In the Kitchen with LeeAnn Sontheimer Murphy

In the kitchen today sharing coffee and recipes, and talking books, of course, with LeeAnn Sontheimer Murphy author of  Love Scars from Evernight Publishing

    Since my heroine, Cara, is a Texas girl, I have no doubt she can make great chili.   Although I'm not Texas born (although I've spent a little time down in the Lone Star state), I have a family heirloom chili recipe that I thought I would share.  The beginnings of this recipe date back to World War I when my grandfather was sent to what was then Camp Hood for Army training.  He fell in love with both Texas and the spicy food so when he returned to Missouri, years later, he brought his chili recipe with him.  Now chili wasn't a common dish outside of Texas at the time and the old school version was made with beef chunks rather than ground meat.  After his death, his sons tinkered with the recipe until my dad perfected his version.   Cara's version is really what I like to call "chili Sontheimer style" but here it is:

Ingredients:

2 big onions (chopped) 4 med. celery stalks (washed and chopped) 2-3 garlic toes 3-4 lbs. ground beef Salt ; to taste Pepper; to taste ½ = 3/4 cup Williams® chili seasoning 3  or 4 cans red beans 4 c water opt. chili powder 1. Get big pan 2. Spray pan w/ cooking spray 3. Pour canola oil in pan ; coat bottom of pan. 4. Turn pan on to med. heat 5. Chop celery finely (use food processer if available) 6. Chop onions w/ the garlic 7. Add/ Cook the onions, celery, and garlic 8. Add meat, chunk meat 9. Add pepper and salt 10. Brown the meat; then drain fat 11. Add Williams® chili seasoning and opt. chili powder 12. Add 4c water 13. Add beans Cook chili to preferred consistency ( watery, dry etc.) Cool, then cover and put in fridge Reheat and eat next day for maximum flavor Love Scars blurb: After marrying her sexy undead husband Will Brennan, Cara Riley Brennan thought her happy ending would last forever but she soon learned that the course of true love doesn’t ever run quite that smooth.  Just when she thought they were settling into eternal bliss, Sallie Hawkins, the woman who made Will into a vampire in the past, intrudes into their lives.  She’s wicked, she’s jealous, and she won’t stop till either Will or Cara is dead. Her psychic presence tortures them both in body and soul but when she arrives outside their home in the flesh things go from bad to worse.   Cara and Will realize that confrontation is inevitable. When the three meet for battle, they all may not survive and in the end, who lives and who dies is up to Cara who will do anything to keep her chance at a permanent happily ever after ending intact.

Released Today!

Releasing today from Breathless Press

Available at All Romance eBooks, 

Telling the Truth

Truth or Dare

book 2

Telling the Truth- Truth or Dare book 2

Blurb

The Blake brothers have upped the ante in their weekly poker game. The week Terry loses, he finds that paying his debt of telling the truth sets him free to pursue a fantasy he never dreamed could be reality.

Terry has lived his life according to the guidelines, by studying accounting, getting an MBA, and working for the family business. And while his work has its own rewards, something has been missing, and his eyes have only just been opened to what--or rather who--that could be.

Terry's brothers have upped the ante in their weekly poker game. A Truth or Dare challenge.  Terry can handle any dare his brothers dish out, but the demand for Truth is a different matter. Unable to hide behind his pristine reputation and fancy business suit, Terry is honor bound to divulge secrets he’s been ashamed to admit even to himself in the privacy of his own bedroom.

Twins Dex and Trick have finally found acceptance for their relationship in the homes of their friends. They would never do anything to jeopardize that newfound sense of belonging. Fooling around with Mischa’s prissy, domineering, oh-so-sexy older brother is risky. A one night stand might be okay, and the boys happily indulge, but then close ranks afterward, pushing Terry aside.

Terry isn’t going to back down without a fight. He’s convinced that Dex and Trick are meant to be his, and he’ll do whatever it takes to make them realize all the safety and protection they need can be found in his arms.

Give Away WInner

Winner of Give Away by Random number Draw: 

 Patricia

Sent you an email, Patricia! 

New Excerpt from Upcoming Telling the Truth

Telling the Truth

Available June 24th from 

Breathless Press

Excerpt 2

Shit. This wasn’t going well. Did you really expect it to?  Why? You didn’t enjoy hanging out in clubs as a straight man, why did you think you would find the smoke, noise, and crowd more appealing now that you’re gay? Good point that. He didn’t like this scene, straight or gay. Nodding, decision made, he dropped a bill on the bar next to his untouched drink and headed for the door. No meat markets, gay or straight.

He had nearly achieved his objective when a hand from nowhere yanked him onto the dance floor and he found himself playing pole to a wildly gyrating dancer in a miniscule pair of black leather shorts. The dancer rubbed his obviously aroused cock all over whatever parts of Terry he managed to reach and draped his arms around his neck. Stunned, Terry waited for his body to respond. Nope. Nothing. Sighing, he raised his hands, looked at the other man’s nearly naked body and grimaced. He’d had this problem when his first prom date wore a backless strapless dress, too. No safe place to put his hands.

Finally, he settled for pushing the tips of his fingers against the man’s shoulders, trying to get some distance between them. “Thanks, but no thanks.”

He backed away from the disappointed guy and then turned to make another break for the door. He assiduously ignored the straying hands that patted at his ass and groped his body, maintaining a steady pace toward the door.

At last he stood in the clean, sweet air outside the club, sucking in deep breaths. With fresh air came a return of sanity. What the hell did he think he was doing anyway? He wasn’t some kid out looking to get laid. He was a grown man who’d had a moment of epiphany. His personality hadn’t changed. He’d just fallen in lust. Ok, maybe after six months he could consider the possibility that it might be more, but he certainly hadn’t become promiscuous just because he’d admitted he was gay. He wanted two men, and only those particular two men would do. Looking for substitutes in bars was the stupidest idea he’d ever come up with. No, he could blame that idea on Mischa, the little shit.

Calm settled over him. Yeah, Mischa. He pulled his cell phone from his pocket and pressed the rapid dial button programmed with Mischa’s cell. He’d met his twins any number of times at Mischa’s house in the past six months. If he stuck close to Mischa he was certain to encounter his obsession again. Next time he met up with the twins, he’d be ready. No more wussing out.  Next time, he’d ask them.

***

“He was here.”

Dex turned to stare into Trick’s blue eyes. He smiled; such a beautiful face his brother had. “I saw him, too.” Dex replied, pulling his brother back down onto the chair next to his own at the tiny table along the furthest wall of the club. “He stood at the bar for a while.”

Trick leaned forward across the tiny table to whisper in his ear in order to be heard over the loud music. “I told you he was gay.”

“He was straight at that party six months ago. I saw him arrive with that slutty actress, Marissa “Look I Have Boobs” Matinson.” Dex shivered as Trick’s warm breath caressed his ear. He swept a swift glance around the crowded club, but no one seemed to be paying any attention to them.

“We arrived at that party with Bella, does that make us straight?” Trick flicked Dex’s earlobe with his tongue, sending more shivers through his frame. “We should have gone over to him, said hello.”

“Quit teasing,” Dex demanded, twisting to press a kiss to the tormenting lips. “I want him, too. And I will concede that his presence here does give a strong indication that he might be gay. But,” he cautioned as he saw the fire light in Trick’s eyes, “being gay doesn’t mean he’s going to be into being with both of us.” Oh shit, he hated seeing that devastated look in those beloved blue eyes. Lifting a hand, he pushed straight black locks behind Trick’s ear and kissed him again, a little harder this time, trying to distract him from the possibility that their crush might not want them. Terry Blake always seemed vaguely startled to find himself with Dex and Trick.  Every time they met he’d introduce himself as though he’d forgotten who they were, make some vague comment about the weather, stare around desperately, and make some shallow excuse to leave them.  Sometimes, Dex thought he saw the slightest hint of heat, an ember of desire, but always it disappeared.

Sighing, Trick pushed him away, and then grasped his hand. “I know. But I didn’t like seeing him here. I didn’t like Calvin flirting with him, I didn’t like that little creep dancing with him, and I didn’t like seeing all those guys grabbing his ass. He’s ours, I know it.”

God bless Trick. He was always so certain things would turn out the way he wanted them to. No matter how many times life reared back and slapped them in the face, he always seemed to hold hope in his heart. Dex pulled Trick into a comforting embrace, and whispered into his ear, “I didn’t like seeing that either, doll. But I did like that he didn’t seem to care about those other guys.”

“What do you mean?” Trick gazed into Dex’s eyes, seeking reassurance.

“I mean the hottest guys in this room gave him the eye, and he didn’t even notice. I don’t know why Mischa’s brother came here tonight, but I do know he left alone and he didn’t have to.”

Fuck. Mischa’s brother. There was a timely reminder. After years of rejection and snide remarks from family, friends, and complete strangers, Trick and Dex had finally found friends who accepted them for who they were. Mischa, Donovan and Bella didn’t look at them as though they were perverts because they loved one another. They didn’t insist on looking the other way when he and Trick showed their affection for one another, and they didn’t demand prurient details about how deep that affection went.

He looked over at Trick again. He wanted above all things to see his brother happy. Six months ago when they caught the gorgeous accountant watching them at a barbeque at Mischa’s house, they’d both felt an instant surge of desire. Terry’s expression showed fascination, not disapproval or disgust. The potential loss of Mischa’s friendship made the price of taking Terry to their bed too high.

In the Kitchen with Pender Mackie

We're cooking in the kitchen with Pender Mackie, author of Scent of Attraction today.   Pender has a recipe to share for Paella that is mentioned in the book.  Paella is a classic Spanish dish, originally a laborers' meal, They cooked it over an open fire in the fields and ate it directly from the pot.  Most commonly the recipe included chicken, rabbit, duck and snails. 

Chicken Sausage and Shrimp Paella

2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into chunks

2 Italian sausages, cut into 1 inch chunks

1 pound of shrimp, shelled and deveined (can use frozen)

2 onions, finely chopped

1 red pepper, seeded and chopped

10 whole cloves garlic, peeled

28 ounce can of tomato pieces

2 cups Arborio rice (make sure it’s Arborio rice)

3 cups chicken stock

1 cup of red or white wine

2 or 3 bay leaves

1 sprig fresh rosemary

Olive oil

Method:

Heat a large heavy frying pan or traditional paella pan.

 Add a splash of oil and brown the chicken and sausage chunks. 

Set aside when browned.

Sauté onions in pan (add a little oil if needed).

When onions are golden brown, add garlic and sauté for a few minutes.

Add tomatoes then rice, chicken stock, wine, bay leaves, rosemary, red pepper pieces, 

and the previously cooked chicken and sausage.

Add fresh or thawed shrimp.

Simmer and cook over medium heat until the liquid has absorbed and the rice is tender.

 (Should take about thirty minutes.)

Serves four.

 

Scent of Attraction by Pender Mackie

Blurb

When Shawn takes a job at a cologne counter in a busy department store he hopes it’s the beginning of a successful career in the health and beauty industry.

But almost two years later Shawn is frustrated with his job and his love life. He’s still working the cologne counter, still single and still spending every night alone.

His job allows him to meet plenty of good-looking men but most of them are straight, and even when they aren't, Shawn is shy. He gets nervous and tongue-tied when he’s around a hot guy and the thought of going on a date with a complete stranger makes his stomach churn nervously.

When he meets friendly and outgoing Graham the attraction on both sides is intense and immediate.

Shawn might be willing to step out of his comfort zone this time, but there’s just one problem. Graham's already with someone else.

It looks like their relationship is over before they even share a kiss…

Excerpt

Shawn groaned quietly. Another day dealing with good-looking straight boys. He really wasn’t in the mood for them today. He groaned again and resisted tugging on his short, carefully gelled hair. Besides being an annoying reddish blond and ridiculously fine, if he touched it too much the spiked bits would flop over, ruining the overall effect. Plus, he'd look about twelve years old instead of the twenty-five he actually was.

He stood in the center of his workspace, grimacing at the glass and chrome-trimmed counters that surrounded him. The glare—combined with the insipid store music and the smell of too many competing colognes—was starting to give him a headache. His shift had barely started and it was the middle of the January sales so the store would be full of shoppers looking for things they wanted, but didn’t get for Christmas.

It was Shawn's least favorite time of year. He didn't much like winter and he didn't like the frenzied shoppers and their mindless consumerism. And he hated how the stores—including this one—pushed to sell more of everything from perfume to kitchen gadgets, as if people hadn't bought enough unnecessary junk at Christmas.

Shawn's bad mood wasn't really about gray skies or bargain-hunters, though. He knew the real reason. He'd been working at this stupid cologne counter for almost two years and still no promotion.

When he'd finished university and taken this job in a brand new city, Shawn had known he'd be pushing fragrances and skin products, but that was okay. He'd done his research. This company was one of the best in the industry and he knew they liked to promote from within, liked their executives to have ground-floor experience. It was even rumored that a couple of the VPs had started out on the fragrance or cosmetics counter, and Shawn was willing to pay his dues. He just hadn't expected it would take so long to get his first promotion, and his lack of progress was making him moody and frustrated.

But there were some good things about this job. He got to see a lot of nice looking guys—though most of them were straight. He didn't have to spend much time with Mandy; the annoying saleswoman working the cosmetics counter, and his coworker, Stefan, was great.

He'd met Stefan when he began this job and they'd become almost instant friends. Stefan was a few years older and in a long-term relationship, but he'd made an effort to befriend Shawn and show him around the city. His partner, Anthony, had been just as outgoing, and now Shawn had a couple of good friends so his social life was doing all right even if his career and love life sucked.

Stefan's shift would start soon, and Shawn knew he'd be here any minute—his coworker was obsessively punctual. As Shawn glanced at his watch, Stefan glided towards their counter in his usual snazzy business attire and, for some unknown reason, a ridiculous-looking, puffy down-filled coat. The coat was open and his hands were stuffed in the pockets. Stefan was wearing his best bland expression. That meant he was up to something.

"Morning, Shawn. Ready for another fun-filled day of adventure?"

Shawn shrugged, feigning indifference as he leaned against the counter.

"You could be a little more enthusiastic since I'm about to make all your dreams come true. Guess what I've got in my pocket?"

"Unless it's a dehydrated, instant boyfriend and a bottle of water, I don't want to know."

"Ha ha. Funny," Stefan huffed. He looked around carefully. “Where's Mandy?"

"Probably fixing her face."

"If she wears any more makeup she's going to need a heat gun to peel it all off. Here, I smuggled us in some coffee." Stefan carefully drew two takeout cups from his pockets.

Shawn brightened and pushed off from the counter. "Thanks." He accepted the coffee gratefully, taking greedy sips before stashing the cup behind the cash register sitting on the island in the middle of their station. Caffeine was almost as good as aspirin. He could actually feel the headache receding.

"Maybe you aren't making all my dreams come true but you're definitely at the top of my list of favorite people today."

"Aren't I always?" Stefan asked, grinning. He sipped his own coffee more sedately. "I like your dehydrated boyfriend idea. You could order him from the back of a comic book, like those sea monkeys."

"Yeah. You could skip the 'I like him, does he like me?' phase and the awkward first date stuff," Shawn joked. He was getting into this now. "Just add water and ta-da! Instant boyfriend. Plus, if he did something to annoy you, you could leave him on top of the radiator to dry out and shrivel up again," Shawn suggested, laughing.

"Please! Don't use the words 'shrivel' and 'boyfriend' together." Stefan shuddered theatrically as Shawn snickered.

* ** *

"Lord have mercy," Stefan muttered.

Shawn looked up, his knees stiff from prolonged kneeling. Stefan was gazing across the department store floor.

"What?" He turned awkwardly and sat on his haunches. Damn. His foot was asleep.

"Hot man at ten o'clock. To your left." Stefan spoke from the corner of his mouth as if he was in a prison yard relaying a message—jailbreak tonight, pass it on.

Shawn thought maybe Stefan had seen too many movies. It took him a few seconds to figure out where to look and when he did, he couldn't see beyond the counter from his position.

"He's coming over. Get up here!"

"Why?"

"He's hot and who knows? Maybe he's single."

"And gay?" Shawn asked only half-sarcastically.

"Maybe. Just get up here!" Stefan strode towards him and reached out to grab his arm. They both froze as the man reached their counter. Shawn looked at him, curious to see what all the fuss was about.

The man wasn't particularly tall but he did have a nicely muscled frame, light olive skin, and dark wavy hair pushed back from his forehead. The whole package was presented in a dark business suit and a crisp white shirt. Shawn's pulse picked up. He loved the sight of a good-looking guy in a smart suit, and this one was gorgeous.

Available at:

http://silverpublishing.info/product_book_info/new-release-c-1/scent-of-attraction-p-261

http://www.amazon.com/Scent-of-Attraction-ebook/dp/B004VSYNUU

http://www.allromanceebooks.com/product-scentofattraction-543581-145.html

I have a few short free reads posted on my blog at: http://pendermackie.blogspot.com

Story Orgy Presents: Interviews with Sammy Jo Hunt

Story Orgy Presents: Interviews with SammyJo Hunt

Good morning Story orgy Readers!  Welcome our guest today, SammyJo Hunt, author of the upcoming Haunted Obsession and A Wicked Encounter.  SammyJo is going to share a bit about her work with us today.  Which, btw- is now available in paperback for all you fans of the old fashioned method of reading!  Congratulations on that, SammyJo!

What is your favorite quality about yourself?

My integrity. I believe that being reliable, responsible, and able to keep my word to someone, or follow through with promises and commitments I’ve made, speaks volumes about a person’s character. I live by that belief, and choose to associate myself with others who ascribe to that standard. It’s all part of being honest and trustworthy, that of having strong integrity. It’s something that’s not always easy to find in people.

What are you most proud of accomplishing so far in your life?

I’d have to say that almost completing graduate school with my focus in clinical therapy is my greatest achievement. Once I’ve finished school and become licensed as a marriage and family therapist, it will give me the ability to truly help individuals on a one-on-one basis. It’s my intention to work with the LGBTQ communities, and especially children and teens. Helping others to solve their own problems and work through personal struggles is an innate part of who I am, that of helping others in a compassionate manner. That role and process warms my heart and gives me great personal satisfaction.

  

When and why did you begin writing?

I wrote my first short story in 3^rd grade. That’s when I knew I had an imagination in overdrive. LOL! But, I began writing seriously in my teens, when I wrote my first romance novel at the age of 15. Professionally, I’ve been writing since I began my college education back in 1997 for social work. Now, I write a lot for graduate school and most of what I write is clinical and related to therapy and counseling. Some part of me needs an occasional break from that type of psychological intensity.

So, for personal enjoyment, I’ve been writing steadily for the past 2 years in the m/m romance genre, and I really love it. I didn’t start writing seriously in the romance genre until two years ago when I became inspired by some people I met in the gay community that made me crave writing fictional romance again. A absolutely adore a good story with a happily-ever-after ending, and it’s a great mental escape for me to indulge in and explore my creative literary side.

What inspires you to write and why?

I love romance, passion, angst, hot sex, and a great plot. When one throws all those components into the pot and stirs, it generally creates all sorts of fabulous inspiration for romantic stories. I tend to be all over the place with subject matter. My first book was a m/m historical erotic. My second book coming out in a couple months is a modern, contemporary ghost story and murder mystery. I enjoy the challenge of writing many styles and genres, with the common theme being romance at the heart of it.

Who or what influenced your writing over the years?

I grew up reading and adoring great romance authors such as Jude Deveraux, Janet Daily, Kathleen E. Woodiwiss, and Sidney Sheldon. They were my favorites of the romance genre who captured my imagination and took me on romantic journeys to far-away places. I always wanted to write the way they did. They really inspired me.

What do you consider the most challenging about writing a novel, or about writing in general?

I think developing a strong plot with great, passionate energy and chemistry that flows effortlessly between the two main characters is essential. Sometimes it’s a challenge. But when those elements come together and work right, the result is magic and it’s what I always strive to create.

What is your greatest strength as a writer?

I study human behavior and have a great deal of insight into how the human mind, heart, and psyche work. That aspect gives me the ability to develop and write great depth of character in the characters in my books. In addition to that, I’ve had a lifetime of experience, some of which has been very emotional and difficult. It’s much more difficult to write about something, a feeling, an emotion, a sensation, an event, if you’ve never been through it yourself. Due to that, I’d have to say there’s not much I can’t write about that I don’t have my own personal experience with. It’s easier to write something you have strong personal feelings attached to, because it’s easier to relate to it. That makes my writing better and more genuine, filled with more real feeling and emotion, more poignant to the reader.

Have you ever had writer’s block? If so, what do you do about it?

Oh gads, yes! Hasn’t everyone? LOL! For me, it’s necessary to literally take a step back and walk away. I have to focus on other things when I get stuck on a story and some part isn’t coming together or flowing the way I want it to. When I just relax, focus on something else for a bit, maybe even talk to a good friend and discuss the issue that’s bothering me, ideas eventually begin to flow again. Brainstorming with one or many people is a great way to spur ideas and move through a difficult area of a story. But once that energy is back, it usually stays with me and infuses my ability to finish a book.

Tell us your latest news?

Currently, I’m celebrating my first book release for A Wicked Encounter released through Silver Publishing. It’s a m/m erotic Regency-historical romance. You can find it on Silver’s website, Amazon.com, Goodreads.com, and other well-known romance eBook sites. This is the title that is now available in paperback at https://silverpublishing.info/product_book_info/paperbacks-c-83/a-wicked-encounter-print-p-356

In addition to that, I’m now under contract for two new books. The first is another novel with Rebel Ink Press. It’s due out on or before Sept. 1st this year, and is entitled Haunted by Obsession. It’s a contemporary, m/m paranormal erotic ghost story and murder mystery. I’ve always loved nostalgic old ghost stories, and just had to write one with a hot, m/m twist on it.

The other project I’m really honored and excited to be working on is an anthology entitled Chasing The Dream. This will be published through my first house, Silver Publishing, and is a joint project with four other amazing writers. You may have heard of Patricia Logan, Sue Brown, Lisa Worrall, and GA Hauser. The five of us have contracted with Silver to each write a m/m short story of some sort following the theme of the title.

I’ve already written mine, and have been privy to both Patricia’s and GA’s stories. They are fantastically hot. I can’t wait to see how readers like this new book. The scheduled release date for our full length novel of compiled stories will be Sept. 17^th this fall. That book will be available in both eBook and print copy formats, and will actually be my first printed book. I’m so excited and pleased to be part of this project, and cannot wait to hold the finished product in my hands.

So, in regards to both new books, as well as two other writing projects currently in the works, I’ll keep you updated as things progress.

Can you share a little of your current work with us? (a blurb, or excerpt)

It’s entitled A Wicked Encounter, released by Silver Publishing on April 2^nd 2011 in ebook format. It’s a Regency-style historical that is m/m erotic romance, and is set in the year 1792. The following is a short blurb. I’m super excited about the release and hope you’ll all check it out.

“Christopher Allwyne, Duke of Bellwood, stood to inherit a vast fortune. Still reeling from the loss of his parents and most recently, his Aunt Polly, the Duchess of Bellwood, the young noble found himself traveling in the dark of night to oversee Her Grace's funeral proceedings and to attend the reading of his aunt's will. Along the way, his carriage suffers a devastating accident, and a dark stranger comes to his aid and rescue. The Marquis Evan de Lombard, rich French nobleman, takes an instant interest in the handsome Christopher. Sharing a wicked encounter shortly after meeting, things look promising as love blooms between them. That is, until the Marquis reveals his true identity and purpose.

Once Christopher knows the truth, will he ever be able to forgive Evan and love him, despite the man's indiscretions? Torn apart by dishonesty, can love win out over betrayal and rise to the occasion, reuniting them for a lifetime of happiness? The cost for true love could be a price neither one is willing to pay.”

If you’d like to purchase your own eBook copy, go here to buy:

http://silverpublishing.info/

http://www.amazon.com/A-Wicked-Encounter-ebook/dp/B004UW00UE/ref=cm_cr_pr_product_top

http://www.goodreads.com/book/show/10792533

How did you develop your plot and main characters?

I was given a plot suggestion by the marvelous Sue Brown, who is a published writer of at least ten m/m erotic novels and short stories. She’s a good friend of mine. We were having a discussion on plot suggestions during the summer of 2010 and she said to me, “How about coach sex in a storm?” It’s really quite amusing, because Sue is from the UK. Being in the USA, I interpreted her suggestion to mean exactly that, a sexual encounter between two hot men in a stage coach from the 1800s.

After talking further with her, she clarified to me that what she meant was an encounter on a bus or a traveling motor coach. It was just the difference in the two dialects native to our countries. But by then, the idea was already firmly in my mind and the plot was expanding like wildfire. I couldn’t get it out of my head.

I was already picturing a stormy night on a lone road in the middle of the English countryside in the dark of night, an accident, and a smaller, handsome aristocratic man being injured and then rescued by a larger, dark, handsome man of imposing stature. That’s how Christopher’s character was born. As I wrote the first scene, when Evan appeared after the accident, he was just very clearly there in my mind’s eye. He was tall, with long, raven-black hair, and piercing blue eyes. It all just fell into place after that, and their hot romance kick-started what turned out to be an epic tale of love and forgiveness. I loved writing this story and hope to one day write more Regency-style romances.

Who designed the cover?

The fabulous, award-winning Ms. Reese Dante’ designed my book cover. She did a marvelous job with my ideas and delivered exactly my vision of elegant, darkly sensual erotica with a touch of history to the design. I wanted rich burgundy reds with lace, and a stormy night depicted around an ancient English castle. That, combined with sexy hot men, Reese created a powerfully sensual visual depiction of my story and its characters. It was the perfect introduction to my book and the story contained within its pages.

            Is there a message in your novel that you want readers to grasp?

            Perhaps more than anything else, no matter who you are or what your station in life, I want people to know that true love is out there and attainable for all people. Being a hopeful romantic at heart who is still looking for her own true love, I believe that love is real, that it exists, and that its possible for each one of us to have the love we desire in our lives.

            How much of the book is realistic?

            The basic premise of the story is entirely fictional. The historical facts and data surrounding the English, French, Russian, and Prussian wars is all correct. As clearly explained in the Foreward in the book, the story is a bit of harlequin-esque fancy, in that it’s written from the point of view that certain laws against homosexuality never existed during that period in time. The love story itself could easily happen today; however, generally speaking, the story itself is a romantic fantasy.

            What books have most influenced your life?

            There are two romance novels that profoundly changed me. I read them as a teenager, but have never been able to forget them. To this day, I still own copies of both. The most poignant was the story A Knight in Shining Armor, by Jude Deveraux, and Shanna by Kathleen E. Woodiwiss. Both novels were powerful, sensual, and stirring. Both stories made my cry for different reasons and touched my heart with the strength of the characters created in the books. That, combined with brilliant story-telling ability will make those two books the ones I’ll always attribute as the best modern romances ever written.

            Are you reading any interesting books at the moment?

            Over the past few months, I’ve read most of Sue Brown’s published works. I love her ability to tell a hot, angsty romance. This past weekend, I just finished reading Patricia Logan’s first two novels. They were both excellent; and of the two, I loved Undercover Nights the best. Now, I’m onto working my way through the most recent of GA Hauser’s newest novels. I just bought and started reading My Best Friend’s Boyfriend and also Born To Please. So yes, if not perusing a textbook for school, I’ve usually got my nose buried in a novel of one kind or another when not writing myself.

      How do you deal with rejection letters?

            Perhaps I’m lucky, but I’ve only had one rejection so far. And honestly, it wasn’t that big of a deal to me. Yes, I felt it; any normal person would. But on the other hand, once the story was rejected, I was actually glad because I’d already decided that I don’t want to publish with the house that turned the story down. There are other houses I like working with better, and out of both loyalty and also having a great working relationship with them, I’ll stay where I’m currently at, which is Silver Publishing and also Rebel Ink Press.

            Do you have any advice for writers?

            Perhaps the one thing that I’d encourage other writers with is being diligent. If you have talent and you know it, then don’t give up on your dreams. Don’t cave to pressure or rejection when you know you have something of value to offer to readers and publishing houses alike. Stick to your guns about your work and its quality. Don’t sacrifice your work to that of editors’ demands if you can avoid it. Your story’s integrity can be compromised if you give up too much to get it published. I, personally, am not willing to change a story dramatically in order to get it accepted. If it can’t be accepted as I wrote it, without being significantly changed to please a publisher into taking it, then it’s no longer really my story. It becomes ‘their’ story. I don’t want that, because that’s just not acceptable to me. That’s when I think it becomes time to look elsewhere.

     

What do you do to unwind and relax?

I enjoy walking, shopping, weight lifting, and of course reading a good book. I also love music and watching great movies.

What dreams have been realized as a result of your writing?

For me, reading romance novels as a teenager inspired me to dream of one day being a published author. Some part of me never pursued it because I didn’t really think it would ever happen for me. So in that regard, it’s a dream come true, a long time in the making. It’s very satisfying to know that my writing truly is good enough to merit being published. Even though writing is a secondary career for me alongside helping people, it’s a great feeling and makes me very happy. I’m enjoying this new sense of accomplishment in my life in an artistic area where I can create and express myself differently than in my other forms of work.

If you could leave your readers with one bit of wisdom, what would you want it to be?

If you can imagine it, you can create it in your life. No matter how small or big your dreams are, if you can visualize it, you can make it a reality. There is no such thing as “I can’t.” There is only the choice to “do, or not do.” And though that may sound a bit like Yoda talking, it happens to be a universal truth. A person can accomplish whatever he or she desires, based upon motivation, dedication, commitment, and the amount of effort put forth. For all those out there that said “I can’t do it,” remember there was someone else who said “Yes I can,”. . . and did.

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EXTRAS:

Here’s an excerpt from Chapter 1 of my book A Wicked Encounter (560 words):

"Christopher, Your Grace? I'm pleased to make your acquaintance," the Marquis de Lombard said with a question in his voice. "Perhaps we can talk more later, and you can tell me all about yourself then. But for now, 'tis probably best if we find some shelter for the night. Are you from this area?" His eyes flickered over the general locale.

"My aunt's castle is somewhere near here, but since I don't know exactly where 'here' is, I'm not sure how far away we actually are," Chris replied. It drew raised eyebrows from the other man, but the Marquis only nodded in response.

"I believe we passed a small inn several miles back. If you don't mind, perhaps we might find lodging there, Your Grace," de Lombard said, indicating the way they'd come. "We need to tend to that cut on your forehead. It looks deep."

Chris nodded and began to climb down from the coach. Mid-step, a wave of dizziness afflicted him and he stumbled. His rescuer caught him by the arm to keep him from falling to the ground, his blue eyes wide with worry.

"Here, let me." De Lombard climbed down behind Chris and supported his body's weight securely. The man's lean frame, pressed firmly against Chris's backside, was warm and solid, and he smelled like leather and warm male spice. The sensation was pleasant, perhaps more than pleasant, the contact stirring unfamiliar yearnings inside Chris. Strong arms supported him as the Marquis eased them both down gently, until they stood on solid, albeit wet and muddy, ground.

"Thank you. You're most kind," whispered Chris, shaken from more than just his near fall. He watched as the tall man hoisted himself back up to grab his leather carryall, then gracefully land on his feet as he jumped back down beside Chris. The man took hold of his elbow and urged him toward a grand carriage that stood off to the side of the road.

A richly cloaked driver hurried to open the door for his master. Chris climbed inside. A small lantern hanging from the center of the ceiling cast a low but cheerful glow on rich velvet upholstery and heavily carved woodwork. The inside smelled just like the man himself, sweet and spicy, of fine wood and heavy, tanned leather. The scent was pungent and filled Chris's nostrils like a drug. He sank into the soft cushioned bench and curled in on himself, closing his eyes for a moment. The Marquis joined him, after speaking quickly in French to his driver and giving explicit instructions on where he was to take them. The man nodded his compliance. "Oui, Monsieur. Absolutement," he answered, then folded up the coach stairs and shut the door.

A moment later, the coach lurched forward, the four black stallions glistening in the steady downpour as their powerful muscles contracted and began the task of pulling the carriage back down the road the way they'd come. The nobleman focused his eyes intently on Chris, a small smile playing at the corners of his mouth.

"You should rest. Close your eyes, Christopher. We'll be to the inn in a matter of minutes," he said reassuringly. Chris didn't argue. He was already too tired to complain or contradict and his head was beginning to throb horribly. He leaned back and drew his damp coat tighter about himself, closing his eyes. The sound of steady horses' hooves lulled him swiftly away, and he slept.

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You can find SammyJo Hunt at the following websites:

Personal Website and Blog address-  http://sammyjohunt.livejournal.com

Twitter-  http://twitter.com/#!/SammyJo_Hunt

Facebook-  http://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100002250721821

Email:  sammyjowrites@gmail.com

More About the Summer's Hottest Heroes Event

It's going to be the battle of all battles this summer as 32 of 2011's hottest heroes suit up in their armor, fangs, fur, camouflage, fire-fighting gear, etc., and square off. 

Mischa Blake FROM Keeping House HAS BEEN SELECTED AS ONE OF THE 32 FINALISTS! 

ROUND 1 - Meet the Heroes - July 1 - July 7

32 Heroes will be divided into 16 pairs.

Readers will get to vote for 1 Hero in each pair.

The winner of each pairing will advance to the next level

I don’t know who Mischa will be paired against, but you can’t miss him when you see him! 

           

He’ll probably be the only housekeeper in the lot.

He has brilliant green eyes.

A four inch spiked Mohawk, shaved on the side.

Piercings in lip, brow, nose… and other interesting places

He’s adept at playing cards, annoying his elder brothers, using Google, and spending money.

Oh- he’s pretty darn good at loving, too.

Mischa Blake:  “I love my Porsche, yes, but I love Donovan more.  You can keep it. I’ve got everything I need right here.”

            :

           

When the voting link goes, live- I’ll let you know!  Be ready!

Summer's Hottest Hero Contest at ARe

Break out the tequila! 

 Drinks are in order!  

Celebrating is the order of the day!   

Not squeeing- Just... er... chair dancing? 

Just got email from ARe : 

Keeping House is a Finalist in the Summer's Hottest Hero Contest! 

Now let's see if Mischa can make his way through 5 rounds of votes to be this summer's hottest hero!

Want to know more about Mischa?

You can check Keeping House out at ARe

or 

Breathless Press

Pardon me if I bore you over the next little while with voting links and pleas for support... 

And thank you so much, for making this happen, all you wonderful readers!