Thru The Night With a Light From Above

Happy Memorial Day!!

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My Motto's Always Been When It's Right It's Right

Just got the official word on a collection I'm super excited to be a part of. Sweet Confessions, edited by Violet Blue, is available July 1st, but you can pre-order it right here! It contains my story, Smell as Sweet, and I think you should most certainly purchase a copy of your own. Why you ask? Because, from just the few authors I know are a part of the book, it looks to be an amazing collection. Who am I referring to? Well, I'm glad you asked. How does Jeremy Edwards, Rachel Kramer Bussel, Kay Jaybee and Moi hit ya? Sounds pretty good, right? So, check it out.

Also, it looks like another collection has hit the Amazon shelves early. Afternoon Pleasures, edited by Shane Allison is now on sale and you can pick up a copy right here! It contains my story, Dressed to Impress, and I'm waiting, with much anticipation my author copies.

So, that's all the news that's fit to print. I got two stories finished yesterday, so it's back to novella-ville. Wish me luck.
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I Can Rub & Scrub This Old House, 'Til It's Shinin' Like a Dime

This week has already been a hectic one, and it's only Wednesday. My husband went back to work after an extended period of being out of a job. It's going to be a bit adjustment for him, so I'm trying to lighten the load here at home by being an extra good porn writer/housewife. Dinner ready, house clean (well, some of it anyway) and very little for him to worry about while he tries to decompress. Am I the greatest wife or what?

In my attempts to be an extra good porn writer, I'm in the middle of about three different things. My current WIP novella has taken a completely different turn and therefore may be delayed. There are several other shorter pieces I'm working on and trying to finish on time. If only my ideas would take a number. I wish they would pull the tab for their little paper number and take a seat in the waiting room, but they are some damn pushy words.

Until I resurface later this week, here is an excerpt from my story in the awesome new collection, Gritty: Rough Erotic Fiction. It's called Live at the Motel Six. Please to enjoy.

At first, I balked at having a job that took me away so much. Traveling for work always sounds good, until you find yourself in line at the airport, being searched by security for the millionth time. But, it also had its advantages. Phone sex was something that she thought was silly and stupid. Until she found herself alone and horny and her only contact with me was through our cellular provider.

It started out innocently enough; just a few dirty words so I could jerk off on the road. It didn’t take long for it to change. The distance made me bolder. Not seeing each other face to face seemed to open up a completely new world of fantasy, which I was happy to share. In the beginning, I had to push her to tell me more. The garden-variety stuff was okay, but I wanted her to go further. Slowly, she opened up, telling me things that I found mildly shocking, but unbearably arousing. It seemed to work for her, too. Hearing her moan through the speaker of the phone was a poor substitute for the original, but under the circumstances, it proved to be the most comforting part of my day. I wondered sometimes if she was just humoring me, but those fears died one lonely night on the road.

The first night she told me, I have to admit I was stunned. I was laying on the stiff sheets at a Motel 6 in Phoenix, my cell phone pressed between my shoulder and my ear, my cock in my hand. I thought she was just going to talk dirty, like our normal routine. I was expecting something hot, something steamy, like usual. But, that night, after several tequila shots, the words tumbled out of her mouth before she could think to regret them. Not that she ever did. Neither of us did.

Clearly, she had spent too many days horny and alone and all my cajoling had finally pushed her to reveal the big one. She had grown fond of spewing the hottest filth into the phone while we pleasured ourselves, but this was certainly next level stuff. The need seemed to grow more intense, more profound with each frequent flier mile I racked up. That night, she told me exactly what she wanted; shared her biggest fantasy. I could barely breathe as she talked. Words I never expected to hear were oozing through the phone into my ear. It was my own fault; I had basically begged her to do it. Now, there was no going back.

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You're Filthy Cute and Baby You Know It

When I stumbled upon a call for submission from Sommer Marsden a few months ago, my interest was piqued. It was asking for dirty stories. Really, really dirty stories. So, I dusted off a story (of course making sure it wasn't too clean) and sent it away. Sommer said yes nearly immediately and now, the book, Gritty: Rough Erotic Fiction is available very soon from December Ink.

It features some amazing writers, such as Justine Elyot, Parker Ford, Quinn Gabriel, Shanna Germain, Alison Tyler, Aisling Weaver, Willsin Rowe, Rita Winchester and of course, Sommer herself. Check back soon for the release date. Meanwhile, check out the book trailer and gaze lovingly at the cover, which doubles as my Man Candy this week. But, really, it's candy for everyone!

*Update* It turns out today is the release day for Gritty!! Go right here to get your copy and tell a friend!!


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There Are Rooms in This House That I Don't Open Anymore

It has been a very busy week. It started with a wonderful trip to Baltimore on Sunday to see the lovely Kristina Wright read from her book, Dream Lover. Also there was the fabulous Emerald, who I hadn't seen if forever. After the reading, we enjoyed a delicious dinner and along with my husband, Anthony and Kristina's friend Nick, we had quite a lovely time.

After that, it was back to work on my current work in progress. It is another novella, and it has been giving me fits. In my head, it is going so smoothly, but as soon as I sit down to put the words on the blank computer page in front of me, something gets lost in the translation. I keep working on it, but I'm just not sure how it's all going to turn out. I'll keep you posted.

My house is a mess. That is another side effect of all this typing. I keep meaning to get to it, but there is always something else vying for my attention. Just another thing that keeps sliding down my to-do list. Oh well, at least I'm the only one, besides my husband, who usually has to see it in this condition.

But, the vacuuming will just have to take a backseat to my characters for a little while longer. What can I say? You have to have priorities!
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I'm So Tired, My Mind Is On The Blink

I'm a little too tired to write much right now, but I will have more to say this week. I had every good intention of posting more last week, but Blogger seemed to have other ideas. Anyway, for now, enjoy the Man Candy. And, stay tuned for more news and such. Happy Monday, everyone!
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Go Go Go Go Now, Out of The Nest

I hope you all had a lovely Mother's Day. I know I did. My mother is the greatest. I know everyone says that, but she truly is the most fabulous mom of all time. Every time I see her, I am amazed all over again at her ability to love and her selflessness. Mary Jane Landis is a saint!! This weekend just proved that point even more. Love you Lady!

As promised, I have the cover for my upcoming novella, All Expenses Paid. When I first saw it, I fell in love completely. I really can't wait for this one to come out. So, please to enjoy my Man Candy/Novella cover. It comes out on June 26th. More details to come!


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Your Prince's Crown Cracks and Falls Down

Wow, what a freaking weekend, huh? I mean, where do I start? Royal wedding, hanging out with friends, writing up a storm and the news of the death of a horrible, awful, evil terrorist. The normal mundane activities of life sandwiched right between the biggest news on the earth. Sometimes, it is hard to believe how quickly things can change. This world really does turn on a dime. I feel like I need to stop for a moment and take a deep breath. It's been a hell of a few days.

On a completely unrelated and writerly note, The Handsome Prince, an amazing new anthology, edited by Neil Plakcy, is available early and contains my story, The Prince of Tires. Follow the link to pick up your own copy!!

Soon, I will have more news about my new novella, which I can wait to share. In the meantime, know that for just this moment, the world is alright. Let the Man Candy soothe you (it seemed appropriate, what with the wedding and the anthology. Looking good, Prince Harry). Happy Monday, all!!
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Would You Lie With Me and Just Forget the World?

In honor of With This Ring, I Thee Bed, I thought I'd give you all just a little taste of my story, Speak Now. It's not your typical wedding story, but I just love it. I hope you do too. Please to enjoy.

He smirked, setting the flashlight on the dresser. The circle of light gave the room an eerie glow. He ran his hand over the back of his neck, his unease obvious. I sat down on the edge of the bed and watched him pace around the room.

“So, what are you doing here, Trevor? Don’t tell me its cold feet?”
“You knew I was coming. I sent in my little card.”
“I guess I just thought . . . I don’t know what I thought.”

He picked up the invitation, looking at it like he’d never seen it before. I watched his eyes, moving over each word in silence. Hitting it against his hand, he looked at me. Even in the dim light, I could still see the apprehension all over his face.

“It’s been too long, Greg.”
“Well, you know. Life has gotten a little complicated.”
“Tell me about it. I understand now why people elope. It is amazing that people get married at all.”

He walked towards me, sitting down gently on the brand new double bed. I could smell the alcohol on him, but he didn’t seem drunk. I decided to placate him, despite my churning stomach.

“I know you and Jessica will be happy together.”
“How can you be so sure?”

I looked at his face for the joke, but I found his face serious and stern. He looked scared. I didn’t know what to say to him.

“I just assumed you were sure before you asked her.”

I tried to laugh, but it died when his arm draped over my shoulder, our hips touching as we sat on the fluffy duvet. Trevor turned and looked at me, but I didn’t return his gaze. I couldn’t. I didn’t trust myself to see his eyes in that moment. He leaned closer to me, his lips right by my ear.

“Can I tell you a secret, Greg? Right now, I’m not sure at all.”

His breath was hot, but not as hot as his tongue, which swept across my ear lobe, shocking my mouth right open. Trevor, always one to take advantage, pulled my open mouth to his, kissing me deeply. I knew I should stop him, push him away, but I just let myself be kissed, let my tongue swirl around with his. Finally, reason took over and I managed to get free from Trevor’s strong grip. Standing up, I tried to quell the panic rising in my throat.

“Don’t, Trevor. Don’t.”

He followed me, not letting me go easily. His hands pulled at my waist, trying to get me back in his arms. I resisted, backed away. But, I only ended up against the wall, Trevor pinning me to the freshly changed wallpaper. It smelled of plastic and I willed my mind to focus on that, or anything but the feel of Trevor’s hands.

“Greg. Greg, look at me.”

I gave in, looking into his eyes, and I saw it. The same look I’d seen the first day we met, all
those years ago.

“Come on Greg. Don’t be mad at me.”
“You said this was over. That we were over. You’re about to be a married man. Don’t fuck with me, Trevor.”
“You could always do that. Make it all sound so easy. It’s not, you know.”
“It may not be easy, but it is simple. You love her, don’t you?”
“She has nothing to do with us.”
“She has everything to do with us.”
“I know what I said to you, but it’s not over. At least, it’s not for me. You left, but I could never get you out of my head. Or my heart. Tell me it’s over for you, Greg. Tell me you don’t love me anymore.”
“I can’t do that, Trevor.”
“So, ask me to stay.”

He smiled at me, his face softening at my encouraging words. But, I couldn’t give him
what he wanted.

“I can’t.”

He crisped up a little, bracing before he spoke again.

“Then, tell me to leave.”
“You know I can’t do that either.”

His fingers traced down my cheek, the cool slip of his thumb pressed over my bottom lip. My mind was being torn in two. The man I loved wanted me again, but I knew that come morning, he’d be gone, standing in a tuxedo in the front of the Lutheran church. While my brain screamed for reason, my heart leaped in my chest.

“What do you want me to do, Trevor? Tell me what to do.”
“Kiss me, Greg.”

It wasn’t easy or simple. I knew it. But, I shut it all out as I leaned forward, our mouths meeting in a fury of emotion, making up for every missed opportunity.
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I Should Take That Volume Back Up off the Shelf and Crack Its Weary Spine and Read to Help Remind Myself

This is my 401st blog post. I barely noticed the number at first, until yesterday, when I found myself too damn tired to write anything of consequence. So, my 400th post went by as almost an afterthought, just a little extra Easter candy after a weekend of way too much chocolate. But, there is more I want to say. Most definitely.

I got my author copy of With This Ring, I Thee Bed, the other day. I sat there, staring at the gorgeous blue cover and then I started to thumb through the pages and admiring all the amazing writers that were contained in the collection. I was truly dumbfounded by the talent within, and I let myself feel insanely proud to be a part of it all. Alison Tyler is the first editor to take a chance on me, and when I see how far I've come, it's hard not to feel a little overwhelmed by it all. I mean, it's freakin' Harlequin, baby!! Again! I'm extremely proud of my story, Speak Now, and am honored to a part of this collection. In fact, that is something I can say about every single story in every single book/website/etc. I'm damn proud of it all, the whole journey and how much I've grown. There. I've said it. And, the sky didn't fall. How about that?

It's still sometimes hard to believe it's been less than three years since I've started doing this. I feel like I've been writing forever, but in my wildest dreams, I never thought I'd ever be here. It so easy to let the moments pass and barely look at them. But, I couldn't do that this time. I just needed to take a moment and reflect on it all. Sometimes, I get so caught up in the deadlines, word counts and new ideas that I don't take the time to just sit back and say, Damn!! I did that! Sure, I mention my latest stuff on the blog, but I never really get to talk about it like other people talk about their jobs. I'm still not sure why. I guess I'll have to save that for another post.

I went to Borders a few days ago, and was so happy to see that the erotica section had returned after an unexplained hiatus, and there on the shelves were several collections containing my stories. It was all I could do to not yell at the passing people, "Hey everyone, I have a smutty story in that book right there!!" I didn't, but mostly because I used to work there and still know the manager. :) I did, however, turn those books so the covers were facing forward and at eye level. Hey, a girl can drop a few hints, can't she? My version of shouting from the roof tops felt pretty good, and hopefully it might result in a few sales.

So, in this, my 401st post, I wanted to take just a moment and look back at it all. Take stock, take it all in. And, sprain my wrist just a bit patting myself on the back. Now, back to my new WIP. The journey never ends, I just needed a pit stop.
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I've Been Cheating Gravity and Waiting on the Falls

I'm still in my post-Easter coma, so I don't have much to say at the moment. Check back tomorrow, when I'll have quite a bit to say. In the meantime, enjoy some delicious Man Candy. Mmmmm, surfies!!
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Hippity Hoppity, Happy Easter Day!

Happy Easter Everyone!!

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I'm a Sucker for a Kind Word, and I'll Just Hurt Until I Find One

I am hurting. My body is betraying me lately, I guess my old age is catching up to me. My general soreness is becoming much more prevalent than I'd like. I guess this is what I get for trying to work out. And for sitting in a ridiculously stupid way while I clack away on my laptop.

But, the plus side is that while I convalesce, I have time to write more. Which I need to do to get everything done. Sometimes, you just have to play through the pain and the new WIP is going to be a marathon, not a sprint. Oh well, at least the Man Candy always makes things easier.

On a positive note, it looks like the fabulous Harlequin collection, With This Ring, I Thee Bed, with my story, Speak Now, edited by the amazing Alison Tyler, is available from Amazon.com a little early. Go, right now and pick up a copy, you won't be sorry.
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Written For Anyone to Read and to See

Just wanted to stop by quickly and mention the fact that College Boys won the TLA Gaybie award for Best Erotic Fiction!! The collection is absolutely fantastic and contains my story, Right Way Wrong Way.

That is all. As you were.
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