BETRAYED LAUNCH PARTY

BETRAYED IS FINALLY OUT! The launch party for it was a blast - lots of excellent costumes - my lovely tarot reader was there - yummy snacks - and, of course, exellent coffee (the launch party was at The Blend, a locally owned coffee shop). Thanks to all the fabulous fans who attended. A special thanks to Don and Ann Maire for sending the fun pictures!

Kristin and me!


Us with Bryan "Dragon" Lankford who surprised us by coming all the way from Dallas!


Amber Taylor (one of my nutty students!)


Laura Shepard (another of my nutty students)


Don's lovely wife, Vickie.

Betrayed: Book Trailer

Even better than the last one!

VAMP RELEASE MONTH PART II

So...response to Marianne and her YA vamps was fabulous! Vamp release number two is the amazing Rachel Caine and MIDNIGHT ALLEY.


Check her out - and remember, if you comment, you might win! I'll announce winners SATURDAY.

Hi, I’m Rachel Caine, author of a young adult series called THE MORGANVILLE VAMPIRES. The latest book, MIDNIGHT ALLEY, is coming out on October 2, and I’m very excited to welcome you back, if you’re already a Morganville resident, or if not, give you the Visitor’s Tour!

Morganville, Texas is a small, dusty town in the middle of nowhere – it has a not-very-good college, and not much else to recommend it. But Morganville hides a drastic secret … because it’s the last safe haven for vampires. In fact, the town was founded by vampires. Vampires are the shadow government – and the not-so-shadowy rules of the human population, sometimes interacting directly, sometimes staying apart.

It’s like the Mafia, with fangs.

Claire Danvers, who was all set to head off to a glorious Ivy League early admission, has been forced to attend Texas Prairie University in Morganville … a “safe place” until she comes of age, at least according to her parents. But her parents don’t know just how dangerous things are. Claire’s made a lot of enemies in town – some accidentally, some deliberately – and she’s also made some very powerful allies, including the biggest, baddest vampire in town, the Founder Amelie.

Now, in MIDNIGHT ALLEY, Claire is being asked to take on a new job as an assistant to a secret, very dangerous vampire … one who holds the secrets to everything in Morganville. She’s balancing that with keeping her boyfriend Shane and friends Michael and Eve out of trouble, making her classes, and keeping her parents from becoming even more suspicious about her Morganville lifestyle. But the new job is going to be both seductive and even more deadly than she’s been told … and all of Morganville is at stake.

You can check out the entire Morganville experience in GLASS HOUSES, THE DEAD GIRLS’ DANCE, and this new release, MIDNIGHT ALLEY. I’ve also got short stories out on my website at www.rachelcaine.com/morganville!

Comment below to win signed copies of all three Morganville books!

YOUNG ADULT VAMP RELEASE MONTH!

October is definitely the Month of the Paranormal, so it's no big surprise that YA publishers have chosen October as the month to release several kick ass vampire/vampyre novels. I'm going to give you guys a heads up on some of the best, as well as a chance to win signed copies from the fabulous authors.

First up is the amazing Marianne Mancusi. Check her out and comment in for a chance to win a copy of her entire BOYS THAT BITE trilogy!



Hi all,
I’m Mari Mancusi and I’m your guest blogger today, here to talk a little bit about my teen vampire series from Berkley Jam (Boys that Bite, Stake That!, Girls that Growl) and about the vampire society I created when writing the books. I will also be giving away copies of the entire trilogy to a commenter, so be sure to tell me what you think! I’ll be stopping by to answer any questions, too.

In BOYS THAT BITE, all sixteen year old Rayne McDonald wanted in life was to become a vampire. She networked, got on the waiting list, even took her vampire certification class (which required some heavy homework.) But on the night she was supposed to be bitten and made undead, her intended Blood Mate, Magnus, accidentally bit her identical twin sister Sunny instead. Sunny had no idea, up until this point, that vampires even existed, and was so not pleased to be informed that she would now be turning into one a week before prom.

Poor Rayne’s luck doesn’t get much better in Book #2, STAKE THAT!. She’s informed by her school’s drama teacher (who also happens to be VP of Slayer Inc) that she’s the one in her generation destined to become--not a vampire, but a vampire slayer. Her first assignment? To get into a seedy blood bar downtown and slay its owner, a baddie vamp named Maverick. Luckily, she has help in the form of brooding, emo vampire Jareth.

In book #3, GIRLS THAT GROWL, our Goth heroine Rayne gets a new assignment—her toughest yet. To infiltrate the ranks of her high school cheerleading squad! Some football players have gone missing and the cheerleaders have been heard, well, growling.

A lot of people have compared my series to Buffy the Vampire Slayer and I would definitely say I was influenced by Joss Whedon’s brilliance. But while the humor may be similar, the vampire world I created is very different than his. My vampires are high tech and organized and most of them are good—mingling with humans and getting blood from specially tested paid Blood Donors, instead of running around biting and killing people. They don’t like garlic and crosses, but have no problem with mirrors. They can regenerate quickly when injured, except when infected by tainted blood. They can’t go out in the sunshine and live in massive underground crypts hidden below cemeteries. They are extremely rich and hold many prominent positions around the world.

When Rayne decided she wanted to become a vampire, she had to go through a ton of testing and take certification classes. Once she was approved, the Council had to find her a Blood Mate with compatible DNA. A Blood Mate is kind of like a soul mate, who agrees to share his or her blood with the vampire-to-be and become partners with them for eternity.

I hope you will get a chance to check out the series. Book 1, BOYS THAT BITE, was released in May 2006 and was a YALSA Quick Pick for Reluctant Young Adult Readers. Book 2, STAKE THAT!, came out in December 2006. And now, we continue the story with GIRLS THAT GROWL, out this week!! For more information, visit me at www.boysthatbite.com or friend me on MySpace at www.myspace.com/marimancusi.

Comment below to win the entire trilogy!

CELEBRATE BANNED BOOKS WEEK AND IRONY

According to the ALA (American Library Association) and the Office for Intellectual Freedom, Sept 29 - Oct 6 is the 26th anniversary of Banned Books Week. Check out the list of the 100 most frequently challenged books:

http://www.ala.org/ala/oif/bannedbooksweek/bbwlinks/100mostfrequently.htm

Yes, I do aspire to join that list.

I am passionate about the individual's right to read and write what he or she chooses. As the fabulous Ray Bradbury said in one of my all time favorite books, FAHRENHEIT 451, "You don't have to burn books to destroy a culture. Just get people to stop reading them."

So, ready for some irony? Next week (during Banned Books Week) is the launch of BETRAYED, the second in the young adult House of Night series I co-author with my daughter. We're having the launch party at The Blend, a locally owned coffee shop in downtown Broken Arrow. Yesterday I dropped off a poster and a book to the lovely owner of the shop, Sheri. She said, "You would not believe the phone call I just had." And proceeded to tell me about an asshat man who called and felt the need to inform her that she should know P.C. Cast writes "soft porn" (huh? really?). Lovely Sheri asked if he'd ever read any of my books. As per typical for those kind of people, he hadn't, but he'd been to my website. (again, huh? my website is soft porn?) Sadly, Sheri actually tried to reason with him and explain that I don't write "soft porn," but that my books with adult sexual content are written for ADULTS. My YA books are a whole different world. Again, as per typical, he made a threat about telling people what kind of place she was running...bluster...bully...blah...blah... Sheri hung up on him (obviously not soon enough).

MR. ASSHAT - IF YOU'RE SKULKING ABOUT ON MY BLOG, GET THIS - THIS IS AMERICA AND YOU DO NOT GET TO CHOOSE FOR US WHAT WE READ AND WRITE, AND WHAT OUR CHILDREN READ AND WRITE. IT'S AN INDIVIDUAL CHOICE. IF YOU DON'T LIKE MY WORK (or don't think you do, you can't actually have an informed opinion unless you READ what you're trying to ban others from reading) DON'T BUY IT.

As for me - I open every school year teaching TO KILL A MOCKINGBIRD to my sophomores. Please note it's on the banned books list.

BETRAYED Review

(www.huntressreviews.com)



Thought I'd share a lovely Huntress Review for BETRAYED. Thank you Detra!

TITLE: Betrayed
AUTHORS: P.C. Cast & Kristin Cast
13 ISBN: 9780312360283
10 ISBN: 0312360282


5 STARS!


Zoey "Z" Redbird is a fledgling vampyre. She has managed to finally settle in at the House of Night finishing school. Z has been Chosen by the vampyre goddess, Nyx, and she has already kicked vampyre ghost butt. Yet still Zoey has a strange feeling something is wrong, like the stillness before a tornado or storm.

Zoey's Imprint with Heath remains and she still finds herself caring for the mortal teenager. The mutual attraction between Z and Erik, also a fledgling, remains as well. Yet Zoey is finding herself intrigued by Loren Blake as well. Loren is a part-time, temporary professor (of poetry class) at the academy. Zoey is sure he cannot be more than five or six years older than she, however, relationships between students and teachers are prohibited.

Zoey is about to conduct her first Full Moon Ritual as leader of the Dark Daughters and Sons. Zoey's life is full and she has little alone time for herself. It soon becomes apparent that she better make some time for a new problem. People Zoey knew from her prior human life are disappearing. When and where their bodies are eventually found, as well as the cause of deaths, point to the House of Night. To save all the humans and vampyres she cares for, Zoey must face a betrayal that could break her heart, if not her very soul. May Nyx protect her!

***** If you have not read the first book, MARKED, then I highly suggest you do so before beginning this title. If you do not, you will still be able to understand what is going on; however, you will not be privy to some references of Zoey's adventurous past and markings. Believe me when I say this series could be categorized as either Young Adult or Fantasy. It does not matter if you are male or female, this series will enthrall you against your will. Authors P.C. Cast and Kristin Cast are a dangerous writing duo with poisonous pens. Highly recommended.



HUNTRESS REVIEWS
(Reviewed by Detra Fitch)

On-line read! DARKNESS BETRAYED

To coincide with the release of DIVINE BY BLOOD, LUNA is publishing DARKNESS BETRAYED, which is an on-line read posted chapter-by-chapter daily (STARTING TODAY!) for twenty chapters. DARKNESS BETRAYED is set fifty years before the events of DIVINE BY MISTAKE, and it tells the story of how the Fomorians, Nuada in particular, take over Guardian Castle. It's also a love story - a very surprising one at that. Okay, this is how you get to it - and, yes, it is FREE. Go to www.eharlequin.com. You'll have to sign in, but that's no big deal - they won't sell your babies or anything. Then click on the TALK bubble towards the bottom of the page. Look on the right side of your screen and click on the LUNA link. You'll see the link for the on-line read of DARKNESS BETRAYED from there. Check it out, and please let me know what you think. Here's the teaser:

Daily Online Read: Darkness Betrayed by P.C. Cast
Though Aine knows it is her destiny to be Guardian Castle’s Healer, she just can’t get used to the stark surroundings and dreary people.

Go back in time, fifty years before the events of author P.C. Cast’s Partholon books…read Darkness Betrayed

Aine longs for the beauty of Partholon. Her only companion in her new home is a centaur huntress, Maev, another outsider. But when Maev is involved in what the warriors call an accident, Aine begins to realize there may be evil forces at work in the castle! And when she is led by her Goddess to an injured winged man—one of the Fomorians Guardian Castle was built to protect against--Aine is forced to make a life-altering choice…

New Obsession

I admit to being behind on several things. First, my TBR pile is daunting and alluring - it teases me constantly. I'm in the middle of the last Potter right now, with Eclipse waiting for me after that. And then I openly admit that I came to the Buffy/Angel obsession late and watched all seasons of both shows on DVD in one big, obsessed rush. Joss Whedon owes me many hours of my life back. And now I've discovered SMALLVILLE. How could I have missed this show? I am Superman's girl, and have been since I read all of the Freeman boys' comics up in their game room when I was, uh, let's see...probably 9-13. I discovered Superman, Swampthing, Thor, Fantastic 4, and the Hulk. I swear those summers of reading with those boys twisted me into the author I am today. And now Smallville! I had never watched it, but bought the first season after watching the first 4 episodes. So what is it about the Superman Mistique that hits so many of us so hard? Is it his honesty - his vulnerbility - or his tall hotness and that damn gorgeous mouth? I really wish Superman wasn't so stringently copyrighted because I would LOVE to bring in a real woman of today for him to fall in love with. Hum...perhaps I should give my agent a call and test the waters...it's about time there was a Superman romance, don't ya think?

ALMOST A HERO - DONE!

I finished the mansucript this weekend (YEA!!!), just in time to enjoy the gorgeous art work Berkley sent for it, my next Goddess Summoning Book, ALMOST A HERO. Check out Achilles! Love this one! And no, I don't have a clue why everything looks all blue when I attached it here. It really has a hystorical look to it and isn't blue at all. Very, very weird. But at least you can get hint of what it's going to look like (just take out the blue!).

New Reviews

Thought you guys would like to check out some new reviews. Enjoy!


http://ck2skwipsandkritiques.com/divinebyblood_debbie.html
http://ck2skwipsandkritiques.com/divinebychoice_debbie.html
http://ck2skwipsandkritiques.com/goddessoflove_debbie.html

WE MADE THE NY POST!

This morning I was thrilled to discover that MARKED has been included in a POST POTTER PICKS roundup by the NY POST! Here's the link to the article:
http://www.nypost.com/seven/08182007/entertainment/post_potter_picks_entertainment_maxine_shen.htm

Or if you just want the "most important" part, gaze upon the beauty of this excerpt:

Vampire fans should also check out “Marked” (St. Martin’s Griffin), the first of the “House of Nights” novels written by the mother-daughter team P.C. and Kristin Cast. They introduce a world where vampire mythology mixes with magic when 16-year-old Zoey Redbird enters a boarding school for fledgling vampires and goes up against the psychic leader of the Dark Daughters, who’s misusing her powers.

The second book in the six-part series, “Betrayed,” is out on Oct. 2, with the third book, “Chosen,” due in March.


Yea for THE HOUSE OF NIGHT!

Now, back to deadline hell. Almost finished with the latest Goddess Summoning Book, newly titled ALMOST A HERO. It'll be out May 08 if I don't slit my wrists from struggling with its conclusion...

Very Cool...

Lovely reader and firefighter Chris Barton sent me this great photo. Thought I'd pass it along to y'all...

Check out Shomi

Yes, yes, yes - I know there was a big kerfuffle about "costumes" at this year's RWA. I've gone back and forth with myself about the issue. On one hand I do absolutely lurve costuming. RT and the vamp ball? Lots of fun - I'll dress up in an instant. Y'all who know me know beyond any doubt that I'm up for a good time and I tend to walk outside the norm. I saw Marianne and Liz at RWA and just thought "Huh, wonder what's up with that?" I wasn't scandalized or shocked. My twenty year old daughter and co-author of our YA series was with me, and when someone said "Shomi - they must be dressing up to support their new line" Kristin went, "Ohhhh..." and filled me in. Okey-dokey.

I didn't have a clue about the big Kerfuffle that had broken out around them until the lovely BAM told me about it. I did post on fab Smart Bitches, and basically said that I think authors often fall on their faces when they try to costume. I don't think Marianne and Liz fell on their faces, though. They were tasteful and promo-ing their new line. Good for them.

On the other hand, I do have a problem with ultra-flamboyant authors furthering the stereotype wherein romance author are not simply disrespected, but laughed at, and then used as press poster girls for all of us. Again, I don't think Marianne and Liz fell into this category, but others did and do quite often.

No, I don't think there should be a dress code attitude at RWA. That's ridiculous. Grown-ass women should dress to their own standards. Finger-pointing and tisk-tisking makes us look like a group of women who love to gossip about each other - yet another female stereotype I abhor.

So...Please check out Marianne's debut Shomi novel and let me know what you think. As soon as I turn in The Book That's Trying To Kill Me, I'm definitely going to read it.

MOONGAZER by Marianne Mancusi
Dorchester, August 2007

Imagine every night entering a nightmare world you can't escape and being told your life is a dream. Skye Brown has it all: the cool job, the hot boyfriend, the apartment on New York's Upper West Side. But lately she can't enjoy any of it. She's having dreams of a post-apocalyptic world. Of a bleak futuristic wasteland. Of a struggle against oppression. And she's been told she's a...

MOONGAZER

But what is that? And what is reality? In her dreams, she's not Skye Brown at all, but Mariah Quinn. In her dreams there's Dawn, the beautiful yet haunted soldier, and Skye is but the empty shell of a girl he once loved. And there was a betrayal, a great betrayal. Ripped between Dark Siders and club kids, the mundane and the mystic, Skye must discover who she is, what she wants and who wants her. And why. But in the glow of the moon, it's not always easy to recognize the face in the mirror.

Cover:
http://ec2.images-amazon.com/images/P/0505527251.01._SS500_SCLZZZZZZZ_V41968999_.jpg

Excerpt:
http://www.dorchesterpub.com/Dorch/SpecialFeatures.cfm?Special_ID=2222

ABOUT MARIANNE MANCUSI
When it comes to writing, award winning author Marianne Mancusi doesn't like to play by the rules. A multiple Emmy award winning television producer, she sold 11 novels to three publishers (Dorchester, Berkley , Dutton Children's) in less than three years. Marianne has worked in television stations in Orlando , San Diego , and Boston . A graduate of Boston University 's College of Communications , she currently produces for a nationally syndicated lifestyle show. She lives in Manhattan 's Upper West Side .


REVIEWS
“Exhilarating! Once I started, I couldn’t put this book down!”
– New York Times Bestselling Author Gena Showalter

"Dreams, reality and virtual reality collide in Mancusi’s exciting and frightening new futuristic thriller.”
- Romantic Times Magazine 4 Star Review

"An enthralling combination of The Matrix and Snow Crash with a bit of Blade Runner thrown into the mix.”
- SF Scope

Website http://www.mariannemancusi.com

RWA Fun

I've been smothering in deadlines, so I'm in hibernation but when I saw this funny pic of Kristin and me posted on the RWA website from our St. Martin's signing I had to pass it along to y'all. I (we) did have an excellent time at the convention - LOVED The Craft restaurant in the Dallas W Hotel so much that I'm taking Kristin back over the weekend of her 21st birthday in November. It was wonderful to see my author friends, editors, my amazing agent, and Smart Bitches Sarah and Candy!

More when I crawl out of my Goddess Summoning Book hole. Oh, the working title of this one is ALMOST A HERO. BIG cover change to reflect the title change. I can't wait to see what Berkley comes up with. You know I have excellent cover chi!

Off to Dallas!

I'm taking off for RWA Nationals in Dallas tomorrow. Sadly, I won't be at the literacy signing Wed. as a participant, but if I make it down it time I'll definitely be there as a consumer, which will actually be a fun change for me! I will be signing at the Berkley giveaway Friday, at the Frisco Barnes & Noble Saturday from 11:00-1:00, and then Kristin is flying down to join me at the St. Martin's giveaway on Saturday. If you're looking for me, check out the bar...

Hope to see y'all there!

New Photographer!

So quite by accident I found a fabulous new photographer. His name is Greg Poindexter - website, www.boeboi.com. He took some new author photos of me and I want y'all to tell me which you like best.

Also, if you need a good photographer and you're in the Tulsa area, Greg is your guy. It's hard to believe, but I truly hate having my picture taken. Greg made the experience a pleasure. He'll come to your home (or meet you on location) and make sure everything is painless. Let me know if you'd like more contact info - or just contact him directly through his website. Be sure to tell him P.C. sent you!

Now, which one do you like best??

OFFICIAL RELEASE DATE!

Hi Guys!
Well, it's FINALLY the official release date of GODDESS OF LOVE, or as I like to think of it, GoLURVE. I can't wait to hear what you think of this one! It's funny (you've got to lurve Venus!) and so damn hot I made my own self blush!

Here's what people are saying about it:

"GODDESS OF LOVE is touching, clever, and an excellent heiress to the Goddess Summoning series. Cast's ability to subvery misogynistic mythology to celebrate and reaffirm what makes women wonderful is always worth celebrating. As a Goddess of Bitchery, I bestow my snarky blessings on this book." Sarah@smartbitchestrashybooks.com

"Cast is back and doing her usual excellent job of combining ancient mythology with modern day scenarios. The gods and goddesses have never been more sympathetic or amusing than they are in this truly delightful novel. Cast is a wonderful spinner of magical tales." Romantic Times Book Review - 4 stars

"Scorchingly sensual, utterly delicious! P.C. Cast is a true master of her craft." Gena Showalter, NY Times bestselling author of They Nymph King

"Sexy, charming, and fun, GODDESS OF LOVE is the fantasy romance of the year! You will fall in love with this book. (I did!)" Susan Grant, NY Times bestselling author of My Favorite Earthling

"GODDESS OF LOVE is a sexily enchanting read that I couldn't resist. I look forward to our next foray into P.C. Cast's Goddess Summoning world." Kelley A. Hartsell of CK2S Kwips & Kritiques

"I found the book to be delightful with many "hot" love scenes (no pun intended as the God of Fire, Vulcan, is one of the heros!) and a lovely story of friendship, understanding, and acceptance." BookMom, bookmom.wordpress.com

So, give Lurve a try!
XXXOOO
PC

Check out the Marked Video Trailer!

CHECK OUT MARKED!

I have to tell y'all how incredibly excited Kristin and I have been about early reader response to MARKED. Romantic Times gave us a 4 1/2 star Top Pick review! And that was just the beginning of the lurve for MARKED! Check out the latest kick butt review by www.romrevtoday.com:

MARKED – P.C. Cast and Kristin Cast

The House of Night, Book 1

A Perfect 10

St. Martin’s GriffinISBN: 978-0-312-36026-9 May 2007Young Adult Contemporary Paranormal Fiction Tulsa, Oklahoma – Present Day

Zoey Redbird is clearly having a bad day. It started off with her best friend Kayla emphasizing that her boyfriend – “almost-boyfriend” – Heath had not been cheating on her at a party. Zoey hadn’t even known there was a question of infidelity in the first place, and, uh, he isn’t really her boyfriend right now. His beer guzzling had so gotten old and totally disgusting, despite the fact that Heath is the high school’s football god. To cap it all off, Zoey is Marked, and that requires some explanation.It’s been proven by scientists and researchers that there truly exists a race called vampyre. Defined by the blue crescent-shaped mark on the forehead, a vampyre is Marked and subsequently leaves for the House of Night to begin “training.” Some may call it ghoul school, some may call it...well, whatever they like, but no one can predict if or when a teen will be Marked. Humans denigrate and fear it, and the unlucky individuals who now have this bodacious mark on their foreheads have a lot to deal with -- a change of life, a new school, and getting used to those who share their fate. Oh, and then there’s that whole blood thing...Yeah, so, see what kind of pain Zoey’s feeling right now? At a new school, with new uniforms, and a new lifestyle, Zoey quickly realizes that a hierarchy similar to that of high school exists at the House of Night. It’s all very confusing, and she quickly realizes that there are a few kids just like her, learning the ropes. With her new roommate, Stevie Rae, and a couple of other new friends, Zoey forms friendships and alliances, and even develops a new crush -- Erik “ohmygod” Night. But Zoey stands out from the others, and it’s not just because the High Priestess Neferet is her mentor. Hey, just because Zoey has been hand-picked by the goddess Nyx doesn’t mean she’s a shoe-in for this gig...Now, about that blood thing...With a nod to Harry Potter and X-Men, P.C. Cast and her daughter Kristin have on their hands a stellar launch to their new series, The House of Night. Already known for her immensely popular Goddess Summoning series, it was only natural for P.C. Cast to team up with daughter Kristin and write from a different perspective. I can only imagine those brainstorming sessions! Teen lingo and machinations is a totally evolving thing, and so much has changed even from my teen time *bleep* years ago. But what gets me with MARKED is that it’s not just a young adult tale that will only entertain those teenyboppers. I’m thirty-...*cough* ahem, well, I’m not exactly a teen, and I still got a total thrill from reading of Zoey and her friends’ adventures. “Wicked cool” and “gnarly” came to mind, but I really think those terms went out back in 1990 -- so just how do you describe a book that has it all these days? Riveting, page-turning, nail-biting, etc? Yep, that pretty much sums up MARKED and has really got me jonesing for more from Zoey and the gang at House of Night. All characters in this book are well-defined and plotted out, making them very easily identifiable. We all had the class bullies and cheerleader snobs to contend with back in the day, so maybe for many MARKED will be a nightmare revisited. But Zoey and her friends, Damien, Stevie Rae, Erin, and Shaunee, truly stand out and add a bit of zaniness, laughter, and tears, and exemplify true friendship.A heads-up for those parental control type folks, however: a bit of colorful language is used here and there throughout the book (not abused, though), and while I understand that this may be normal for teens nowadays, it wasn’t very rampant in the young adult books I read as a kid. I can only imagine I’d have a few ugly words if I were thrown in a situation like Zoey’s...With that said, my next question -- do you award a young adult book RRT’s Perfect 10? Absolutely, and that’s just what I’m doing. My only other thought is this -- how willing would P.C. Cast be to put an adult spin on it and give us stories for the various professors at House of Night?

Amy Cunningham
Romance Reviews Today

Isn't that fantastic?! We're totally thrilled! (We're also almost finished with the third book in the series, CHOSEN.)

So, have you read it yet? What did you think?

C.J. Barry under a new name!

I know many of you are already familiar with and fans of the fabulous s-f/f author, C.J. Barry. Well, she's writing romantic suspense under a new name. Let's give her our support and check out her new release! Here's the info:

SIGHT UNSEEN by Samantha Graves
Warner Books; April 1 2007

Raven Callahan doesn’t do it for the money. She does it for the thrills. As a consultant for API, an art recover company, she gets to steal—legally. But when her colleague is kidnapped during an assignment, Raven is forced to steal a priceless master painting to save his life.
David “Dax” Maddox was the perfect street cop—until a botched burglary raid cost his partner his life and Dax his ability to see color. Now, with his world gray, Dax has only one mission: to take down the murderer. And he’ll use anyone—even a sexy thief with questionable ethics—to get justice.
Soon Dax and Raven are forced together as pawns in a madman’s scheme. From the heart of Cuba to the New York art world, they find themselves in a race against time to stop the ultimate revenge.
Cover: http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/images/0446618381/ref=dp_image_0/102-1632731-2872900?ie=UTF8&n=283155&s=books

Excerpt: http://www.samanthagraves.com/suexcerpt.html


ABOUT SAMANTHA

Samantha Graves turned a lifelong love of daydreaming into writing fiction. Under the name of C.J. Barry, she is the award-winning author of the UN-Forgettable Futuristic romance series. She now brings her unique blend of high adventure, sizzling romance, mystery and humor to her first contemporary romantic suspense.


REVIEWS
4 ½ Stars & a Top Pick “This fast-paced adventure provides all the action, romance and thrills a reader could ask for. " - Romantic Times magazine
Five Stars "I found myself hooked from page one!" - Huntress Reviews
"Tightly woven and suspenseful...will keep readers riveted." - The Road to Romance
"A refreshing paranormal romantic suspense thriller." - Harriet Klausner
Five Angels & a Recommended Read "Fun, exciting and at times heart-wrenching." - Fallen Angel Reviews

WEBSITE: http://www.samanthagraves.com

Countdown to the release of MARKED

So Kristin (refer to lovely picture above) and I are counting down the days till the release of MARKED, the first book in our wonderful young adult vampyre series. I'm going to be running some contests and opening the blog for questions about writing with a partner, writing YA, and...well...writing in general. Kristin is also available to answer questions (in all her copious free time between working full time and going to college full time and writing with me...). I thought I'd start things off by posting an article Kristin just wrote for the teen magazine, TeenInk, where she talked about the experience of being published at nineteen. Feel free to blog in with questions for Kristin (better known around my house a Chicken Frances because her initials are KFC - she loves it when I pass along cute little family facts like that!).

PUBLISHED AT NINETEEN!

(DREAM COME TRUE OR NIGHTMARE IN THE MAKING?)

by Kristin Cast, coauthor of MARKED: A HOUSE OF NIGHT NOVEL

The countdown to May 1st, the release date of my first novel, MARKED: A HOUSE OF NIGHT NOVEL has begun. It’s a frenzy of interviews, book signing dates, getting reviews (which I read like I watch horror movies – through my fingers), and in general an “interesting” time, especially because it’s coinciding with college finals (ugh).

Okay, I’m going to be really honest with you. (You may want to sit down.) The truth is that most of the time I feel like I am letting people down when they ask: “Is being published at nineteen exciting?!” The answer is more complex than a simple “Yep!” Here’s the deal: in my family, being an author is normal. It’s been my life for as long as I can remember. My mom’s been writing forever and published since 2001. Seeing her name, PC Cast (PC stands for Phyllis Christine, but no one under 85 can spell Phyllis correctly, so she uses her initials to save herself stress), on zillions of books is normal – it’s my mom’s job. So seeing my name on the cover of a novel is something I’ve always expected. I think it’s great, and I feel like I’ve finally achieved something I was meant to do. (Sorry. Now I realize I sound like one of those spoiled movie star’s kids. “Like, of course I knew I was going to be rich and famous because, like, my mommy is! Duh, where have you been?!” That’s not what I mean. I mostly mean: like mother – like daughter.). Sure, my mom wasn’t always the famous award winning author she is today, but I have always been exposed to the complex lifestyle of an author, which made it easier for me to help write these books. I knew the hard work that was expected from me, and knew the discipline it would take.

As for coauthoring with my mom, I can’t even begin to count how many times I’ve been sitting quietly, minding my own business watching one of the many Real World marathons, when suddenly, like the voice of God (or maybe it should say Goddess), my mom is yelling down the hall that she needs brainstorming help about where a scene could be headed, followed by a battering of questions, or several spelling confusions that need clarification (here’s a news flash – my mom is an AWFUL speller). Whether or not she ever actually took my advice, I have always assisted my mom while she is writing; now, I just help a lot more.

Coming up with the idea for the series was the easy part. My mom’s agent (who is now my agent, too, which is very exciting and cool to say, “Yes, I have an agent!") gave us the idea. She said three magic words: vampyre finishing school, and Mom automatically started thinking about a YA series set at a school for fledgling vampyres. I helped her brainstorm about the school, which we set at a local college prep school. Funny story about that – the stuck-up prep school wasn’t too keen on us setting a vampyre finishing school there, so in order to research the location Mom and I dressed up in pearls and cashmere and went to their open house where we – oopsie! – got terribly lost and had to wander around all by ourselves (taking tons of pictures on our cell phones). Hee hee!

The actual writing of our YA series is about teamwork. When Mom and I created our heroine, Zoey Redbird, we made sure that she was a lot like me at sixteen. The first three books are told first person from Zoey’s point of view, so honestly (and sometimes embarrassingly) it’s like I’m writing about sending my(vampyre)self on great adventures! We’ve even used the names of a couple of my ex-boyfriends (don’t tell them – it’s not always flattering). Characters based on high school friends (and enemies) are in the books. Oh, so are some of my teachers.

The mechanics of how we do it is pretty non-glamorous. I wish we sat around in satin pjs and ate truffles. What happens is Mom writes a section of the manuscript and then she emails it to me. I go through it and rewrite, focusing on voice and making sure that Mom hasn’t loaded it down with too much description (Boring! But don’t tell her!) Often Mom will leave gaps in the text, especially in Zoey’s internal dialogue, that I fill in, making sure Zoey sounds sixteen and not forty-six. I really get caught up in Zoey’s life and her friends. I know it sounds a little psychotic, but they seem very real to me. So real that in book 2, BETRAYED, something terrible happens (no, I’m not going to tell you) and it literally made me stop writing for three days because I was so upset! But, besides the slightly psycho aspect of it, and the deadlines, it’s fun, really. And, except for the fact that she can beat me at will, I like writing with my mom!

Seriously, this life is normal to me, like breathing, it’s something I enjoy and I understand how to do. Oh, and I’m in the research stages of a book that I’m writing on my own. (More about that later!) So, to me, I’m just another person in my family with a large imagination and a whole lot to say.

New novel from my Berkley Sensation sister!

Y'all, please check out Rebecca York's latest in her lovely werewolf series:

NEW MOON by Rebecca York
Berkley Sensation; March 6, 2007

It's in one man's true nature to remain by the side of the woman he loves, rather than live without her in his own universe...
Landscape architect Logan Marshall is out for a jog—in his werewolf form—when a trap catches his paw. As it saps his strength, he is saved by another werewolf, who—to Logan's amazement—is female.
Female werewolves aren't supposed to exist. But Rinna is a shapeshifter from another dimension who's traveled through a portal to this world. And the trap that ensnared Logan was set by her former captor, and meant for her...
But as soon as Rinna and Logan touch, an electrifying bond forms between them. Unable to resist his desire for Rinna, in all her many forms, Logan will have to earn her trust, and travel through both dimensions to save her—and earth—from the wrath of her enemy...
Cover:
http://images.barnesandnoble.com/images/12000000/12007453.jpg
Excerpt:
http://mywebpages.comcast.net/glick/sneak-p26.htm

ABOUT REBECCA YORK
Ever since she can remember, Ruth Glick has loved making up stories full of adventure, romance and suspense. As a child she corralled her friends into adventure games or acted out romantic suspense stories with a cast of dolls. But she never assumed she could be an author, because she couldn't spell. Her life changed, however, with the invention of the word processor and spelling checker--and the help of her husband, Norman Glick, who spots spelling errors from fifty paces away. Writing as Rebecca York, she has authored or co-authored over 45 romantic suspense novels, many for Harlequin Intrigue's very popular 43 Light Street series, set in Baltimore, and many with paranormal elements.


REVIEWS

Website: http://www.rebeccayork.com

Nalini's lovely book!

I've very much enjoyed the world Nalini Singh has created, and am excited that the next installment is available! Check it out!

VISIONS OF HEAT by Nalini Singh
Berkley Sensation / March 6, 2007

Go deeper into the world of the Psy and the changelings, where a gifted woman sees passion in her future-a passion that is absolutely forbidden by her kind... Used to cold silence, Faith NightStar is suddenly being tormented by dark visions of blood and murder. A bad sign for anyone, but worse for Faith, an F-Psy with the highly sought after ability to predict the future. Then the visions show her something even more dangerous-aching need...exquisite pleasure. But so powerful is her sight, so fragile the state of her mind, that the very emotions she yearns to embrace could be the end of her. Changeling Vaughn D'Angelo can take either man or jaguar form, but it is his animal side that is overwhelmingly drawn to Faith. The jaguar's instinct is to claim this woman it finds so utterly fascinating and the man has no argument. But while Vaughn craves sensation and hungers to pleasure Faith in every way, desire is a danger that could snap the last threads of her sanity. And there are Psy who need Faith's sight for their own purposes. They must keep her silenced-and keep her from Vaughn...

Cover: http://www.nalinisingh.com/images/Visions.jpg

Excerpt: http://www.nalinisingh.com/visions.html

ABOUT NALINI SINGH

Nalini Singh is passionate about writing. Though she’s traveled as far afield as the deserts of China and the temples of Japan, it is the journey of the imagination that fascinates her the most. She’s beyond delighted to be able to follow her dream as a writer.

Nalini lives, works and eats copious amounts of chocolate in beautiful New Zealand.

REVIEWS

“…if you're a paranormal reader, this is one book that you have to read!"~Julie Kornhausl for Romance Reader At Heart

“Nalini Singh has done the enviable; she has written a sequel that lives up to its predecessor.”
~Fallen Angel Reviews, 5 Angels, Recommended Read.

“A breathtaking blend of passion, adventure and the paranormal. I wished I lived in the world Singh has created. This is a keeper!”
~Gena Showalter, bestselling author of The Nymph King

“…I read the book in one night. One single night. Stayed up until 3 a.m.…This book sucked me in and would not let go….The sexual tension between Vaughn and Faith was explosive from their very first meeting….” ~Jaci Burton, Author of Surviving Demon Island

Website http://www.nalinisingh.com/ (includes Behind the Scenes info on the Psy/Changeling series)

eHarlequin's Reader's Choice Awards

I was so pleased and excited to be notified that DIVINE BY MISTAKE is nominated in two categories for eHarlequin's Reader's Choice Awards: Best Book of 2006, and Best "Woo Woo" Book (apparently that covers everything from sci-fi to paranormals). Now it's time for readers to cast their votes (CAST - GET IT?!) to choose the winner! All you need to do is to go to www.eharlequin.com. If you're not already registered you'll need to register. Then click on the TALK icon. When the new page comes up look to the right and click on BOOK BUZZ. Then scroll down till you see "What's NEW?" Under that you'll (finally) see Reader's Choice Awards, which you can then click into and vote. There are several categories and voting is lots of fun.

It'd be great if you clicked a vote for Jeri Smith-Ready, too, under Best New Author and Best Online Read.

Happy voting! And I very much appreciate your support!

Girlfriend release!

I'm so glad my friend, Susan Grant's, new book is finally out! She's fabulous and so is her book. Please check it out:

MY FAVORITE EARTHLING by Susan Grant
HQN; March 1, 2007

Even a Goddess can have a bad day...Keira, warrior-queen of the galaxy, is as famous for her beauty as she is for avoiding marriage. But when an upstart little planet called Earth threatens her world with its fleet of spaceships, the fate of her people lies in her hands. She must bind herself to a barbarian from the rogue world...or face the destruction of her own!

She's what he never knew he always wanted...Confirmed bachelor Jared Jasper knew the trick Earth pulled on the alien invaders wasn't a permanent solution. What they needed was a peace treaty. It just never occurred to him that he would wind up on the bargaining table. Playing the pushover groom to a mouthy alien babe who knows how to use a plasma sword is not exactly his idea of fun. But with six-billion people depending on him, he doesn't have much choice--sleep with the enemy...or bring on interstellar war.

Strange bedmates? You bet. But this alliance may turn into a romance the likes of which this galaxy's never seen!

Cover:
http://ec1.images-amazon.com/images/P/0373771924.01._SS500_SCLZZZZZZZ_V48704388_.jpg

Excerpt:
http://www.susangrant.com/books/earthling.htm#excerpt

ABOUT SUSAN GRANT

Former USAF jet pilot and current commercial airline pilot, RITA award-winner and New York Times bestseller Susan Grant loves writing about what she knows: exotic places, action, adventure, and the often unpredictable interaction between men and women.


REVIEWS

“Susan Grant writes heroes to die for!” --Susan Kearney, USA Today bestselling author

“I loved this book! I can't rave about this novel enough. From an arranged marriage, to royal espionage, to saving Earth, MY FAVORITE EARTHLING is not a book to be missed!” – Sylvia Day, bestselling author of Pleasures of the Night

“Susan Grant's sexiest story yet!” -- Gena Showalter, bestselling author of The Nymph King

“A sizzling cosmic romp!” -- Angela Knight, USA Today bestselling author

“Dang but Jared was a hot hero! Susan Grant is an author I sincerely wish I hadn't waited so long to discover! -- Shannon McKelden, author of Venus Envy

“Charming, witty, and sexy as all get out!” --Linnea Sinclair, RITA award-winning author of Games of Command

4.5 stars! “This interstellar romp starts off fast and soon is hip deep in sexy humor and deadly assassination attempts. Grant has really hit her stride with this marvelous blend of humor and danger.” --Jill Smith, Romantic Times Magazine

“Susan Grant proves once again why she is Master of the Futuristic Genre. Jared and Keira's heat burn up the pages!” – award-winning author Colby Hodge

WEBSITE http://www.susangrant.com

DIVINE BY BLOOD COVER

I know I posted the art for this cover as soon as the amazing artist, James Griffin, sent it to me, but I thought y'all would like to see the almost finished version. According to my editor, all that's left to add are the cover quotes. I think it's absolutely spectacular! I do have me some excellent cover chi!

DIVINE BY BLOOD will be released by LUNA in September, and it is the third book in the trilogy that began with DIVINE BY MISTAKE (Sept 06) and DIVINE BY CHOICE (Dec 06).

New Nocturne Release

Y'all know I love the new Nocturne line - so much so that I sold the first two books of my new dark paranormal series to them. So check out this fab release by lovely Vivi Anna!

BLOOD SECRETS by Vivi Anna
Silhouette Nocturne

A young human woman is found ritualistically murdered in a downtown Necropolis hotel. It is up to Caine Valorian, a 200-year-old vampire, and his Otherworld Crime Unit to solve the unusual crime, and quickly before the human press can jump onto the story and cause a panic. To add to their already tough case, a new member, Eve Grant, transfers to their lab at the request of the mayor. Not only is she green and eager to impress the boss, but she's human. The first human ever to work in an Otherworld unit. The mayor thought it would be great press especially now with the strange human murder.

Caine has his work cut out for him, especially with his unruly team who don't appreciate any help from a human. Not only is this the toughest case of his career, but he's unusually attracted to the new girl, which can only cause trouble for them all. However, as they sink deeper and deeper into the workings of the case, Caine and Eve become closer and closer. So close that neither of them can see past each other and at the real happenings behind the scenes. The more they poke and prod at the case, the more they realize that something is going on, that this murder is only one step toward a greater purpose. Someone in the Otherworld community is calling on dark forces, in a plot to wipe out the entire human population.

Cover:

http://ec2.images-amazon.com/images/P/0373617585.01._SS500_SCLZZZZZZZ_V48704448_.jpg

Excerpt:
http://www.valorianchronicles.com/bloodsecrets_nonflash.php#excerpt

ABOUT VIVI ANNA

A bad girl at heart, Vivi Anna likes to burn up the pages with her original unique brand of fantasy fiction. Whether it's in ancient Egypt, or in an apocalyptic future, Vivi always writes fast paced action-adventure with strong independent women that can kick some butt, and dark delicious heroes to kill for.

Once shot at while repossessing a car, Vivi decided that maybe her life needed a change. The first time she picked up a pen and put words to paper, she knew she had found her heart. Within two paragraphs, she realized she could write about getting into all sorts of trouble without suffering the consequences.

When Vivi isn't writing, you can find her causing a ruckus at downtown bistros, flea markets, or playgrounds.


REVIEWS

If you like CSI, you'll love this smart, sexy and suspenseful trip through Necropolis where the villains are vamps, werewolves and witches--and so are the good guys. Strong, sexy Caine Valorian is a vampire to die for. He's also the head of the crime unit that cracks the supernatural cases no human is brave enough to tackle. Except beautiful but businesslike Eve Grant. Sparks fly - in and out of bed - when Caine and Eve pool their talents to fight unspeakable evil. – USA Today best selling author, Rebecca York

A new series begins on a strong note with compelling characters that draw you into their world, showing it to you in a way that explains without bogging down the narrative. This is a solid mystery that is enhanced by the romantic and paranormal elements. I look forward to seeing more from this author – Eternal Night Review

Website http://www.valorianchronicles.com
http://www.vivianna.net

Werewolf Lurve

As I've said before, I do lurve me some werewolf action. Check out Lucy Monroe's (my Berkley Sensation sister) latest!

MOON AWAKENING by Lucy Monroe
Berkley Sensation February 2007

An enthralling new romantic tale that pushes the boundaries between love and hate, passion and pain-and man and beast...

When Emily Hamilton's family is ordered to send a woman to the Scottish highlands for marriage to the laird of the Sinclair, Emily volunteers in order to save her younger sister from such a fate. But at her new home, the only friend she finds is the laird's sister-especially after Emily's stubborn streak causes the laird to cancel the marriage. And though her plans have gone awry, she refuses to return home...

Lachlan Balmoral is laird of his clan-and leader of his pack. One of the most feared werewolves prowling the Highlands, he is on the march against the hated Sinclair, who have abducted a Balmoral woman. He kidnaps the sister of the Sinclair laird, planning to marry her off in revenge-but the woman he takes along with her proves to be the greater prize...

For Emily feeds a desire he has never known existed. And though Lachlan would not think of touching his enemy's betrothed, he must know how a mere woman could tame his heart so easily...

Cover:
http://ec2.images-amazon.com/images/P/0425214265.01._SS500_SCLZZZZZZZ_V40879991_.jpg

Excerpt:
http://www.lucymonroecotm.com/excerpt_ma.htm

ABOUT LUCY MONROE

Award winning author Lucy Monroe sold her first book in September of 2002. Since then she has sold more than 30 books to three publishers and hit national bestsellers lists in the US and England. Her highly charged, sensual stories touch on the realities of life while giving the reader a fantasy story not easily forgotten. Whether it's a passionate Harlequin Presents, a sexy single title for Kensington or a steamy historical or paranormal for Berkley, Lucy's books transport her readers to a special place where the heart rules and love conquers all.


REVIEWS

This is sure to be a popular series, and I am wiggling in anticipation of Ms. Monroe's next offering. This is a book not to be missed! -- Natasha for Romance Junkies

MOON AWAKENING is an electrifying supernatural historical romance starring a courageous highly moral female and the werewolf who falls in love with her. The story line is fast-paced from the opening eavesdropping to the final confrontation with evil. Lucy Monroe brings to life a unique medieval Scotland filled with the paranormal, the romantic, and the intrigue as she provides a clever tale of yore… -- Harriet Klausner


Website http://www.lucymonroecotm.com
http://www.lucymonroe.com

Check it out

I really like the fact that Tor added a line of romantic fantasy/sci-fi novels, and I support the wonderful authors who write for them. Check out Tor's latest release:

ISLAND HEAT by Susan Kearney
Tor Romance February 6, 2007

He dominated with an otherworldly seductive power . . .

What was happening to her? Former screen siren Shara Weston lived on an exotic and private South Pacific island as a recluse . . . until disturbingly masculine and utterly captivating Cade Archer fell out of the sky and into her life. Now, Cade gives her no choice but to follow him down a sensual path that fulfills her every desire.

Cade's on a mission to open a portal between Shara's island volcano and his world. But not everyone wants him to succeed. A powerful enemy has followed Cade to prevent him from sending the resources through the portal that will free his people.

While Cade's mission is as compelling as his dominating sensuality, Shara must find a way to fight him . . . to stop his mission because the fate of every man, woman and child on Earth is at stake.

Cover:
http://ec1.images-amazon.com/images/P/076535666X.01._SS500_SCLZZZZZZZ_V46350350_.jpg

Excerpt:

http://www.susankearney.com/island_heat.html


ABOUT SUSAN KEARNEY

Susan Kearney used to set herself on fire four times a day, now a USA TODAY BESTSELLING author, she does something really hot—she writes paranormal romance for Tor, sensuous romance for Harlequin Blaze and romantic suspense for Harlequin Signature. She can apply the old rule of "write what you know" and never run out of ideas for characters and plots. An All-American and professional diver, expert in martial arts, sailor, real estate broker and owner of a barter business as well as women's fitness and three hair salons, she has enough material for a lifetime.


Visit’s Susan’s website (http://www.susankearney.com) for an exclusive book trailer!!!

Excellent Cover Chi Continued...

Oh, baby! Just got this from St. Martin's. It's the cover for book 2 of THE HOUSE OF NIGHT YA series, BETRAYED, which will be released in October. Ohmygoddess! Kristin and I lurve it! Check it out, and here's a synopsis tease:

Zoey Redbird's adventures at vampyre finishing school continue in BETRAYED, book two of THE HOUSE OF NIGHT series.

Fledgling vampyre Zoey Redbird has managed to settle in at the House of Night. She’s come to terms with the vast powers the vampyre goddess, Nyx, has given her, and is getting a handle on being the new Leader of the Dark Daughters. Best of all, Zoey finally feels like she belongs--like she really fits in. She actually has a boyfriend…or two. Then the unthinkable happens: human teenagers are being killed, and all the evidence points to the House of Night.

While danger stalks the humans from Zoey’s old life, she begins to realize that the very powers that make her so unique might also threaten those she loves. Then, when she needs her new friends the most, death strikes the House of Night, and Zoey must find the courage to face a betrayal that could break her heart, her soul, and jeopardize the very fabric of her world.

Pearl Award Finalists

Nominated for 2006 PEARL

ParaNormal Excellence Award in Romantic Literature


The list of finalists for 2006 Paranormal Excellence Awards for Romantic Literature (PEARL) is out, and I'm thrilled that MYSTERIA is a finalist in the anthology category! So if you lurved MYSTERIA, MaryJanice, Sue, Gena, and I would appreciate your vote! Congratulations to all the finalists; I see a lot of familiar names there! Remember that only PNR group list members can vote.
2006 Finalists are:

ANTHOLOGY
DATES FROM HELL by Kim Harrison, Lynsay Sands, Kelley Armstrong, Lori Handeland | Avon
MY BIG FAT SUPERNATURAL WEDDING by Jim Butcher, Rachel Caine, Lori Handeland, Charlaine Harris, Susan Krinard, Sherrilyn Kenyon | St. Martins
MYSTERIA by MaryJanice Davidson, Susan Grant, P.C. Cast, Gena Showalter | Berkley
BLUE MOON ENCHANTMENT by Jill and Julia, Dawn Thompson | Highland Press
SILK AND MAGIC TWO by M.A. duBarry, Caryn Carter, Brandy Lee | Imajinn

FANTASY / MAGICAL
LOVE IN THE FAST LANE by Jenna McKnight | Avon
MASTER OF SWORDS by Angela Knight | Berkley Pub Group
HEART QUEST by Robin D. Owens | Berkley Publishing Group
THE WATERLORD by Dawn Thompson | Dorchester Publishing
DANGEROUS TIDES by Christine Feehan | Jove

FUTURISTIC ROMANCE
YOUR PLANET OR MINE? by Susan Grant | HQN Books
ETERNAL NIGHTS by Patti O'Shea | Lovespell
GHOST HUNTER by Jayne Castle | Jove
HELL KAT by Vivi Anna | Kensington, Aphrodisia
TRUE BLOOD by Patricia Waddell | Tor

BEST DEBUT (NEW) AUTHOR
Deidre Knight |
Karen Chance | Roc
Lucinda Betts | Kensignton, Aphrodisia
Deborah MacGillivray | Kensington Publishing
Jacquelyn Frank | Zebra
CJ England | Mardi Gras Publishing

NOVELLA OR SHORT STORY
FAERY GOOD ADVICE (IN NO LAW AGAINST LOVE) by Jacquie Rogers | Highland Press
DOUBLE, DOUBLE, TOIL & TROUBLE (NO LAW AGAINST LOVE) by Deborah Macgillivray | Highland Press
RIDER IN THE STORM (from BLUE MOON MAGIC) by Deborah Macgillivray | Highland Press
BLUE CHRISTMAS CAT (HOLIDAY IN THE HEART) by Deborah MacGillivray | Highland Press
THE WARLORD WANTS FOREVER (from PLAYING EASY TO GET) by Kresley Cole | Pocket Books

BEST PARANORMAL ROMANCE
DARK SIDE OF THE MOON by Sherrilyn Kenyon | St. Martin's Press
PLAYING WITH FIRE by Gena Showalter | HQN
SLAVE TO SENSATION by Nalini Singh | Berkley
LOVER AWAKENED by J.R. Ward | Signet Eclipse
THE FALCON'S BRIDE by Dawn Thompson | Dorchester Publishing
CONSPIRACY GAME by Christine Feehan | Jove

SCIENCE FICTION / FANTASY
A FISTFUL OF CHARMS by Kim Harrison | Harper Torch
SORCERESS OF FAITH by Robin D. Owens | Luna Books (Harlequin Enterprises)
DEFINITELY DEAD by Charlaine Harris | ACE Books
LOVER ETERNAL by J. R. Ward | Signet
LOVER AWAKENED by J.R. Ward | Signet Eclipse

SHAPE SHIFTER
DARK SIDE OF THE MOON by Sherrilyn Kenyon | St. Martin's Press
MASTER OF WOLVES by Angela Knight | Berkley Pub Group (Sensation)
MOON CALLED by Patricia Briggs | ACE
FULL MOON RISING by Keri Arthur | Spectra
BONDING EXPERIENCE by Cora Zane | Cobblestone

TIME TRAVEL
PARALLEL ATTRACTION by Deidre Knight | Signet
ROUGH AND READY by Sandra Hill | Berkley Pub Group
MUCH ADO IN THE MOONLIGHT by Lynn Kurland | Jove
THE FALCON'S BRIDE by Dawn Thompson | Dorchester

VAMPIRE PARANORMAL ROMANCE
DARK CELEBRATION by Christine Feehan | Berkley
DARK DEMON by Christine Feehan | Jove
WATCHERS IN THE NIGHT by Jenna Black | TOR
A HUNGER LIKE NO OTHER by Kresley Cole | Pocket Books (Star)
NO REST FOR THE WICKED by Kresley Cole | Pocket Books (Star)

New Cover Art for DIVINE BY BLOOD

James Griffin, the amazing artist who created the covers for DIVINE BY MISTAKE AND DIVINE BY CHOICE has done it again! I absolutely adore this cover for my September LUNA release, DIVINE BY BLOOD. It's such a treat seeing this while I'm still working on the manuscript. Actually, this scene (which the LUNA art director,Kathleen Oudit, envisioned) eerily mirrors something I already had in mind. Now that I've seen this I'm going to really bring the scene alive! And I do believe I'm going to put Morrigan in this exact outfit - LOVE IT. You can check out James's blog at http://www.paintlayers.blogspot.com/ for more info on his fabulous art. There has been some talk of releasing the art to these three covers as limited edition prints. I say HELL YES! What do y'all say?

Scrumptious new release!

Jaci Burton writes deliciously sexy books, and I have been looking forward to her new release, SURVIVING DEMON ISLAND. Yes, I'm going to admit that I watch some reality shows. It's embarrassing but true that I've been known to be totally addicted to trash TV. So mixing a reality show format with paranormal and heat - I'm there, baby!

Speaking of being there: Jaci and I will be part of a group of lovely authors who will be at the Tulsa 71st Street Barnes and Noble Friday, Feb. 9, @ 7:00, to celebrate the lovers' month with a fun party and book signing. Please stop in and see us!

Here's the info about Jaci's new release:

Kai steadfastly refuses to tell us the purpose of his unexpected visit until the new High Priestess joined us

Major News!

Okay, we have been waiting and waiting to announce this fabulous news and have finally been given the go ahead to say something, so here it is: Sony TV has optioned all four novellas from our wonderful MYSTERIA anthology for a cable TV miniseries! So that's MaryJanice Davidson, Susan Grant, Gena Showalter and moi (please see lovely photo of "us" above). Talk about a wonderful holiday gift! Stay tuned for updates!

Let's hear it for the Goddesses!

I like to support sister goddess authors (as well as Tor's paranormal/fantasy romance line), so be sure you check out Shannon McKelden's first novel, VENUS ENVY (such a delicious title)!

Here's the scoop:

VENUS ENVY by Shannon McKelden

(TOR Books, December 26, 2006)

Take one hunky firefighter, one stubborn "Cinderella," and one very reluctant fairy godmother and what do you get?

Rachel Greer wants no part of Venus's scheme to land Mr. March as her Prince Charming, but Venus is determined to do just that. She's only a few love-life fixes short of returning to her former goddess status, and she's not letting one mulish mortal stand in her way.

It appears the only way Rachel can get rid of the very un-Disney-like fairy godmother is to play along. So she follows Venus's plan to interview Luke Stanton's ex-girlfriends...which Venus believes will cure Rachel's relationship fears, but which Rachel knows will only prove her point that men are never what they appear to be.

But, when Venus's plan appears to work, and Rachel and Luke fall in love, does Rachel dare set aside her fears about happily ever? Or will betrayal send her back into relationship seclusion...this time forever?

And what happens when a goddess-turned-fairy godmother breaks the most important rule--protecting herself from human emotions?


Excerpt:
http://www.shannonmckelden.com/venus1.htm

Cover:
http://ec2.images-amazon.com/images/P/0765315858.01._SS500_SCLZZZZZZZ_V62234549_.jpg

ABOUT SHANNON McKELDEN

Shannon McKelden has wanted to be a writer since she earned a coveted ‘A+++’ from her 9th grade English teacher. She lives in the Pacific Northwest with her high school sweetheart, two kids, two cats, a dog and a crow.

REVIEWS

Witty, funny, and truly original, McKelden’s romance is a standout. -- Booklist

Sexy, clever and fun, Venus Envy is absolutely delightful from beginning to end. Author Shannon McKelden has talent to spare. –Jane Porter, author of The Frog Prince

Debut author McKelden is undeniably talented, milking a fun plot for all it's worth. 3 Stars. – Romantic Times


Website: http://www.shannonmckelden.com

Delicious anthology

I'm hearing lovely things about the UNLEASHED anthology, especially Lucy Monroe's novella. Check it out:

“Come Moonrise” by Lucy Monroe featured in UNLEASHED
(Berkley, December 5, 2006)

Ty MacAnlup has seen the tragedy that a mating between a werewolf and a human can bring and he wants no part of it, no matter how much his body and heart ache for a taste of Frankie's softness. Frankie has loved Ty for years and while she doesn't know he's a werewolf, or even that such things exist...she does know that to her, he's always been more than a mere man. Ty's hidden beast wreaks havoc with his determination to stay away from Frankie when they are trapped together in a small cabin in the snow bound wilderness.

Excerpt:
http://www.lucymonroecotm.com/excerpt_cm.htm

Cover:
http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/images/0425212114/ref=dp_image_text_0/002-6782187-3030458?ie=UTF8&n=283155&s=books

ABOUT LUCY MONROE
Award winning author Lucy Monroe sold her first book in September of 2002. Since then she has sold more than 30 books to three publishers and hit national bestsellers lists in the US and England. Her highly charged, sensual stories touch on the realities of life while giving the reader a fantasy story not easily forgotten. Whether it's a passionate Harlequin Presents, a sexy single title for Kensington or a steamy historical or paranormal for Berkley, Lucy's books transport her readers to a special place where the heart rules and love conquers all.


Website: http://www.lucymonroe.com
http://www.lucymonroecotm.com

YA BOOK COVER!

Finally! Kristin and I got a look at the cover for book 1 of our YA HOUSE OF NIGHT series, MARKED. It was definitely worth the wait! St. Martin's says they're still tinkering with it, but we love it! Check it out...

PREORDER BLITZ!!

You can order DIVINE BY CHOICE right now! Yea! FINALLY FINALLY FINALLY! Okay, here's the deal. Yes, the book isn't officially available until December, BUT my favorite local independent bookstore, The Book Place, is taking pre-orders now. (My books usually get there at least a couple weeks before they're available at major bookstores and Amazon.) So, you can order DIVINE BY CHOICE (with a lovely 15% discount!) through The Book Place and before they ship it to you I will march my little self down to the store and sign it for you! Yes, you can get a copy of DIVINE BY MISTAKE signed by me, too.
Here's what you need to do:

Find out for yourself why RT gave P.C. Cast's DIVINE BY CHOICE a 4 1/2 star rating Top Pick review!!!

Pre-order your copy of DIVINE BY CHOICE (LUNA Dec., 2006), the long awaited sequel to GODDESS/DIVINE BY MISTAKE and receive a copy signed by P.C. Cast at 15% off the cover price!

RT said, "With Cast's imaginative style, expectations are high for this second book in the Divine series, and it delivers. Superlative world-building and a modern, sarcastic heroine make this an accessible and delightful read. The first of this series, Goddess by Mistake, earned a 4 1/2 star rating; the updated reissue, Divine by Mistake, is even better. While Divine by Choice can stand on it own, pick up both of these treasures for your keeper shelf."


If you would like to receive a signed copy of DIVINE BY MISTAKE (LUNA Sept., 2006) you can place that order during this promotion period and also receive 15% off the cover price!


TO RECEIVE THIS SPECIAL OFFER be sure to include in the “Question or Message” section of the order form “Pre-Order Promo for P.C. Cast”.


TO HAVE THE SIGNATURE PERSONALIZED: Be sure to include in the “Question or Message” section of the order form the name of the person you would like included in the inscription. Otherwise the book will have only the signature of P.C. Cast.


HOW TO ORDER: This pre-order special will be available only through The Book Place in Broken Arrow, Oklahoma. Please visit http://www.the-bookplace.com to place your order today! Click on “Search Inventory” in the menu, type in the title of the book you wish to order and submit. The Book Place can be reached by phone at (918)455-1422.



Any questions regarding this promotion can be directed by e-mail to Sherry Rowland at srowland@twosisterspromotions.com

Happy ordering guys! The long wait for DIVINE BY CHOICE is finally over!

Cover for Goddess of Love!

Thought I'd share the cover for my June 07 Goddess Summoning Book, GODDESS OF LOVE. It's the fifth book in this fabulous series, and it was certainly fun to have Venus has a heroine. Goddess of Spring fans - Persephone has a cameo in this one, too. Meddlesome Hera also plays a part. Here's an excerpt teaser:

The set up - Persephone has taken Venus shopping in Tulsa. This is the Goddess of Love's first visit to the modern mortal world, and they are capping off their lovely shopping day by relaxing with martinis at Persephone's fav Tulsa restaurant (coincidentally, it's my favorite Tulsa restaurant, too!), Lola's at the Bowery.

Persephone shook her head and tried, unsuccessfully, to stifle a giggle. “I can’t believe you actually bought that thing.”
“How could I not after reading its name?” She pointed to the shiny black box that had the word VENUS D’MY LAY written in bright scarlet letters across it. “How do you open it?”
“You’re going to open it? Right here?”
Venus glanced up at her, violet eyes bemused. “Why not?”
“Well, it looks like a...”
Venus managed to wrestle open the lid and slid out its contents. Holding it up, she finished for Persephone, “A big, black phallus!”
“It certainly does.” Persephone stared. “Actually, it’s disturbingly real. What does it feel like?”
Venus caressed the long, black shaft, running her slender fingers knowingly over its rounded head, and flesh-like ridges and veins. “It feels nice. Much more realistic than the phalli the ancients carve. I mean, really. Not even a god’s penis truly gets as hard as marble, no matter what Apollo may boast. How does it work?” Venus enthusiastically shook the huge dildo with a jerking-it-off motion, getting several interesting looks from men sitting at the bar, which she chose, for the moment, not to acknowledge. “It says it vibrates, but it’s not vibrating,” she frowned.
“Give me that thing. You have to put in the batteries.”
“Batteries?”
“Modern magic that makes it work.”
“Oooh.” Venus sipped her martini while she watched Persephone insert batteries into the shaft of the phallus. “So those odd looking things will really cause it to vibrate?”
“That’s what the girl at Pricilla’s Toy Box said.”
“She was oddly pierced. Did she remind you of an Amazon warrior, too?” Venus asked.
“Now that you mention it, there was something wild and warrior-like about her. She might not quite be an Amazon, but I think Diana would approve of her.” Persephone said. “Here. Try turning it on now.” She passed the penis across the table and pointed to the hidden switch in its base. Venus stroked it on. The huge member came alive, humming happily.
Venus gasped. “By Zeus’s swinging testicles! It is magic!”
“Okay,” Persephone looked quickly around the chic restaurant, frowning severely at the men at the bar who were clearly being very entertained by Venus’s uninhibited show. She took the vibrator from the goddess, flipped it off, and put it back in its box. “You really might want to rethink the divine genitalia cursing.”
“What?”
“The tits and testicles of the Olympians just aren’t used as curses here.” She dropped the VENUS D’MY LAY in the shopping bag and unobtrusively kicked the bag under their table.
“Persephone. I am Goddess of Love,” Venus kept her voice low but firm. “It’s always appropriate for me to curse using references to genitals. Anyone’s genitals.”
“Do you want to fit in here?”
“Of course! I adore modern mortals. I can already tell that the men are appreciative without being sycophants. And the women move with such a delicious sense of freedom and power. I plan on spending many happy days exploring this wonderful kingdom.”
“Then leave the genitals of the gods and goddesses out of it.”
Venus frowned, looking unusually pensive. “I’m not sure I can. You know I prefer to refer to love whenever I can.”
Persephone raised one delicate eyebrow. “Love?”
“Naturally. Genitals equal love – love equal genitals. Persephone, darling, do we need to have a more private talk? How have your orgasms been lately? Are you experiencing multiple releases? And when you don’t have a partner, have you been pleasuring yourself adequately?”
Persephone raised her hands, palms out. “Stop. You win. Use whatever curses please you most. Just be prepared to be questioned about them.”
“I’m always prepared to answer questions about love,” Venus smiled sweetly. “But first I want…” she caught the young waitress’s eye and waggled her fingers at their two almost empty martini glasses.
“Did you ladies want another round?”
“Darling, you said your name was Jenny, didn’t you?” Venus asked.
“That’s right,” the waitress smiled. “Two more martinis?”
“Yes, but this time let’s try The Wake,” Persephone said.
“Excellent! You’ll love it. I bring those right out.”
“The Wake?” Venus asked Persephone after Jenny hurried off.
“It’s yummy – chocolate liqueur, espresso, vodka, ice crystals…” she licked her lips and shivered in delight. “Trust me on this.”
“Oh, I do! It sounds decadent. I’m certain I’ll love it. I’ve loved everything else in this kingdom.”
“Okay, you’re really going to have to quit calling it that. There’s no such thing as a kingdom of Tulsa. It’s just Tulsa. Like Rome is just Rome, not the kingdom of Rome.”
Venus scoffed. “Try telling those obsessively patriotic ancient Romans they’re not a kingdom.”
“Point taken. I used a bad example. Here’s the thing – you can be eccentric and different here – that’s fine. You’re incredibly beautiful–”
“Why thank you darling!” Venus interrupted.
“I’m just stating the truth. Anyway, you can get away with being…well…what modern mortals will consider weird because of your beauty.”
“Weird? I am not weird.”
“By Athena’s widening ass you certainly are!” Persephone said, mimicking her friend’s voice and using one of her all-time favorite curses.
Venus’s violet eyes sparkled. “Athena’s ass is getting big. Come on. Admit it. She’s become far too serious! All ‘Look at me! I’m the grey-eyed Goddess of War, Wisdom, and the Arts.’” She exaggerated a yawn. “She needs to loosen up, and in more ways than one. A few stretching exercises and a good jog would help her out as much as taking a lover or two.”
“You’re incorrigible,” Persephone laughed. “And you’re not going to get me off the subject that easy. You can use your genital curses. You can even get way too personal about other people’s love lives. But you can’t go around calling Tulsa a kingdom.”
“Fine fine fine. It’s not a kingdom. It’s a city. I’ve got it. I’ll remember. It’s just that I’m having so much fun! I adore Tulsa and its mixture of cheeky modern men and confident modern women, especially because none of them have any idea who I am.”
“I told you it would be a freeing experience to visit the modern world.”
“Well I am Love, and I can officially say that Love is in love with Tulsa!”
The waitress put two fresh martinis on their table, along with two slender white slices of an exquisitely decorated cake. “Here are your Wakes, ladies. And the owner, Lola, is testing out a new dessert – personal wedding cake. Please sample it with her blessing.”
“Wedding cake!” Venus laughed and clapped her hands together in a spontaneous show of girlish pleasure. “How perfectly appropriate.”
“Are you getting married?” The young waitress asked.
“Me? No! I’ve been married forever. That’s not why it’s appropriate. It’s just that I am Love. Naturally, wedding cake should be a favorite of mine.”
The waitress continued to smile politely, but her face had turned into a question mark.
“She means she’s fixed up a lot of her friends. Sometimes we just call her Love,” Persephone explained.
“She’s good at fixing up people? That’s cool.”
“You have no idea,” Venus mumbled through a big bite of wedding cake. “Paris and Helen…Pygmalion and–”
“Thanks for the cake!” Persephone interrupted smoothly. “And keep an eye on our martinis; we’ll want at least one more round.”
“Will do.”
When she was gone Persephone bit into her own slice of cake while she shook her head at Venus.
“What? You don’t like the cake. I think it’s wonderful.”
“The cake is excellent. You, on the other hand, are a mess.”
Venus took a sip of the new martini and moaned softly in pleasure. “By Apollo’s golden phallus this is delicious!”
“Venus, could you please please please try to remember that to the modern mortals Troy existed thousands of years ago? And to them Pygmalion carving Galatea out of marble was just a myth.”
“Pygmalian? A myth? Impossible. He was a dreadful woman hater before I played matchmaker.” She grinned mischievously. “Matchmaking with a statue. I must say that I outdid myself that time. How could people believe that love story was a myth?”
“You knew them!” Persephone hissed. “And you’re used to magic, unlike modern mortals.”
Venus cocked her head to the side and studied Persephone. “You seem very tense. When was the last time you orgasmed?”
“That has nothing to do with it.”
“Of course it does. When was the last time?”
“Five days ago.”
“See there!” Venus nodded vigorously as if she’d just proved an excellent point to an attentive audience. “That’s your problem.”
“I don’t have a problem.”
“Well you won’t if we get you properly laid.” Venus looked around the restaurant, clearly checking out the men at the bar.
“No. Really. I’m fine. And if I’m not I do have a rather long list of mortal men I can call on,” she said smugly.
“Excellent. Then do so. Five days without a proper orgasm is entirely too long. But are you sure you don’t want to me work a little love magic for you?” She waggled her long, shapely fingers and diamond-like glitter began to form in the air around them.
“No!” Persephone yelped, grabbing Venus’s hand and causing the love dust to fall in a small, sparkling heap on their table. She quickly blew on the powdery substance and then went into a sneezing fit when it danced in the air around them before disappearing back into the Goddess of Love’s fingertips.
“Be careful,” Venus said as she finished the last of her cake. “That stuff isn’t good for your lungs.”
“Thanks for reminding me,” Persephone said sardonically while she sniffed delicately. “Just nevermind on the love magic stuff. I’m doing fine on my own. Plus, you know what happens when you get too involved in the love life of the gods.”
“What are you talking about? I have made uncounted matches – happy matches.”
“Yes, you have. Happy matches between mortals. When you mess with our love lives, as in the immortals, of which I am one, things tend to go wrong. Drastically wrong.”
“You exaggerate.”
“Exhibit A – Athena and Odysseus. You decided Athena needed to love a mortal. Look me in the eye and tell me your meddling didn’t cause the man to be absent from his wife and family for 20 years.”
Venus shrugged and looked uncomfortable. “If Athena hadn’t been so obsessive that little affair wouldn’t have been such a bad thing.”
“So you’re admitting it was a bad thing?”
“Maybe.”
“Fine. Exhibit B – the Scylla/Glaucus/Circe debacle.”
“That’s not fair. I had no idea that Circe was so attached to Glaucus. I thought he and Scylla made a lovely match. You know I did think he was just scrumptious after he became a water deity. How was I to know that Scylla rejecting him would make Circe so jealous?” Venus pouted. “I really don’t know how you can hold that against me.”
“Okay. How about Exhibit C – Zeus and–”
“Okay! I get your point. Although how you could blame me for any of Zeus’s silly affairs I’ll never know,” she muttered. “Anyway, I won’t meddle in your love life. Right now,” she added under her breath. “But I do have the urge to, I don’t know, arrange something for these fabulous mortals. Kind of as a payback for having such a lovely time in their city.” She enunciated the word distinctly, getting a grin from Persephone.
“Hey, meddle away with the mortals. It’s fine with me. Whether they are aware of it or not, they’re lucky to have the Goddess of Love be so interested.”
“Really!” Venus brightened. “Matchmaking always gets my womanly juices flowing.”
“Venus. Please. TMI.”
“TMI?”
“Too much information. Keep your woman’s juices to yourself.”
“You know, for Spring you really are a prude.” She narrowed her eyes at Persephone. “When was the last time you gazed at the beauty of your sacred lotus blossom with a mirror?”
Persephone choked on her martini.
“Just as I thought. You need to spend more private time with the core of your womanhood.”
“Mortals. Focus on the mortals, Venus.” Persephone said between coughs.
“If you insist…” Venus said, turning her attention to the morals surrounding them even while she filed away in her mind that she’d have Persephone sent a special mirror when she got back to Mount Olympus.
Then all thoughts of Persephone and mirrors fled her mind as a group of laughing men entered the restaurant. They took seats at the gleaming oak bar and began a good-natured flirtation with Lola herself, who had emerged from the kitchen and was one of those timelessly attractive women who could have been anywhere from thirty-five to fifty-five, and who would still be confident and sexy at sixty-five and seventy-five. Obviously, the group of men were regulars as well as favorites with Lola and her wait staff.
“Who are they?” Venus asked Persephone.
“Firemen…” Persephone purred the word.

Awesome Announcement!

I am thrilled to announce that today my agent finalized a deal with Silhouette's new imprint, NOCTURNE, for the first two books in my new dark paranormal series, AFTER MOONRISE! The novels will focus on a paranormal investigative team, After Moonrise, that deals with the underbelly of the supernatural. The world is much like ours, only darker. Ghosts, hauntings, possessions, supernatural crimes, etc., are the norm, although only a minority of people can influence the spirits. My team at After Moonrise handle the darkest and most dangerous of supernatural events, with a heavy dose of sexy...sexy...sexy...

Stay tuned for specifics!

And we are having a lovely paranormal party at Out of the Blogosphere (follow the link in my blog margin). Please stop by and say hi! Lots of prizes are being given away!!