Jami Gray's Blog, page 17

Unlocking the Mystery of Your Readers #readers #writers #stories #MythicCafe

In case you’re wondering, I do actually read other blog posts, often. As a matter of fact, for the second week I’m going to send you off to see the full article here (Mythic Scribes, Understanding How Readers Read by Nils Ödlund) before we begin.

I love Mythic Scribes, they have a great collection of posts, and this one by Nils discussed why he only lends half an ear to writing rules as a newbie writer, and then an ear and a half to his readers.

He makes a clear distinction on writing rules:

“The rules of writing tell me how I should write, but they don’t really tell me why. That’s something I have to figure out on my own.”

And what he can learn from readers:

“I think – and this is just a hunch – that understanding how readers read can take my writing a lot further than any rules for how I ought to write. When I understand how words and sentences turns into images and emotions and stories I can take that into account and I believe my writing will be better for it.”

I like my writing rules as much as the next writer, but it’s impressive that Nils nailed this particular point early on in his writing.

Writers are generally avid readers, which may explain our instinctive ability to grasp what makes a story, well, a story. Since this is my blog and I haven’t conducted any scientific polls on this, I can only offer my personal opinion here. It may not fit all, but I’m willing to bet most writers will get it.

Because I devour books faster than chocolate (quite a feat!), I know what keeps my attention riveted on turning the next page until the wee hours of the morning. When I write, I try to recreate that same level of sorcery fascination in my stories. I have been (lovingly) accused by my writering partners of not giving my readers or my characters a chance to catch their breath. My characters tend to run from one big “oh shit!” moment to the next, barely taking the time to bend over, hands on hips and choked a few lungfuls of air down, before dashing over to the next catastrophe.

While this hits the writing rule of making sure every chapter, every scene moves your story forward, it also keeps my readers, reading.  Because my readers love fast paced, action packed, tension mounting stories, where there’s no time to second guess your the characters’ actions before you they are faced with the next situation.

Knowing what our readers enjoy, it helps us craft our stories. When I read, I want to be able to put my face on the main character, feel my pulse race with the MC’s, my heart break with the MC’s, and I want to triumph with the MC.

As a writer, to share this magic with my readers brings me joy and helps me sit down for another round with the keyboard.

Who Are You Racing Against? #writercompetition #writinglife #rachelleayala

Back on March 22nd, I read a blog post by author Rachelle Ayala,(click here for post) regarding what she learned after four years of being a self published writer. It’s a great article, so I nudge you to go read it.

She hits four basic points about being a writer, traditional or indie, and the one that hit home for me was point four, “You Can’t Keep Up with the Jones.”

I have been heard to say I’m not competitive. Of course, it’s hard to hear me over my Knight’s strangely re-occuring coughing fits, but I’ll share a little secret with you.  I am competitive. Not in many areas, but when it comes to my writing, it’s on like Donkey Kong.

Now, I don’t go out and challenge authors to a duel or anything, instead I find myself talking to my writer-self. “Two books a year? You’re falling behind, girl.  What are you doing taking a shower? Get yo’ ass in a chair and start another book. You want to make it, you’re going to give me three books a year. Do you hear me?” (Yep, I’ve morphed into a screaming drill sergeant during this rant).

So, imagine how grateful I was when Rachelle said in her post,

“Even if you are one of the superstars of 2014, you are one book away from oblivion. Yes. That’s true, IF you are comparing yourself to others. There’s always going to be that book about space vampires steampunk BDSM billionaires that’s going to surprise the world and blow up your carefully crafted series with the bazillion brothers, sisters, cousins, and the entire state of Virginia family saga for the #1 position. It came from nowhere! And you, my goodness, you slaved and slaved for twenty hours a day, you wrote your fingers to the bone, and you can barely open your eyes and drag yourself to your laptop one minute longer, and blammo. That book beat yours! You’ve lost the brass ring, the lucky charm, the golden crown. You’re a HAS-BEEN!!! Ahhhh… kill me now!”

Because, sometimes you need to hear the truth. You really are one book away from oblivion. Doesn’t matter where you rank today, you have to keep writing, at your own pace, because true craft takes full fledged committment, not a teeth-gritting “I’m going to win” attitude.

It gets better. TOUCHED BY FATE, the second book in the PSY-IV Teams, is now in my brillant editor’s hands, and my type-A personality means I am now scheduled to start the next Kyn book in May. Maybe. Because, like every writer, I am afflicted with new ideas, ideas I want to explore. Unfortunately my “scheduled” writing makes me worry about taking that time to follow through.

Sigh. You’d think I’d have learned by now, but no, because I’m ON. A. SCHEDULE.

But…there’s this idea digging in, and it’s not letting go. It’s a story, and the only weapons I have as a writer are stories, my stories.

My schedule may have to be adjusted.

I leave you with another of Rachelle’s pearls of wisdom:

“What writer doesn’t want to be read? Everyone wants recognition or a pat on the back or even someone to scream, “I hated your characters. Kill them off.” Who wants to yell into a vacuum? I mean, if a book is unread, does it mean it doesn’t exist? So do what you have to get discovered. Write lots of books, hang out, socialize, and take feedback. Then let it go. You can only affect how well you can be discovered, not whether you’ll be read.

*raising a mug of coffee* Here, here, Rachelle.

*Rachelle Ayala’s post can be found here: http://www.rachelleayala.com/2015/03/what-i-learned-after-four-years-of.html

Releasing the Saftey Line #writerlife #misconceptions

*Deep breath, brushing nervous hands over jeans* I don’t normally make a deliberate decision to step into hot topics. Like many, I was warned to avoid topics of politics, religion, and sex if I wanted to escape social interactions unscathed. Being fairly open-minded, I tend to keep my opinions on heavily discussed topics (of which I have many), to myself. So far I’ve done pretty good. Today, I’m going to skirt that edge because there is a misconception out there which has found a way to burrow under my mental skin, causing cuts of self-doubt.

Insecurity exists in each of us, there is no way to avoid it. It helps drive us up and over hurdles plunked in front of us by a merciless hand of Fate. It’s the crux of determination, without it you wouldn’t push yourself to accomplish what others tell you can’t be done.

I am not exempt. At all.

I’ve been seeing a huge discussion rise about writers, specifically women writers, following a “hobby” with their chosen career path, because their big, manly husbands are carrying their family’s financial security.

*honestly stunned* What the hell, peeps?

Not the manly husband aspect (mine fits), but carrying our families’ financial security because “we want to indulge in a hobby”? Are they really that uninformed? Granted, the biggest crock came out of a mouth use to causing issues, but much like when you’re on a diet and suddenly everyone’s eating chocolate, the echoes of this nonsense kept getting my attention.

Writing is not easy.  It is not a hobby. It is a CAREER. It is WORK. Writers–female or male–don’t make writing their career lightly. They’re the brave ones, the ones to be lauded for their courage. Even their families deserve a round of applause. It’s just as hard to give the one you love a chance to rise or fall on their own, while your family is buckled in for the ride.

I’ve spent the last twenty plus years in the corporate hamster wheel, where 60-70 hour weeks were the norm, office politics were trickier than a seeded minefield, and game playing was a necessary survival skill. While I danced my way through, I decided to replenish my soul with something that was solely mine, my writing. In 2011 I published my first novel, and by the end of this year I’m hoping to have my sixth out. By no means has my writing come close to replacing my “professional” job, but the dream existed. However, so long as I had the security of being able to be an equal partner with my Knight in our family finances, I wasn’t inclined to give up the “professional” aspect.

Until I was politely laid-off  after 18 years of service, and came to the realization I no longer wanted to put that much effort into something or someone who could give a crap less.

My Knight, being the manly man he is, sat down with me and we began to talk. We discussed our finances, our family, our boys, our goals, and then my brilliant beloved said, “We have a little bit of breathing room. What do you want to do that will make you happy?”

I opened my mouth to answer, “Write”, only to close it. I was already writing, being laid-off wouldn’t change that, and like most writers, I know that sales don’t magically appear on your doorstep with an oversized check. Writing is work, but the rewards take time–marathon vs. sprint, peeps.

Which meant I needed something else, another avenue to generate an income. Not equal to what I was making, but enough to live. So, I turned to a lifelong passion I’d just begun to indulge in–editing. Freelance editing, to be exact. Discussions abounded, a partnership struck, a business plan developed, a marketing strategy set in place, and I unhooked the safety line of a guaranteed paycheck and leapt into the wild unknown.

Am I scared? Oh, hell yeah, I’m shaking in my damn shoes. Success, or failure, is all on me, no big bad to point fingers at later, just little ol’ me.

Not to say I’m putting all my eggs in one basket, I have a deadline for determining if this will work or not. In the meantime, I’m passing around my “professional” resume.

Am I relying on my husband’s financial contributions for our family? No more than I was when I had a scheduled paycheck coming in, but we both know the ROI (return on investment) won’t show for the next few months.

Doesn’t mean in the darkest hours of night, while I’m staring at the shadow covered ceiling unable to sleep, I’m doubting myself and my choices. I’m haunted by the nasty voice of my insecurities who mutter, “Do you have the right to take this risk?” or even worse, “You think this is a job? You’ve been writing for years, look how much that’s gotten you. What makes this different?”

As they laughingly circle, there’s a kernel of furious determination fighting back.

Yeah, I do deserve the chance to find out if I can do it on my own. If I’m going to put 70 plus hours in a week, it’ll be because it’s for me, my company. You try to tell me something can’t be done (You’ll never get published–You’re too old to be adopted–Odds are against you having a normal, loving relationship–You can’t start a successful business after forty), and I’m going to shove your ass into a chair and say, “Watch me.”

 

 

DESTINY MINE’s Nana Prah Asks, How Hot Do You Like Your Scenes? #DestinyMineBookTour #multiculturalrom #romance

The beautiful and talented, Nana Prah is here today, and she has her latest romance release in her Destiny Series, DESTINY MINE, in tow. Now, I don’t gush (much) about my friends, but she is one of mine that I love to help support (and not just because she makes me blush about my own works). Nana’s writing will keep you hooked from the get go. Although she’s setting her baby (DESTINY MINE) lose upon the world, she’s asking an important question many writers (myself included) wonder about:  How hot do you need your romance? 

Before I turn it over to Nana, I must share the intriguing, DESTINY MINE:

Extraordinary midwife, Esi Darfour, is looking to get married.  She’s a master matchmaker but has no luck when it comes to her love life and has yet to find a man worthy of her. Until she has to deal with gorgeous Dr. Adam Quarshie outside of work.

Adam is a player who refuses to get married—ever. His interest lies more in getting her into bed than in having any kind of committed relationship. Esi’s matchmaker instincts warn her to run in the other direction as quickly as possible, but her heart insists she stay…get closer…and see if what they feel for each other can change his mind.

I know that I’m supposed to be bragging all about myself and my latest book, Destiny Mine, but I have to let you all know just how much I LOVE Jami’s work. I’m addicted to her Kyn Kronicles. I pretty much harass her for the next story once I’ve read the previous one. She can’t write them fast enough for me.

The last time I was on Jami’s blog I did an interview so I thought I’d change it up a bit and write a post sharing my experience with writing a sex scene.

My latest release, Destiny Mine has a sex scene in it. My first three published novels were sweet. There’s only one reason why I decided to open the door.

My characters were gagging for it.

First of all Adam is a man who’s had a lot of sex in his life. A lot. A man whore who gives it away for free (I love him, but I have to be honest). A blazingly handsome man who exudes charm and a bit (okay a lot) of arrogance. And yet he has this soft spot in his personality that will make your heart melt.

Esi is a spitfire. She’s passionate about life, not only hers, but the ones she escorts safely into the world as a midwife. She lives life with gusto because she knows how fleeting it is.

So what happens when you put a spunky intelligent woman with a hot sex loving guy? Yup. The answer is full on intercourse. It wasn’t as difficult to write as I thought it might be. My intention was to make it different, and that occurred naturally because of the personalities of the characters.

Will I write another book with sex in it? Let’s just say that writing a sex scene is like eating a potato chip. You can’t write just one.

Do you prefer a romance with or without sex scenes?

Don’t forget to take part in my Rafflecopter Giveaway, where you could win a $20 Smashword or All Romance eBooks gift card!

 a Rafflecopter giveaway

I know you want to find out what happens next, so please click any of the following links for your copy:

AMAZON     Barnes&Noble    All Romance eBooks (ARe)   iBooks    Smashwords

Nana Prah is a multi-published author of contemporary, multicultural romance. Her books are sweet with a touch of spice. When she’s not writing she’s reading, indulging in chocolate, and enjoying life with friends and family.

If you want to connect, reach out to Nana…

Blog : www.nanaprah.blogspot.com           Twitter: @NanaPrah

Facebook: Nana Prah, Author                      Goodreads: Nana Prah

Google + :  Nana Prah

Need an Editor? Need Two? Check Out Wicked Dragon Solutions #editing #editors #WickedDragon

If you’ve been following me for the last month, you’ll remember how my corporate road came to an abrupt end last month. While it may not sound like something to celebrate, it did provide me an opportunity to strike on and blaze my own professional trail. I’m not one to sit around, so I partnered up with my co-conspirator, Amber Kallyn, and we began planning our latest adventure.

On April 1st (no, not an April Fool’s joke), we will be opening our virtual doors to our writer friends and ushering them inside Wicked Dragon Writer Solutions, where you can get two editing beasts for one smoking price! 

 

Between Amber and I, we have 13 hard-won years of word crafting experience, not just in published work, but in editing for other authors. While we’ve been doing this without gathering our fees, we decided it was time to put our pens to work for us. We know how vital editors are to Creators of the Written Word, and what’s better than one editor? How about two editors putting their eyes to the jewlers loop to examine your precious treasure, and you’ll only be out the gold for the price of one. Think of it as an Editorial BOGO (buy-one-get-one-free).

Feel free to come on over and check us over at Wicked Dragon Writer Solutions (www.wickeddragonsolutions.com)! Doors officially open April 1st, but if you’re anxious to start your epic journey, feel free to reach out to wickeddragonsolutions@gmail.com and we’ll get you set for your editing adventure.

 

What’s your Pink Elephant? #writing #writingtells

Are you scratching your head yet? Good. In a recent discuss with my fellow writing geeks, it was brought to my attention that I have a unique tell in my writing. If I submitted a story, so long as this was part of it, they would go, “Ah-ha! This is Jami’s piece.”  Further ribbing discussion revealed I wasn’t the only one with this little habit. Oh no, we managed to pinpoint a unique fingerprint in each story. I have decided to name this phenomena, the Pink Elephant.

The Pink Elephant can be a person, place or thing, or even phrase. (Yes, I realize this is not a game of Charades). Mine can be traced back to my obsession with HGTV and the Property Brothers. You see, in every book, someone, somewhere owns a *drumroll please* Flat screen TV. Not some measly little thirty two inch either. Oh no, we go for the gusto. It’s always a “large” flat screen TV. Because being able to see the on screen action from any room is a must.

When this was first pointed out, I came back with, “No I don’t.” because my inner five year old just couldn’t believe it. Sure enough, it was proven time and time again. And because the competitive curious spirit moved me, I  discovered my fellow word slinger tended to express his love of all things related to the big, shiny, red apple, in his stories by peppering  i this and i that with flagrant abandon.

Hmmm, coincidence? Perhaps but let’s move on to our next contestant…why lookie here, her love of all things plush has created Pink Elephants of overstuffed couches. No room is complete without the luxury of being able to sink into a couch cushion. Her characters tooshies must be supported by many layers of fluffiness. Uh…

And our find contender, what was her Pink Elephant? It wasn’t hard to identify, not at all. Right before her heroine headed off to face down the big baddies of the world, she’d ensure to fuel up first with a nice homemade meal. Feeling a little discouraged you couldn’t fight off that soul sucking demon without losing a sidekick? Have a nice cupcake, it’ll make you feel better. Still hungry? There’s a nice hand tossed salad in the fridge, help yourself while I get rid of this pesky ghost.

Now that you, too, can identify Pink Elephants, what’s yours?

 

When Characters Have Had Enough #writing #storyarc #writingtips

I’m finishing up TOUCHED BY FATE before sending it off to be polished and prettied for consumption, and as this is my sixth book, you would think I’d know better than to try to force my characters to do what I want, right?

*sigh* Okay, so I’m a slow learner.

I’ve mentioned I’m not much of an outliner, which is mostly true. I use signposts, big, obvious ones that state “They shall walk in on a bloody corpse here” or “They must be ambushed here”. So what happens when my characters don’t agree with my signposts? When they decide to redesign it in their own, personal graffiti?

Stubborn writer meet even more pig headed characters. *sound of boulders colliding*

I had the last third of the story figured, main points at least. I even started this book saying the seer will see her death at the hands of her lover. I shall never again presume to know what my characters will or will not see/do/say.  Risia took issue with this, and when I didn’t listen, she decided to make me listen.

First, the story kept stalling. The scenes weren’t working. It was too stilted, too contrived, and I was getting downright pissed. I finally had time to dedicate to pounding out some serious word count and THE WORDS WOULDN’T COME. What the hell is up with that? Then, she kept twisting things around until I was sure she’d see her death at my hands.

I slammed around, throwing things at both Risia and Tag, determined to get them where I needed them to be. Risia smirked, and Tag kept ducking while muttering, “WTF?”  When my temper tantrum died down, I realized a new player had hit the pages, with his own agenda, and his own way of ensuring he got what he wanted.

And my idea of one of the bigger stumbling blocks for Tag and Risia, shifted under all of our feet, turning over to show a different outcome. Funny thing, suddenly the remaining path of our story readjusted into a clear road, and I’m able to gun the gas without puttering to a stop.

So what happened? Somewhere along the writing line I forgot to stay true to letting my characters tell the story, versus making them fit the story. Our job as the writer, is to ensure we throw our characters into situations where they will either rise and shine, or go down in a flaming ball of glory, because their evolution is vital to our story. There is no getting around that. If your characters don’t evolve, if they don’t take chances or risks, they can’t fail, can’t triumph, can’t learn, can’t grow. Which means they might as well be Flat Stanley’s.

For Tag and Risia’s story, I needed to put Risia in an unenviable position, you know the one, the fabled Rock and Hard Place. By doing this in a natural way that rises from her current situation versus creating an artificial one, she ends up dragging Tag into his own Rock and Hard Place. Now, they have to figure out their escape routes–whether individually or in tandem, that’s where your story gets interesting. Which is why you really should let your character led. They know what it will take to push them over the edge or drop them into the deepest pit, and they know what they need to do, to become who they must.

 

And Tag and Risia, well, they may not like me right now, but I know the destination will be worth the ride.

Unexpected Changes May Lead to Daring Choices #change #writing

Be careful what you wish for.  We’ve all heard it, and most of us can probably point out numerous occasions where this well polished adage proved true. After a very tumultuous (hey, I’m a writer, I like my descriptive words) end to 2014, I had considered my obstacle strewn path fairly safe to proceed forward. Last week, a big, ol’ giant boulder plummeted right smack in front of me. The stomach dropping words of “workforce reduction” left me choking in the dust.

Eighteen years with the same organization. Thirty years of never, not having a job (yes, I realize what a huge blessing that is), and suddenly I find myself–unemployed. It’s a very strange feeling, similar to the free fall fear when I step out to do something really scary.

After the initial shock wore off (three hours later), my need to keep things safe for me and mine kicked in. No time for administering chocolate first aid. Healthcare was switched, bills were re-evaluated and reduced where possible, and unemployment was filed.  Day two, up before dawn, get the Prankster Duo out the door and on their way, get the Knight off to battle his dragons, and then I scampered into my office and spent the morning revamping my resume and cover letter, reaching out to old colleagues and scouring the job boards.

Resumes sent, I came up for air in the afternoon, took a breath and realized I could spend the next few hours catching up on word count. Done. By evening of day two, my mental chaos was settling and plans were in initial stages.

I know the Big Man Upstairs doesn’t do things without good reason, and I’m trusting Him to help me forge my path here. When I finally let myself deal with what had happened, I cycled through the anger at the way my organization handled things, admitting that this is how the current corporate environment works, and logically understanding what has happened to cause this reaction. While my stomach churned at this sudden change, there was also a weird sense of relief.

For the last couple of years, my writing has become more and more important to me. However, I had a job that pays the bills, I was contributing to my family’s financial security and helping Knight shoulder the responsibility of our family. To suddenly shift that to him and give myself permission to dare reach for a “dream” wasn’t something I could comfortably do without risking my job.

Obviously, someone was listening and decided to nudge me (rather abruptly) out of my rut of comfortable safety. Now, as hard as this circumstance change may sound, I have to admit, the timing was the best we could hope for. Between the severance package and the fact our family had been preparing for the worse for the last six months, I actually have some breathing room to reach out and see if I can make what makes me happy, support my family.

Now, I know you’re all thinking, “You’re going to write full time.” Um, well yeah, but that’s not it. I’ve always written, that won’t change, but I need something else to take place of the job-that-pays-the-bills. So I’m going to keep this stomach churning edge and I’m going to start something else that I will allow me to make what I love, my career. I’m stepping into editing.

Scary as this is to strike out on my own with no safety net, I’m not doing this alone. Remember that whole thing about timing? Seems I’m not the only one at a crossroads. My partner in crime and I are in the initial stages, but since we complement each other in our editing styles, we’re going to offer writers 2 editors for the price of 1. The business plan is in the initial stages and we’ve set a deadline for expected results, which means the next few weeks will be quite hectic.

However, because I recognize the risks, I’m still out there submitting resumes and exploring other job opportunities. While I understand the nerve wracking journey I’m about to begin, I’m also not one to put all my eggs in one basket. However, I’m trusting the Big Guy to know more than me, and I’ll wander through this door and see what it brings. Stay tuned and I’ll keep you posted on what happens next.  

The Almost Kiss, part of the Almost Kiss, No Kiss blogfest #nokissblogest #shadowscurse

Let’s start the new year off right. Today we’re taking part in the Almost Kiss, No Kiss blog fest.  You know what I’m talking about…that scene you read that gets your pulse racing, anticipation firing numerous warning shots, but instead of the expected follow through, the scene veres to left or right or a completely unknown path. That’s what we’re celebrating and you can join by clicking on the picture above to find more heart pounding near kisses, or the link here:

No Kiss Blog Fest

As January 17th is almost around the corner, I thought I’d share a peek into the fourth Kyn installment, SHADOW’S CURSE before it debuts. May I give you Natasha and Darius….

Natasha stopped in front of the fire and the minor question disappeared like smoke. Those slim shoulders dropped, and she dragged a hand through her white-blonde curtain of hair, leaving it a tumbled mess. One his fingers itched to dive into. She turned her head, the firelight lining her profile with dancing shadows. Unexpected lust spiraled through Darius, his body hardening.

Her lips held a soft curl. “Are you going to watch me all night?”

He blinked as her question sank in. Releasing his hold on the concealing shadows, he faced her. “How long?”

Those blue eyes deepened into an inky mystery as they traveled over his loose, low-slung pants and bare chest. He reacted to the caress of her gaze as if it was a physical touch. His blood running hot and thick, need coming up on point. When their stares finally locked, he found an answering desire flickering in her depths. Her pink tongue swept out over her bottom lip. A nervous tic or deliberate provocation? Did it really matter?

“Before I dialed Rio.” Her voice was a husky rasp.

It took his brain a second to catch up. He gave himself a metaphoric head slap. Get your head in the game, ass! He prowled closer until he stood inches from her. She held her position, her face in profile above her shoulder, watching him from under those thick, dark lashes. Her unique fragrance of night blooming jasmine laced with feminine heat drifted to him. Keeping his hands at his side, he dipped his head and drew the scent deep into his lungs. His mark lay like a faint bruise against her alabaster skin, a temptation he choose not to ignore. He pressed the lightest of kisses to it, inordinately pleased with the rapid rise and fall of her chest. Lifting his head, he held her bemused gaze. “You didn’t give him my name.”

Her throat worked as she swallowed. “Rumors fly faster than light, he may find you out soon.”

“Perhaps.” He searched her face, taking in the light rose under her cheeks, the widening of her eyes and the small pants as she fought for air. He’d like to capture those lips and plunder until she could only breathe what he shared with her. The overly possessive urge had him straightening with a jerk and stepping back. The attraction between them was…uncomfortable.

Under his skin, his demon hissed and clawed, furious at what the man was denying them both. He shook his head sharply. No, fucking this woman would only complicate an already difficult situation. Needing to regain control, he struck out, using the tools at his disposal. “Do you think seducing me will keep you safe?”

She stiffened, then deliberately turned fully towards him with haughty grace. Her rising signs of desire disappeared under a cold, mocking mask, her eyes flashing as her lips curled in contempt. “May I remind you, you invaded my bedroom, Mr. Abazi.” Ice dripped from her words. “Is that normal for one of the Order? Do you normally whore yourself out for the Council?”

Her vicious implication shredded his tenuous control. Before he could rethink the wisdom of his actions, he had her curvy body plastered against his front. Those red tipped nails bit against the skin of his chest, his erection cradled against her stomach while his hand tangled in the platinum mass as he held her captive. “No more than you’d whore yourself for your precious houses,” he growled, before taking her mouth with a barely leashed savagery. No gentleness, only pure lust and need swirling in a savage storm. He ravaged with punishing intent, small bites and rapacious tongue, unwilling to give her room to escape. She met him with equal heat and passion. Hunger began to edge out his fury, allowing him to fill the sting of her nails as they raked against his chest. He loosened his grip, allowing her to yank out of his hold.

He looked down, unsurprised to find bloody gouges scoring his skin. His animalistic side took satisfaction in the sight. He lifted his head in time to catch the tail end of her wiping the back of her hand over her swollen mouth. The wavering image of her demon hovered around her like a barely remembered dream.

She faced him, her hands fisted at her side, chest heaving. “Touch me again, Abazi and I’ll shred your balls into confetti,” she hissed.

He smiled and crossed his arms over his chest, ignoring his still seeping wounds. “Challenging me isn’t in your best interests, darling, but you’re welcome to try.”

Those lips thinned and the feral hiss was all that escaped. His smile widened. Rendering her speechless was quite rewarding, but it didn’t last long. Regrettably, she pulled herself together much faster than he liked, the revealing mirage of her demon whisked away, leaving the controlled corporate maven behind. “I have no intention of challenging you.”

He raised an unbelieving eyebrow. “What intentions do you harbor?”

She studied him, her thoughts well shielded. “I intend to uncover who’s setting me up, regardless of who’s pulling the strings.”

“And then?”

Her smile was all predator. “Then, I’ll remind them of what happens to those who go against me.”

“Even if it brings you and yours unwanted attention?” he pushed.

Her chin lifted. “It’s never smart to rattled the cage of a beast you can’t handle. Something someone’s forgotten.”

He titled his head in wry acknowledgement.

She strolled to the door and pulled it open. “Get out.” A tremor ran through the low words. Fury or fear, he wasn’t sure.

Knowing if he pushed her any further, one or both of them would pay for it. Perhaps in flesh and blood. He strolled to the door, only to stop in front of her. He raised a finger and drew it down her pale jaw, impressed when she didn’t visibly react. “You asked Rio a question.”

Stiff and unbending, she held her tongue.

“Would you like an answer?” He caught the flicker of unease she tried to hide. “You are being hunted, Natasha.”

Hope I managed to snag your interest! You can get all of Natasha and Darius’s story January 17th when SHADOW’S CURSE hits shelves.  Until then, go forth and enjoy some really intriguing reads with the Almost Kiss, No Kiss blog fest...

 

2015 is coming…. #newyear #goals

I’m watching 2014 disappear on the horizon with a huge sigh of….relief? frustration? melancholy?  Maybe all three? Yeah, probably all three. 2014 was a tough year all around for our clan. Lots of change, heart breaking loss, and ending the year celebrating a joyful marriage of two beautiful souls. A roller coaster ride for sure.

So before 2015 steps on stage, I’m taking stock and prepping for the new year. While the last few months have taken a toll on my writing (yes, I’m behind on where I’d hoped to be on the second book of the PSY-IV series), it’s time to get back in the saddle and pony up.  Like many out there, the arrival of the new year means it’s time for me to set new goals, with a renewed sense of purpose.

First up, focus more on writing, and try marketing wisely–not everywhere all the time, but where it may do the most good. Of course, I’m not the best on marketing, but I’ll keep working on it. However, the best marketing I can do is to write the next book. So here’s to sticking to my two books a year plan.

Finding that delicate balance between work/family/writing that every writer struggles with. Wouldn’t it be great if that famous magic wand really existed? Much easier to swish that balance into being, than constantly readjusting my balance. It’s those little things life throws at you, that tend to tip the scales to much one way.

Taking time to just enjoy time with my family.  This is huge, for all of us. That old saying about time flying by, it’s spot on. My Prankster Duo will both be in high school this year and the countdown until they start their own journeys is starting to drown out all others.  I want to create memories we can all carry through the years.

So do you have your goals set? Are you ready when 2015 comes knocking? I’m hoping to be able to offer 2015 tea and crumpets (whatever those are, but I think we have some Oreos around here) and start the year off right.

By the way, you have to come back on Jan. 2nd because we are taking part in the Almost Kiss, No Kiss Blog fest. You don’t want to miss out, plus start the year off write with some great reads!