coat, she was naked. Her skin was a creamy peach  tone. The buds tipping her sweet, small breasts were a deeper rose.  A ginger tangle at the apex of her thighs hid her sex. She looked like an innocent angel. Her smile as she reached for his zipper, though, hinted of lascivious delights.
"Wait―I can't..."  His erection thickened by the second as she worked at his jeans but his shame was stronger than his lust. "Please, I haven't had a shower in a week. I smell..."
"I don't care," she murmured, peeling the denim away from his hips and starting work on the sweatpants underneath. "I like the way you smell." She gripped his rod. Her flesh was hot against his chilled skin.
"But why...?" His protests grew weaker as she pumped her hand up and down his length. "Who...?"
She stopped him with a peppermint flavored kiss. "Because I want you. Now. I can't wait." He surrendered, sinking back onto the soft wool, entwined in her arms.
After that, there was nothing but glorious warmth, luscious wetness, tightness coiling in his groin and then expanding into utter relief. I must be dreaming, he thought, as she wrapped her thighs around his waist and drew him deeper. Maybe I'm dying.
He didn't care.  She offered him her fire and he accepted her gift. He forgot everything except her satin skin, her cushioned hollows, her scent of fir trees by the ocean. There was no past, no future, only an eternal present.
They drifted together, passion cresting and receding and peaking again, lost in the ancient rhythms of the flesh. Finally, even their bodies melted away. All that remained was joy.
The chimes woke him, five strokes that reached him through some kind of fog. Darkness had fallen. Shadows filled the cozy nook under the bridge. Even in the gloom, though, he could tell that he was alone.
His limp, sticky cock hung outside his pants. As he noticed, he realized how cold he was, not just his penis but his whole body.
A dream, he thought. Still, shreds of joy clung to him. A dream like that was far better than waking life. Perhaps he could recreate the dream tonight, in his dormitory bed. He closed his eyes, summoning her emerald eyes and plump lips. Yes. He would not forget.
He needed to hurry, though.  The shelter opened in a half hour and beds were allocated on a first-come, first-serve basis.  He zipped up and then pressed against the ledge to lever himself onto his hands and knees.
He felt the plush softness of cashmere beneath his palms.
It was too dark to see, but he knew it was her coat. But if she had left her coat here, did that mean that she was wandering naked in the park in these frigid temperatures? Was she crazier than the old coots at the shelter?
I've got to find her, he though, gathering the warm garment in his arms and crawling out from under the bridge.
The sleet has stopped. The December air was a knife in his lungs, clean and sharp.  He peered into the darkness, seeking the slight, pale form of a nude woman.
A cluster of stars was born. To his right, twinkling points of brightness twined through the tree branches. Another tree leaped into light down the path. One by one the black winter skeletons transformed into fairytale shapes as the city turned on the holiday decorations.
Finally, surrounded by glory, he understood.  He swung the coat over his shoulders and wrapped himself in its warm, pine-scented folds. Another gift, to remind him how precious life is. Even his life.
He headed for the street, humming an old carol under his breath. He had only twenty minutes to get to the shelter, but he wasn't worried. It would be easy.