Catherine Spangler's Universe

Saying good-bye to Ronda Thompson

2007-07-28T15:57:00.000-05:00

Many of you have already heard about Ronda Thompson’s passing on July 11 of this year. I’ve seen several posts about her. As usual, I’m late chiming in, but I couldn’t let her passing go unmentioned, because she was a special, talented woman who died way too young (age 51). But she didn’t pass without leaving her mark, both as an author whose quirky paranormal romances were beloved by many readers, and as a person with a heart as big as Texas.

Ronda was as quirky as her books, with a wicked sense of humor, an infectious laugh, a very feminine appreciation for hunky men, and a general nuttiness and sense of fun that just drew people to her. She often wore outrageous “hippy-style” clothing and big colorful jewelry that fitted her tall frame and flamboyant style. Ronda was . . . well . . . she was Ronda!

One of my favorite stories is the “Ronda Steals a Purse” saga. I believe it was the first time I met Ronda, and her friend and fellow author, Jennifer Archer, and it was 1999. They had come to Dallas for a mini conference and a large group of authors were attending a Waldenbooks book signing at Northeast Mall. We were all seated outside the bookstore, and gabbing and having a great time. Ronda and I had been corresponding online for months, and with this first personal meeting, we were old friends. At one point, Ronda announced to me, “I’m going inside to buy your book.” I was all in favor of that! She stood and went in.

A few minutes later, Jennifer Archer decided to go inside, too, only to discover her purse was gone! Panicked, we looked everywhere. Yep, the purse was gone, probably taken by a sneaky, devious passer by. Jennifer was very distraught, as you might imagine, and security was alerted. Soon we were talking the mall security personnel. Just as they were writing up a report, out walks Ronda with an adorable confused expression. “This isn’t my purse!” she holds up Jennifer’s purse. Well, duh. We hadn’t noticed Ronda’s purse beneath the table—only that Jennifer’s purse was missing. We had a good laugh over that, and I often teased Ronda through the years about being a purse thief.

That’s only one of many wonderful memories I have of her. Over the years, we met at conferences many times, and we’d have a drink and discuss our books, our publishers, our lives. She was always funny, yet sincere and concerned about others. She was warm and had that special vibe that made everyone around her feel good. Being with Ronda was like savoring an ice cream cone on July 4th in the Texas heat.

The lady was special. She’ll live on her entertaining books, and in the warm and fun memories she bequeathed to everyone who knew her.

Ronda, we love you and we miss you.

SALE!

2007-07-07T10:38:00.001-05:00

I sold another book! It’s the third book in the Sentinel Series, and is titled Touched by Light. It’s Adam and Julia’s story. You’ll get to meet them in Touched by Fire (out in October). There’s also a teaser from Touched by Light in the back of TBF.

Even after seven books, and a novella, a sale is always exciting. Not the screaming out loud, calling-everyone-you-know-even-your-best-friend’s-dog, drinking champagne from cowboy-boot mugs (okay, so I’m a little strange) kind of excitement. But it’s still very cool. And it keeps me in the writing game. Nothing like a contract hanging over your head to glue you to the computer 

So please feel free to celebrate on my behalf. Glass of wine, some chocolate, a trip to your favorite bookstore—whatever makes you happy. And have a fabulous weekend!

~ Catherine

I'm back!

2007-07-01T17:32:00.000-05:00

Okay, I’m back in the blogging business again, and looking forward to some fun times. I know from experience that there are a lot of great people out there, and lots of stuff to talk about.

To bring you up to date, the first book in my new Sentinel series, TOUCHED BY DARKNESS, came out in January. The second book, TOUCHED BY FIRE, comes out in October (October 2, to be exact, but I’m not fixated on it, or anything). I’m currently working on two more books in the series, TOUCHED BY LIGHT and TOUCHED BY DEMONS. Quite a few people have tagged these books paranormal thrillers. In a way, they are, but they’re also romances, because that’s what I write. The characters and the relationship are always foremost in my books. If you’ve read TOUCHED BY DARKNESS, let me know what type of story you think it is.

~ Catherine

Come to a blog party!

2006-07-24T13:41:00.000-05:00

Ready to party? Then you're in luck. Lucy Monroe is holding a blog party this entire week (Monday July 24-Saturday July 29), partly for the authors who aren't attending the RWA national conference in Atlanta this week, and partly just for fun. Guest authors will be blogging every day, and lots of prizes are being given away. To participate in the prize drawings, all you have to do is come by and comment on the posts. I'm a guest poster today and again on Friday. We are having a blast!

Drop in if you have a chance. The link is: http://www.lucymonroeblog.blogspot.com/

Hope to see you there.

~ Catherine

A day in the writing life . . .

2006-07-21T12:35:00.000-05:00

Now that's an original title-ha! And since this post is about my writing habits, it should really be titled "(Mis)Adventures in Writing". I don't know if it's a side effect of getting older, or the 'revenge of the hormones', or just general dementia setting in, but I don't seem to be able to concentrate like I once did. When I first started writing, I was eager, enthusiastic, full of ideas. I couldn't wait to escape my other life (children, husband, pets, "real" job, etc.) and go to the sanctuary of my office, fire up the computer and create. I spent every spare minute in front of that computer, writing, writing, writing. Of course, that was also before I knew anything about the true nature of the publishing world (that's another story).That was when I truly believed the book I was writing was the next NYT bestsller (crazy, huh?). It was also just before the explosion of the Internet and the Devil's spawn, *E-mail*. I could happily spend hours writing, and being very productive.

Fast forward twelve plus years later, with five books published, two more books and a novella coming out in 2007. Great publisher, great editor, book contract, a few awards under my belt (which, by the way is much tighter now--life is so unfair!). I have a book deadline approaching (January 1, 2007). Therefore, I have a book I'm obligated to write. Let's look at my writing day now . . .

Saturday morning: Crawl out of bed much later than I'd planned (oh well, I needed to catch up on my sleep). Stumble downstairs, get a cup of coffee, take a few slugs, wait for the jolt of caffeine (thank you!). Then I go to the downstairs computer and check e-mail (both addresses). After that, while waiting for the caffeine to kick a little harder, I play a few hands of solitare to help me wake up. Time to write, but wait-I need to do my stretching routine first (stupid getting-older body). So, fifteen minutes of stretching. Time to write-wait, I'm starving, and a writer needs fuel. Breakfast (and I have to read while I eat). The book is so good, I read a few chapters before I finally put it down. Would you look at that-it's already 11:00, and I have to write ten pages today.

Okay. Get more coffee, get glass of water, trudge to the upstairs computer. Since it's been at least an hour, I have to check e-mail again. Oh, and I have to check my book rankings on Amazon. And, oh yes, I have to stare at my new book cover and engage in a few fantasies. Time to write-finally I pull up the file with the current WIP. Have to read what I wrote last session, have to tweak and edit a little. Done. Oh, look, some new e-mails! Oh, now, I'm getting sleepy. Stand up and walk around. Back to the writing. Only my muse is not cooperating (and Nora Roberts says the muse thing is a myth-what does she know? Oh, wait, a lot . . .) So, to give my muse time to engage, I play a few hands of solitare. Back to the WIP. Oh, wait, there's more e-mail. Okay, back to the WIP. Oh, wait, I need new music. What to play? Back to the WIP . . . Gee, I'm sleepy. *Really* sleepy. I can't possilby write like this. Maybe a short nap. Curl up on the bed with the electronic timer. Maybe just read one chapter of this book before I nap. After all it is Saturday, and I deserve some down time. 30 minutes later, I close the book and take a 20 minute nap. I wake up, ready to write. Wait-I'm starving. Must be time for lunch, and more coffee.

Get the picture? This isn't pretty, but it's real. And it goes on like this until around 4:00 or 5:00, when my muse finally grabs me by the hair and says, "All right, you b*tch! Cut it out! Let's get this show on the road. START WRITING!" And believe it not, the writing actually starts flowing. I don't usually get my ten pages at this point (have I mentioned I have issues with goal setting?) but I'll get the flow of creativity going, and get out 4-5 pages, which sets me up for . . . Sunday.

But that's another (mis)adventure. Every week, I tell myself I'm going to do better, get started on my writing earlier in the day, get really serious, focus more, be more Nora-esque. But by the time Saturday rolls around, I'm tired, frazzled, and creatively-challenged. And every Monday morning, when I go to my other job, I bemoan the fact that I didn't use my time more wisely, didn't get more done. And I resolve to do better the next weekend. Hope springs eternal.

But you know what--I do usually manage to meet my contracted deadlines (or come close) and somehow-*somehow*-the book gets done. It's a mystery to me!

~ Catherine

Got Aliens?

2006-07-21T12:20:00.000-05:00

Susan Grant is back, in full form! This groundbreaking, innovative, RITA-award winning author is known for taking chances, creating alternate worlds with hunky alien heros and lots of sexual tension. Here she is, doing it again, with YOUR PLANET OR MINE? Details below. Head out to your local interplanetary bookstore to get your copy.

Happy reading,

~ Catherine

YOUR PLANET OR MINE by Susan Grant
(HQN Books, July 25, 2006)

Think the grocery store is a great place to meet men?

Hunky interstellar fugitive, aisle 5.

With outrageously false accusations piling up against her famous political family and an ex-fiancé in hot water determined to take her down with him, the last thing Jana Jasper needs is more trouble--especially man trouble. But when she heads to the grocery store for an ice cream fix, not only does the muscled hunk in the frozen foods section ranting about spaceships and invasions look crazy, he looks... familiar.

Cavin of Far Star has never forgotten the girl he met during his weeks spent on that quaint little world, planet Earth, the girl who didn't believe he was real. And now he'll risk his future to save her. All she has to do is take him to her leader. Simple enough plan--although Jana isn't so easily convinced. Hell-bent on charming his way past her defenses, he's determined to stay one step ahead of the galaxy's most feared assassin--and may just capture his favorite Earthling's heart in the process.

Excerpt:
http://www.susangrant.com/books/planet.htm

ABOUT SUSAN GRANT
One of the first women in history to attend the US Air Force Academy, a former Air Force instructor pilot, and currently a 747 jumbo jet pilot for United Airlines, New York Times best-seller and RITA winner Susan Grant loves writing about what she knows -- flying, adventure, and the delicious interaction between men and women.

REVIEWS
"...one of the best books of the year!" - Mary Janice Davidson, New York Times bestselling author
“...a cute, quirky otherworldly romance that’s totally delightful to read!” -- Tanzey Cutter
“Veers uncomfortably close to our actual plans to invade your pitiful little planet. Pull this book from the shelves immediately or I shall have it vaporized!” -- General Neppal, Supreme Commander of the Coalition fleet

Website: http://www.susangrant.com

Now that's attitude!

2006-07-13T21:02:00.000-05:00

I love the premise of ANGEL WITH ATTITUDE by Michell Rowen, and I think the cover is fabulous. There's just something appealing about fallen angels and demons that are sexy as hell (if you'll pardon the pun). I'm sure you'll agree with me. Grab this up for a great summer read. Details below.

Happy reading!

~ Catherine

ANGEL WITH ATTITUDE by Michelle Rowen
(Warner Forever, July 2006)

When you're hot for a demon, you might as well kiss your halo good-bye...

Falling naked into the killer whale tank at MarineLand is always bad news, but it's a real bummer when you've just been kicked out of Heaven. Former angel Valerie Grace is determined to reverse her banishment-Earth's just no fun.

Her best friend is a slightly perverted human-turned-rat, and she's being tailed by a sexy Tempter Demon named Nathaniel, who's trying to lure her to hell with kisses that are almost worth the trip. With the talking rodent sneaking peeks down her shirt and Nathaniel getting more irresistible every minute, this ex-angel has only one hope: find the stolen Key to Heaven and go home.

Then the oddest thing happens-Nathaniel starts to show signs of loyalty and love. And soon Val is asking herself if it is such a bad thing to have the hots for a demon.

Excerpt:
http://www.michellerowen.com/ex-angelwithattitude.shtml

ABOUT MICHELLE ROWEN
Michelle Rowen was born in Toronto, Ontario. As a child she decided that when she grew up she would become a flight attendant, a jewel thief, or a writer. One out of three ain't bad. She is a self-confessed bibliophile, the proud owner of an evil cat named Nikita, Reality TV junkie, and has an unhealthy relationship with all things Buffy the Vampire Slayer.

REVIEWS

Rowen does a delightful job mixing things up with her sassy and sexy characters. She has her own unique spin on life and the afterlife and good and evil, which makes for downright fun reading. 4 stars – Romantic Times

ANGEL WITH ATTITUDE is such a fun story...Michelle Rowen has proven herself to be an ace storyteller with a truly fresh and sharp sense of humor. I'm officially a fan! -- Lani Diane Rich, RITA Award-winning author

An amusing heavenly romance with a hell of a price to pay for not reading it. -- Harriet Klausner

Website: http://www.michellerowen.com

New life, sad heart

2006-07-05T17:52:00.000-05:00

I should probably wait to write this post when I'm not so emotional. But that's what we writers create, isn't it? Emotion, the spiritual and mental heartbeats of our characters-the characters whom (hopefully) readers care about and root for. Today, I'm writing about my own emotions-feelings of sadness and pride and inevitablity, and even grief. This afternoon, my oldest child, my 23-year-old son Jim, left for Vienna, Austria. Not just a pleasure trip to Europe, but a move that could quite possibly be permanent. He's in love with a wonderful Austrian girl, whom he met when she was an exchange student at his college. She had to return home, Jim has completed his two degrees, and he's decided to go to Austria to be with her. He hopes to find a job teaching Enlish as a second language, and has very good odds of success, as there is supposedly a demand for native English speakers. Plus he's going to have a wonderful time there, stopping in London for a few days to visit a friend, vacationing in Italy with his girlfriend and her family. He plans to travel and see the world. What opportunity! What fun! And oh, to experience young love again!

So I'm also feeling wistfulness, wishing I could go explore the world. And I'm feeling old (and overweight, and staring at gray hair roots), and I know a part of my life is over. I'm not really Mom any more. Yeah, I'll always be Jim's mother, but I won't ever again be a main player. And our house is no longer his house. As long as he was four hours away in Austin, I knew he would come home for holidays, and we could always go down there to see him. He still had his room at "home". But this weekend, we cleaned out his room, and his closet, and his chest. He packed up books to give away, cleared out a large part of his life. Some of his clothes and books remain, but I suspect they'll go in the next "pass", and then all traces of it being his room will be gone forever.

Even though I know life will go on, I feel bereft, empty, and even without purpose. Regrets, too, that I didn't do more as a mother, make more memories, take more pictures, capture more special moments, etc. There's a sadness in knowing I can never go back, can never reclaim lost opportunities. And a fear that maybe I'm getting too old to have more opportunities, that my best years are gone. Empty Nest Syndrome-big time. I know a lot of these feelings will pass, and that I'm moving on to a new phase in my life, but I'm not sure what the new me wants to do. Or if I'll have the energy and the creativity and the excitement that I had when I was younger.

But I can't give up, can I? I have a lot of good years left (so I keep telling myself). Getting better with age, right? Still, I'll grieve for that part of my life that's gone, and my heart will ache for a while. I'll indulge myself in chocolate and wine, before I get back on the diet (those 10 pounds just won't go away). And back to the exercise (geez, get a little older, and the body falls apart). And I'll resolve to make the remaining years count, to try to live them to the fullest and savor life. I'll try to regularly use my favorite Hebrew phrase: L'Chiam - To Life!

And you know . . . I think I might just keep on writing. Creating characters, stories, emotions. I've got lots of fodder for the emotional part!

~ Catherine

What, No Roses?

2006-07-05T10:49:00.000-05:00

Marianne Mancusi is known for her hip, snappy dialog and fun, quirky stories. WHAT, NO ROSES? promises to be classic Mancusi. Check it out!

Happy reading,

~ Catherine

WHAT, NO ROSES? by Marianne Mancusi
(Love Spell, July 4, 2006)

And you thought your Valentine's Day was bad?

AND ALL THAT JAZZ
Unless Dora Duncan can stop it, it's going to be another St. Valentine's Day Massacre. A year ago, her (now ex) boyfriend Nick stood her up at the worst possible moment. That was when she gave up important TV reporting for stories like "Too Stressed for Sex." And though such clips have a certain relevance, things have been a whole lot quieter. Too quiet. Until now.

Now she's gotta go back in time (don't ask!) and stop that very same Nick from messing up the time-space continuum. She has to travel back to a place where everybody speaks easy and cuts a rug-and this Chicago ain't no musical. Here, there are tommy guns and torpedoes, guys and dolls, gin joints, flappers, stoolies, rats and a whole lot more; and prohibition means anything but no.

It's the 1920s. Time for Dora to roar.

Excerpt:
http://www.dorchesterpub.com/Dorch/SpecialFeatures.cfm?Special_ID=2107

ABOUT MARIANNE MANCUSI

When not out exposing scams and righting wrongs, Emmy award–winning TV news producer Marianne Mancusi is probably writing.
Her first chick lit novel, "A Connecticut Fashionista in King Arthur's Court" was called "a sparkling debut" by Publisher's Weekly. And Romantic Times magazine awarded four Stars to her upcoming 1920s time travel "What, No Roses?", pronouncing it "fast, funny and as bubbly as bathtub champagne."
In addition, Marianne has six other adult and teen books under contract, including a teen comedy vampire series from Berkley called "Boys that Bite."
She lives in Boston's historic North End.

REVIEWS

Mancusi’s witty, tongue-in-cheek remarks and sprightly dialogue make for a joy ride of a read with an ending that’s as surprising as it is original. 4 stars – Romantic Times

Ms. Mancusi’s sense of comedic and dramatic timing is dead on... She masterfully blends a time in our history with an idea from her incredible imagination. – Once Upon a Romance

Website: http://www.mariannemancusi.com

TOUCHED BY DARKNESS

2006-06-21T20:35:00.000-05:00

My new book cover is here, and I'm very excited about it! It really reflects the tone of the book, which will be out January 2007. If you'd like to read some excerpts from TOUCHED BY DARKNESS, along with my article on Atlantis, please visit my website at www.catherinespangler.com.

Thank you, cover fairies!

~ Catherine

Great Enchiladas

2006-06-15T13:16:00.000-05:00

Hey all, I thought I'd share my new favorite recipe. I like it because it's fast and easy (an absolute prerequisite for me), delicious, versatile, and goes very well with those summer margaritas! Here it is:

Bean Enchiladas (Vegetarian, but not Vegan)

**1 to 1-1/2 cans (15 ounce) refried beans (I like the black beans the best), or you can make your own beans.
**1 8-oz package cream cheese
**1 small can (around 4 ounces) chopped green chiles.
**Regular or garlic salt to taste.
Mix all these ingredients together, adding more beans if you need them. Then spoon onto:
**10-12 whole wheat or whole grain tortillas
Roll up the tortillas, place in a glass baking dish (spray with non-stick spray first) and cover with:
**2 medium cans (8.5 ounces) of green enchilada sauce (or red, if you prefer)
**Grated cheese, your choice, for the final layer.
Bake at 400 degrees for about 25 minutes (note: you might want to wait to add the cheese until the last 10 minutes or so).

If you prefer meat in your enchiladas, substitute about two-three cups chopped cooked chicken for the beans. They're just as good.

Oh, yes, and don't forget the margaritas or a Tecate or Corona beer to go with them!

Happy eating,

~ Catherine

Gotta love those bad-boy werewolves!

2006-06-09T17:33:00.000-05:00

Rebecca York’s bad-boy werewolves have returned, this time with Lance Marshall’s story. If you like paranormal elements, a fast-paced story, and great sexual tension, check out Rebecca’s “Moon” books. You’ll be glad you did. Details below.

Happy reading!

~ Catherine

SHADOW OF THE MOON by Rebecca York
(Berkley, June 6, 2006)

Lance Marshall has a nose for great news stories-not surprising, since he's aided by his werewolf abilities. Now he's prowling outside an ultra-exclusive Washington, D.C. nightclub-"The Castle." But he is not alone. Savannah Carpenter wants to know how her sister ended up in a coma, and she knows that The Castle has something to do with it. But when Lance and Savannah pretend to be lovers to gain entrance, they learn that deception and unbridled lust can be a dangerous combination.

Excerpt:
http://mywebpages.comcast.net/glick/sneak-p24.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

The York werewolf moon novels contains several excellent paranormal romantic suspense tales (see CRIMSON MOON), but SHADOW OF THE MOON may be the best of the series so far. The action-packed story line is fast-paced and filled with sexual tension accentuated by the danger that the audience will taste as if we have the enhanced sense of a werewolf. The lead couple is a delightful pairing as they investigate the goings on at the club, what happened to Charlotte, and the attraction between them in a gripping thriller. – Harriet Klausner

Fans get to meet yet another Marshall boy in Rebecca York’s latest novel about the werewolf clan, SHADOW OF THE MOON.
This time it's freelance reporter Lance Marshall and he's scented out a story on an very exclusive D.C. establishment that he's heard rumors about, the Eighteen Club.. . .
As if werewolves, psychic abilities and lifemates aren't enough, York adds yet another element to her werewolf series in SHADOW OF THE MOON. It makes for excellent reading. -- http://fromthestacksmacon.blogspot.com

York’s highly popular werewolf tales take an even more intriguing turn in this new story. The sexual tension is taut and the story crisp, which keeps up the momentum. The small side plot is an engrossing teaser for the next chapter in this quite compelling saga. 4 ½ stars – Romantic Times

Website: http://www.rebeccayork.com

IMPORTANT: Keeping the Internet Neutral

2006-05-18T19:32:00.000-05:00

Hey everyone,

I make it a point to keep this blog basically non-political, because the main purpose of this blog is to discuss writing, books, life in general. And let's face it: politics is a hot button for most of us, and me discussing my views probably won't change anyone else's views. But here's an issue that could affect *all* of us, regardless of our political persuasions. There is some legislation being considered in Congress which could drastically change the Internet. Some of the big telecommunications companies (AT&T, Verizon) are lobbying Congress to end "Network Neutrality", which basically ensures that every online site has the right to be on the Internet, and to download properly. If these big companies get their way, they will have control over the Internet and will be able to determine whose sites will download quickly and properly. Online companies like Google, Amazon, B&N, etc., would have to pay "protection money" to these companies, and the highest bidders would have the best downloading venues. This can't be good and it could affect everything on the Internet, including blogs. You can get more information by going to the following link:

http://civic.moveon.org/save_the_internet/

I hope you'll take a little time to learn more about this movement to bleed money from Internet sites, and if you believe it's a bad thing, to sign the petition and to let your congressmen/women and representatives know how you feel about it. Regardless of your political views, I urge all of you to educate yourselves about congressional issues and to speak out for what you want. Our congressional representatives *do* listen to their constituents. Let your voices be heard.

Thanks for letting me be political this one time.

Oh, and happy reading.

~ Catherine

American Idol Blues

2006-05-17T15:32:00.000-05:00

Okay, I've been watching American Idol every week. And to be honest, I haven't been able to get as fired up about these contestants as I have in the past. None have them have been consistently good like some of the previous Idols (Kelly Clarkson, Fantasia, and Carrie Underwood were steady throughout). That said, I think Katharine has been getting the bad end of the deal. Is it just me, or have the judges been really hard on her, even when she's done a great performance? I thought all three of her performances last night (May 16) were great (as did my husband and a friend who's an avid "Idoler"). And yet the only one any of the three judges liked was "Over the Rainbow" (which I agree was absolutely spectacular). I've seen this pattern of criticizing Kat in earlier shows this season as well. Conversely, I've seen the judges praise other performances that just didn't do it for me. Of course, judging is always subjective and in this case, is probably colored by the personal relationships the judges share with the contestants. But still.

I think the final two contestants should have been Chris and Kat. But I'm afraid we're going to end up with Elliot and Taylor facing off. Don't get me wrong--they're great singers and appear to be nice guys. But in my opinion, Kat has the most talent and the best voice. And if she gets voted off tonight, some of the blame will go to the judges, for probably influencing the vote with their comments.

We'll see if my prediction comes true. I hope I'm wrong.

And when you're not watching American Idol, happy reading!

~ Catherine

Midnight Secrets . . . and Dragon Curses

2006-05-14T11:36:00.000-05:00

If you like Victorian and gothic flavor, castles, romantic suspense, and riveting characters, then be sure to put MIDNIGHT SECRETS, by Jennifer St. Giles on your "must-read" list! Intriguing details below.

Happy reading!

~ Catherine

MIDNIGHT SECRETS by Jennifer St. Giles
(Berkeley, May 2, 2006)

"When two are born together, one will die by the other's hand..."

This is the Dragon's Curse that has plagued the Killdarens for generations and continues on in this tale set on the Cornish Coast of 1879 England.

Sean and Alex thought they'd escaped the Dragon's curse until in a rage of suspicion and accusation the twins come close to killing each other the night the woman they both loved was murdered. Eight years later, the only thing they agree on is to remain unwed and childless, to never pass on the Dragon's Curse. Then another woman disappears. This time from Sean Killdaren's castle and his reclusive world is shattered when Cassie Andrews, a journalist, goes undercover as a downstairs maid. He can no more ignore her than he can ignore the murderer hiding behind the secrets of Killdaren Castle's stone walls.

Excerpt:
http://www.jenniferstgiles.com/midnightsecrets.shtml

ABOUT JENNIFER ST. GILES
Following the birth of her third child, Jennifer St. Giles quit her job as a nurse and became a home educator to her three children and pursued her life long dream of writing in her "spare time". Jenni lives in a suburb of Atlanta, Georgia with her husband of twenty-three years, her three children, two cats, one dog, and a two-handfuls of neighborhood kids who make the household the wildest most wonderful Grand Central Station in existence.

REVIEWS

St. Giles brings the classic Gothic to a new sensual level. . .combining dark atmosphere and the twisted plot of great mystery. Four Stars - RT BOOKClub

...a terrific Victorian romantic suspense that grips the reader and the paranormal elements blend in completely... Harriet Klausner

Midnight Secrets incorporates classic Gothic themes with its brooding atmosphere... filled with tragedies and secrets. Susan Wilson

Website: http://www.jenniferstgiles.com

What's your theme?

2006-05-13T17:12:00.000-05:00

Have you ever thought about your individual life theme (or themes, since there can be more than one)? I know this sounds funny, but I believe we all have themes in our lives. It might be personal passions (politics, writing, career choices, etc.), or it might be emotional patterns (nuturing, suffering, always down, enjoying life to the max, etc.) But we have themes. What about the person for whom nothing ever goes right? Or someone who's always in the middle of a major life drama? Or someone who's very religious? Someone who always picks the wrong partners? Musical? Political? Into arts and crafts or decorating? We're usually not aware of these "themes" that run through our lives, but they're relected in how we live, and in turn, we are a reflection of them.

Most authors also have themes in their writing, and it's usually a spillover from their personal lives. Again, we may not be aware of our themes. I'm generally not until either I re-read my work, or someone points it out. After I wrote Shielder, my first published book, one of my critique partners, Linda Castillo, said to me, "Cathy, you wrote about the Halocaust!" I was surprised, because I hadn't consciously tried to do that. But when I looked back at the story (a race of people being sysematically destroyed by another race), added that to my Jewish heritage, I had to conclude that was indeed what I had done.

Another one of my themes is spirituality and the meaning of life. I've been interested in metaphysical topics since I was eleven, and read all sorts of books on Edgar Cayce, our purpose on Earth, astrology, Tarot, etc. Sure enough, that overflows into my books, especially my latest projects--the Sentinel series (based on Atlantis and reincarnation) and my novella, Street Corners and Halos (about a Jewish girl who "dies" in the Halocaust, and is turned into a vampire by an SS soldier). Hmmm. Very interesting.

I believe that understanding the themes running through our lives can help us to lead richer lives, by further tapping into them (if they're positive themes); or conversely, help us to make our lives better, by understanding the negative themes, and working to turn them around, or "re-write" those themes.

Good or bad, uplifting or degrading, consciously or subconsciously, these themes run through our lives, shaping us, making us who we are.

So, what's your theme?

Happy reading,

~ Catherine

Once Upon Stilettos

2006-05-04T13:50:00.000-05:00

How's that for a great title? Even better, ONCE UPON STILETTOS is a sequel to Shanna Swendson's wonderful, fun, chick-fairy-lit book, ENCHANTED, INC. She's created a world where magic, fairies, wizards, elves, and even gargoyles, live among us unsuspecting mortals. They're shielded by magic spells which make them appear normal, so we don't see them. However, a few rare humans (who have absolutely no magic inside them), aren't affected by magic and can see the real creatures walking so calmly around New York City (and the world, in fact). Kate Chandler is one such person. I fell in love with her and the wizard Owen and all the other colorful characters in ENCHANGED, INC., so I'm delighted that ONCE UPON STILETTOS is now available.

Details are below. I hope you'll check it out.

Happy reading,

~ Catherine

ONCE UPON STILETTOS by Shanna Swendson
(Ballantine Books, April 25, 2006)

When we left Katie Chandler at the end of Enchanted, Inc., she had helped her new employers, Magic, Spells, and Illusions, Inc. defeat Phelan Idris, a rogue wizard intent on stealing spells. By her side, and leading the battle, was hunky wizard Owen. Katie and Owen are still fighting their attraction to each other in Shanna Swendson’s hilarious and charming sequel Once Upon Stilettos, but first they have to track down a corporate spy before the company dissolves into paranoia. Then at the worst possible time, Katie's immunity to magic goes on the blink. At least she's having better luck in her social life, with men falling at her feet everywhere she goes. Has she really become that irresistible, or is it the new red shoes she felt compelled to buy? Polish your fairy wings, put on your magic shoes, click your heels three times, and join Shanna Swendson for a romantic romp amidst fairies, goblins, wizards and gargoyles.

Excerpt:
http://www.shannaswendson.com/stilettos.html

ABOUT SHANNA SWENDSON
In addition to writing fiction, Shanna Swendson is a freelance marketing consultant and writer specializing in technology and telecommunications. She is single and lives in Irving, Texas, with her many pet plants, including a vicious attack bougainvillea and a Christmas cactus that has outlasted three homes, three jobs and three boyfriends, yet still faithfully blooms every Christmas and Easter. She’s looking for a man that reliable.

REVIEWS

"Once Upon Stilettos is not to be missed if you're in the mood for a fast and funny read where chicklit meets urban fantasy." -- Mary Jo Putney, author of A Kiss of Fate

"A princely wizard, Cinderella red stilettos, and a megalomaniac--what more could a girl ask for? ONCE UPON STILETTOS is a delightful urban fairytale with a dreamy hero and a country-wise Texas heroine who use their magical and non-magical charms to seek justice and unmask the villain. Just a few weeks in the life of a simple single girl..." -- bestselling author Patricia Rice

Once again Swendson gives her readers a hilarious and delightful romp through the world of magic with a dash of romance thrown in to titillate and make us laugh. -- Andrea Sisco, Armchair Interviews

Website: http://www.shannaswendson.com

American Idol

2006-05-03T14:10:00.000-05:00

I'll admit it--I'm "semi-hooked" on American Idol. Personally, I don't like the preliminary part, where they show the really bad performers and Simon slashes them to shreds. I guess I'm just too soft-hearted for that. But after the "chosen ones" go to Hollywood, and it gets narrowed down to 12 guys and 12 girls, then I like to watch. I'm wowed by the talent and poise of most of these Idol contenders (especially since I'm not known for my singing). Then I'm glued to the set when they perform, sometimes shaking my head over the judges'comments. But I don't watch the vote-off show (again, too soft hearted). Instead, I check the news the next day. I will however, watch the crowning of the American Idol winner show (even though I always feel sorry for the loser--I'm such a wimp!).

So who do I think will win this year? Well, I don't always trust the voters to pick the most talented singers. Point in case: I think Mandisa was one of the most talented singers there, and she got voted off pretty early. We sometimes tend to vote for reasons other than pure talent (she's cute, he's hot, she's from Texas, etc.). That said, who do I think should walk tonight (May 3)? Honestly, of those who are left, I feel Taylor is the weakest. He's cute and Mr. Personality and has a nice little rasp to his voice, but he's just not as talented. I do think there's a possibility that Paris will be voted off instead tonight, although I think she's extremely talented.

My pick for the final three Idol contestants: Katherine, Chris, Elliot.

I'll tell you who my favorite is next week.

Until then, happy Idol watching. And happy reading!

~ Catherine

May Day!

2006-05-01T13:51:00.000-05:00

May has arrived, and with it, my committment to do do better at blogging. I just updated my website and sent out my electronic newsletter, in which I mentioned (probably very foolishly), that I would be blogging three to four times a week, so here goes. BTW, you might want to check my updated site at http://www.catherinespangler.com. I've got excerpts from my upcoming book, The Edge of Darkness, and a new contest going.

As I started this blog today, I began wondering about May Day, and realized it has two different meanings. The first is the celebration of May 1, which I think is hardly ever done in the U.S. any more. But I have vague memories of maypoles and long streamers of ribbons being wrapped around a tall pole, and lots of flowers. But I never really knew what the actual celebration was about. So I did a little Google search, and found this link: http://www.geocities.com/Athens/Forum/7280/beltane.html

Here's some of what it said:

There are four great festivals of the Pagan Celtic year and the modern Witches’ calendar, as well. The two greatest of these are Halloween (the beginning of winter) and May Day (the beginning of summer). Being opposite each other on the wheel of the year, they separate the year into halves . . . . May Day ushers in the fifth month of the modern calendar year, the month of May. This month is named in honor of the Goddess Maia, originally a Greek mountain nymph, later identified as the most beautiful of the Seven Sisters, the Pleiades. By Zeus, she is also the mother of Hermes, God of magic. Maia’s parents were Atlas and Pleione, a sea nymph.

Interesting, at least I thought so. Then I got to thinking about the fact that we also use the phrase "mayday" as a distress signal (very opposite of a spring celebration), and did a Google search on that as well. Here's what I found:

may·day (mā'dā')n. An international radiotelephone signal word used by aircraft and ships in distress. [From French (venez) m'aider, (come) help me!.]

So now you know all about May Day and mayday. And I actually posted to my blog and thought of something to talk about.

And hopefully, I'll be blogging again soon. Until then, happy reading!

~ Catherine

Angela Knight does it again!

2006-04-14T08:53:00.000-05:00

Angela Knight has been creating amazing alternate worlds with hunky heroes and strong heroines and sizzling love scenes for the past few years, and she's still going strong. There's just something alluring and sexy about those bad-boy werewolves, and Angela's 'Master' series is pheonomenal. It's no surprise that this book jumped high on the USA Today Bestseller list shortly after it was released. Way to go, Angela!

Details are below, and happy reading!

~ Catherine

MASTER OF WOLVES by Angela Knight
(Berkeley Sensation, April 4, 2006)

When Jim London's best friend is murdered, Jim vows to catch the killer. Leaving it for the local police to solve is out of the question, because he suspects they are involved.
Jim is more than capable of taking action if they are -- he's a werewolf. Realizing the only way to investigate the department is from the inside, he decides to go undercover -- as a police K-9.
His "handler" is lovely Faith Weston, the only person on the Clarkston Police Department who isn't up to her neck in murder. But Faith has no idea her "dog" Rambo is a werewolf, or that the department she serves is rotten with corruption.
But it doesn't take her long to figure it out.

Excerpt:
http://www.angelasknights.com/masterofwolves.htm

ABOUT ANGELA KNIGHT
Angela Knight's first book was written in pencil and illustrated in crayon; she was nine years old at the time. But her mother was enthralled, and Angela was hooked.
In the years that followed, Angela managed to figure out a way to make a living -- more or less -- at what she loved best: writing. After a short career as a comic book writer, she became a newspaper reporter, covering everything from school board meetings to murders. Several of her stories won South Carolina Press Association awards under her real name. For more of Angela’s interesting bio, visit her website: http://angelasknights.com/bio.htm

Website: http://www.angelasknights.com

A stunning debut from Deidre Knight!

2006-04-05T22:02:00.000-05:00

Wow! First we get to enjoy the gorgeous, sexy cover of Deidre Knight's amazing debut book, PARALLEL ATTRACTION. Now we get to read the book itself. I had the privilege of receiving an advance copy, and it's an intriguing blend of science fiction and romance, along with a lot of passion. This book packs a punch! As she does in the other areas of her life, author Deidre Knight throws her incredible energy, focus and emotion into this book. PARALLEL ATTRACTION will carry you on a journey into other worlds, alternate realities, the bonding of souls, the heat of desire, and the message that love knows no boundaries. Even better, there are more books to come in this unique and riveting series. So buckle your safety harness and come along for the ride.

As always, happy reading!

~ Catherine

PARALLEL ATTRACTION by Deidre Knight
(Signet Eclipse, April 4, 2006)

It has been years since exiled alien king Jared Bennett thought of anything other than his people's fight for freedom. Now his rebel force has the one weapon that can turn the tide against their enemy: the key to the secrets of time. Victory has never been closer-but one woman has the power to change everything.

Kelsey Wells can't deny that there is something unearthly about her fierce attraction to Jared Bennett. His revelations about alien wars and time travel can't possibly be fact-yet with every seductive touch, every searing kiss, Kelsey circles closer to the truth: that although Jared is exactly what he says, he hasn't told her everything. And when the future crashes into the present, Kelsey must decide if his deception will cost them the love that should have been their destiny.

Excerpt:
http://www.deidreknightbooks.com/pa_excerpt.html

ABOUT DEIDRE KNIGHT
Deidre Knight is president of The Knight Agency, which she founded in 1996. Since that time, she has grown the agency to national prominence, landing authors on every major bestseller list. Deidre began her writing career at age nine, when her award-winning essay on Barbie was published in her hometown newspaper, the Atlanta Journal and Constitution. She has been writing in one form or another ever since. After nearly a decade of working with Knight Agency clients, helping them discover their creative potential, her fiction debut with NAL in 2006 marks the fulfillment of her own lifelong writing dream. She is excited to embark on yet another new and fulfilling creative journey.

REVIEWS

Debut author, Deidre Knight, immerses the reader in a world that’s believable, fascinating, and extremely sensual between two people who meld into one as their love escalates. The sensuality builds to a crescendo, the plot plummets your emotion then brings you back, while bating your wishes for more at the end. Completely mesmerizing, PARALLEL ATTRACTION leaves you hoping for more. – Romance Junkies

An intriguing new voice in paranormal fiction has arrived! Knight kicks off an exciting new series that explores the power of conviction and unintended consequences. This novel is chock-full of passion, betrayal and redemption and will certainly leave you wanting more! – Romantic Times

Without a doubt this is one compelling and absolutely phenomenal read! Knight's opening foray into the paranormal world is intensely erotic, passionate, and riveting … In two words, "totally fabulous"! I was instantly caught up in the heart wrenching betrayal of a precious love that was taken from two innocents. … I am so looking forward to seeing more stories … from an author who has brought a highly imaginative and provocative breath of fresh air into the paranormal realm! Brava! Overall Rating: 10 -- Marilyn of www.RomanceDesigns.com

Website: http://www.deidreknight.com
The PARALLEL Experience http://www.deidreknightbooks.com

CRIMSON ROGUE -- An amazing finish

2006-04-05T21:55:00.000-05:00

Liz Maverick created and developed the amazing Crimson City series, writing the first and last installment. She's an innovative author, creating an awesome world with kick-ass action. This final book in the series, CRIMSON ROGUE, got a Romantic Times top pick. Congratulations, Liz. You're at the top of your game with this book. To learn more about the book, check out the information below.

Happy reading,

~ Catherine

CRIMSON ROGUE by Liz Maverick
(Dorchester, April 2006)

From the four strata of Crimson City come rogues: vampire, werewolf, human, demon. These rebels, rakes and unsung heroes have turned their backs on the extravagant vampire skyway, the gritty werewolf underground, the iron-fisted human stronghold and the fiery power of the demon underworld. Walking a thin line between heaven and hell, they make their own rules and follow their own destinies. Ironically, they will be the ones to determine if the City flourishes or fails.

Cydney Brighton knows them well, for she too is now rogue. Having escaped hell, she’s discovered that the City is not what it once was—and neither is she. Only one man understands her, understands what it means to be someone or something beyond control. He’s ready to come out of the darkness; and part-man, part-machine, he’s willing to sacrifice almost anything to make himself whole.

Liz Maverick created and developed Crimson City as a series for Dorchester. The full slate of rockin’ authors and their books is as follows:

Book #1: Crimson City, by Liz Maverick
Book #2: A Taste of Crimson, by Marjorie M. Liu
Book #3: Through a Crimson Veil, by Patti O'Shea
Book #4: A Darker Crimson, by Carolyn Jewel
Book #5: Seduced by Crimson, by Jade Lee
Book #6: Crimson Rogue, by Liz Maverick
http://www.crimsoncity.com

Excerpt:
http://www.dorchesterpub.com/Dorch/SpecialFeatures.cfm?Special_ID=2058

Other links:

Crimson City Hub
http://www.crimsoncity.com

Crimson City city resident’s blog
http://crimsoncity.blogspot.com

ABOUT LIZ MAVERICK
Liz Maverick is a world traveler, novelist, and freelance travel writer whose contract assignments have taken her around the globe. She’s driven trucks in Antarctica, attended university in the New Territories of Hong Kong, and worked on reality TV shows in California. Liz writes women's fiction comedy for Penguin Putnam’s NAL imprint and futuristic/paranormal action romance for Dorchester and Red Sage.

REVIEWS
“An original, dark and fascinating world….” —RT BOOKclub

Website: http://www.lizmaverick.com

Magical Goddess Story

2006-02-17T12:29:00.000-06:00

I fell in love with PC Cast's stories when I read her first book, GODDESS BY MISTAKE. It was wonderful, sexy, creative, and original. I mean, how many books have you read where the hero is a centaur? Since then, PC has written an amazing series of goddess books. Her latest, GODDESS OF THE ROSE, is based on my very favorite fairy tale of all times: Beauty and the Beast. Needless to say, GODDESS OF THE ROSE is definitely my kind of read. I hope all of you will check it out as well. Details below.

Happy reading!

~ Catherine

GODDESS OF THE ROSE by PC Cast
(Berkeley, February 7, 2006)

GODDESS OF THE ROSE is a magical, sensuous retelling of Beauty and the Beast – with a modern slant. Our Beauty, Micki (named after the Mikado Rose), and all the women in her family have a special affinity for roses – their blood, diluted in water and applied during the night of a new moon, makes roses grow spectacularly. What the women don’t know is that they have this ability because they are descendants of a High Priestess of the Goddess Hecate. Hecate is Goddess of Night, Magick, the Crossroads of Man, and of Beasts. She is also the proctrectess of The Realm of the Rose – the place wherein all dreams and magick originate. This realm is guarded diligently by The Guardian, a creature on which the myth of the Minotaur was based. The Guardian swore himself into Hecate’s service for eternity, and in return the Goddess gifted him with the heart and soul of a man, even though he has the body of a beast. But all is not well in The Realm of the Rose. The Guardian made a terrible mistake, arousing the Goddess’s wrath to such an extent that she bespelled him and the realm, and Hecate swore that they would sleep eternally unless the Beast was awakened by a woman who carried the magickal blood of Hecate’s priestess, and was wise enough to see the truth, and compassionate enough to act upon it.

Micki does awaken the Guardian and he abducts her to The Realm of the Rose, thinking that she would automatically break the curse placed on the realm and set things to right, but modern woman Micki is a very unexpected kind of High Priestess, and there are forces at work within the realm, both of love and of hatred that might change the shape of dreams and magick for all of eternity unless Micki is brave enough to make the ultimate sacrifice…

ABOUT PC CAST
Award-winning author PC Cast is a dynamic, entertaining orator and an extraordinary teacher. Currently, her realm is in Oklahoma, where she resides with her daughter and spoiled cat.

REVIEWS

Join Mikki on an adventure to outshine them all -- P.C. Cast’s own version of Beauty and the Beast. Fourth in the author’s Goddess Summoning series, it’s very easy to see Ms. Cast’s love and respect for mythology, and it’s even easier to fall in love with characters that I believe may be her best yet. Romance, fantasy, mystery, and adventure are all threads woven together in this beautiful account of a woman who is clearly fated for greater things. An enchanting tale from beginning to end, GODDESS OF THE ROSE truly deserves RRT’s Perfect 10, an award that is exemplified with each word and every page in P.C. Cast’s latest. -- Amy Cunningham, Romance Reviews Today

Atlantis and romance! What more could you ask for?

2006-02-09T19:40:00.001-06:00

Hey all,

If you're like me, you're intrigued by the stories and myths about Atlantis. And you probably love reading paranormal romance, or you wouldn't be dropping by. Add to that Gena Showalter's great story telling, and you have a winning combination. Be sure to check out her latest book, which just hit the shelves. Details below.

Happy reading!

~ Catherine

JEWEL OF ATLANTIS by Gena Showalter
(HQN Books, February 1, 2006)

Enter a mythical world populated with vampires, dragons, demons and Nymphs…enter a world of dark seduction and powerful magic…enter Atlantis…..

All Atlantis seeks the Jewel of Dunamis, which legend claims can overcome any enemy. Grayson James, human agent for the ultra-secret Otherworld Bureau of Investigation, has orders to keep it from the wrong hands – or destroy it. What he doesn’t know is that Jewel is a woman, not a stone! But once he meets this precious gem, destroying her is the last thing on his mind…

Jewel, part goddess, part prophet, is a pawn in Atlantis’s constant power struggles. She needs Gray’s help to win freedom and uncover the secrets of her mysterious origins. Gray needs her wisdom to navigate monster-ridden Atlantis. But need blossoms into passionate love as they fight demons, dragons, vampires – and a prophecy that says the bond between them could destroy them both.

Excerpt:
http://members.cox.net/genashowalter/excerpt.htm

ABOUT GENA SHOWALTER
Gena Showalter holds a Ph.D. in Quantum Physics (lie), is an expert in Krav Maga (bigger lie), and once worked as a body guard for the stars (the biggest lie of all). Actually, Gena Showalter is just your everyday, average girl who enjoys creating sizzling paranormal tales of kick ass women and the men who can't resist them.

REVIEWS

Showalter has created a ripe mythological world populated with fascinating creatures and dark lore. . . , for extraordinary escapism, read this book. -- Romantic Times

Another great fantasy! Check out Robin Owen's new book.

2006-02-01T20:46:00.000-06:00

Robin Owens is one of my favorite futuristic/fantasy/romance authors. Her first book, HeartMate was a groundbreaking blend of the above elements, and won the prestigious RITA award from Romance Writers of America. Now Robin has turned her considerable writing talent to books that are a little more fantasy, but still contain beautiful romantic elements. SORCERESS OF FAITH is now available. Isn't this a gorgeous cover? Read more about the book below.

SORCERESS OF FAITH by Robin D. Owens
(Luna, February 1, 2006)

With the world of Llandrana threatened by encroaching evil, the Sorcerers must do the unthinkable—Summon an outsider to stop the insidious Darkness slowly taking control of their land and poisoning the Sorcerers themselves.

Arriving in Lladrana, grad student Marian Harasta is stunned to find herself the center of a dispute among Sorcerers who want to augment their Power with her own. She must quickly learn her new magical Powers – and decide who she can trust in this strange land. She has prayed for a miracle to save her brother – could Lladrana offer that knowledge, and can she somehow return to Earth with it?
She knows she must offer the Sorcerers something in exchange, and ridding them of the Evil Sorcerer is what they want, but how will she fare in her first magical duel?

With unexpected help – and unexpected betrayal – Marian must determine where her true fate lies.

Excerpt:
http://www.robindowens.com/reads/sorceress_of_faith.htm

Cover:
http://www.robindowens.com/images/sorceress_of_faith_cover.jpg

Getting Published 101 (or how not to get published)

2005-12-04T20:44:00.000-06:00

I'm writing this for three reasons: 1) To get out of answering e-mail, which is now overflowing out of my inbox, like oatmeal flowing out of the pot (it's so overwhelming, I don't know where to start), and; 2) One of my new resolutions is to actually post entries to my blog, and; 3) Getting published is a crazy business, so maybe I can share some of my trails and tribulations to give you some hope. So I'm going to cover various obstacles and solutions, in little chunks, over the month of December.

When I first started writing seriously for publication (I'd written all my life, but the 'have-to-get-published' bug didn't hit until my late 30's; obviously, that was only a few years ago). When I started on 'the path', I was hyped, I was enthusiastic, I was convinced I was the next Nora Roberts, and I was like a bull in a china shop. I went charging around with absolutely no idea of what I was doing. I didn't even know that I didn't even know . In my ignorance, I basically ended up doing *everything* wrong: submitting a manuscript in a binder, going into an editor appointment without a thought-out pitch, writing inappropriate query letters--you name it, I did it. Of course I was writing and writing and writing (which was a *good* thing), but even there, I didn't know what I was doing wrong. It was a scary situation .

But I also did some things right: I subscribed to Writer's Digest and Romantic Times Magazine, I joined RWA and my local writing chapter (Dallas Area Romance Authors), and started educating myself on the publishing business. I also read books on writing techniques, talked writing with other writers, wormed my way into a good critique group. And as I learned the professional approach to becoming a published author, I did a lot of cringing as I realized all the faux pas (I.E., total screwups) I had committed, and I wanted to slink away in embarrassment. But guess what? I survived all my mistakes, managed to pay for the damage in the china shop, and somehow, *somehow* managed to stumble into being published.

So, I guess my message is, don't worry if you make mistakes, or if you don't get it right the first time. *Keep trying*. I firmly believe those who persevere are the ones who make it in this crazy business.

~ Catherine

Stuffed and happy

2005-11-29T12:09:00.000-06:00

Hey there! I hope everyone had a fabulous Thanksgiving. I know I did. My two children (okay, *young adults*), Jim and Deborah, came home from college, and they brought with them four foreign students who didn't have anywhere to spend the holiday. All four were guys and tres cute. Laurant was from Belgium, "T" from Germany, Alec from Britain, and Sid from Australia. It was great having them with us. They were so enthusiastic and full and life and seemed to live in the moment, and to make the most of those moments. They made me feel somwhat old and frumpy, while my husband felt young again (funny at our different reactions, huh?). We had fifteen people at our dinner table on Thanksgiving, and it was great. This is always one of my favorite holidays. I'm so grateful for my many blessings, for my many friends, and my wonderful readers (whom I count among my friends). I hope all of you had as wonderful a holiday as I did. Thanks as always for your interest and support.

~ Catherine

Come dance through "The Garden of Good and Evil"

2005-10-19T10:45:00.000-05:00

Ready to be BEWITCHED, BOTHERED AND BEVAMPYRED? That's the name of a great new anthology that's featuring Susan Grant's story, "A Dance Through The Garden of Good and Evil". As always, I'm amazed by Susan's creative genius, and this time, she's created a whole new world, right here among us mere mortals:

Welcome to Brokenoggin Falls, where the housewives are not only desperate, they’re Witches! (And one of them might be a Harpy) The spells cast by moonlight frequently go awry. And there are times when toads and Chihuahuas seem abundant as black flies in the summer, the dragons are a little touchy, the Forest Trolls are in danger of extinction from teeny-boppers, the Gryphons need help conceiving and...the scientists are crunchy and good with ketchup...

When Pastor Harmony Faithfull unknowingly hires a tall, dark, and sexy demon to be the new church groundskeeper, all hell breaks loose.

Even cooler than reading Susan's new novella is the fact that all proceeds from the sales of this book will go to the International Red Cross. So support a very worthy cause while enjoying Susan's entertaining story.

You can read an excerpt on Susan's website at http://www.susangrant.com

I'm baaack!

2005-10-19T10:25:00.000-05:00

I haven't been gone that long, have I? Hmmmm . . . only 2-1/2 months. Okay, okay, I've been a slug, all right? I've also been busy. Since I last posted, I had a houseguest from Australia for 8 days, then I had two houseguests from New Orleans for four weeks, plus I spent 10 days in Alabama, moving my father from a house to an apartment. Of course, the house was much bigger than the apartment, and he'd lived there a mere 30 years. Where does all that stuff come from??? I did find some of my junior high and high school year books while I was cleaning out his house, which is both cool and scary (I was neither pretty or photogenic at those ages). Then there's this pesky day job (where they seem to expect me to work!), and my current WIP, The Edge of Darkness, which is totally different from anything I've ever written and quite the challenge. Not that I'm complaining, mind you .

Life does seem to be settling back down, although we're traveling to the Atlanta area in a few weeks to see my in-laws (or "The Outlaws" as I affectionately refer to them). Then there's Thanksgiving and the December holidays. And a book deadline--yikes!

But I'll try to post here occasionally. I might even update my webpage and offer a new contest (notice I said "might").

Anyway, it's good to be back.

Magnetic . . . and intriguing

2005-08-13T10:40:00.000-05:00

I just finished reading the excerpt from Moon Magnetism by Lucy Monroe, one of the stories in the anthology Star Quality from Brava. And all I can say is the word "magnetism" definitely applies here. I heard Lucy speak at the RWA conference in Reno a few weeks ago, and she was charming and had a hilarious sense of humor. It comes through loud and clear in Moon Magnetism, along with her ability to write steamy stories with sexy, magnetic heros. But the magnetism that's the center of Moon Magnetism is that of the heroine, Ivy Kendall. All the women in her family have an odd trait that makes them extremely magnetic during a full moon and disrupts most technical gadgets. Unfortunately, Ivy works for a man (the hunky hero, Blake Hawthorne) who orders his life around technical gadgets. She doesn't dare let him get too close during the full moon, but he has other ideas. Wow. I must read the rest of this great story. More details below:

“Moon Magnetism” featured in STAR QUALITY by Lucy Monroe
(Kensington Brava, May 2005)

Ivy Kendall dreads the full moon. For generations, women in her family have been extremely magnetic on that day—which was fine fifty years ago but not in the age of hard drives and cell phones. That’s why the hotel manager has resisted the technological improvements her boss wants her to implement. Now, the sexy, dynamic Blake Hawthorne is coming to insist on the upgrades in person. Shoot, he’ll probably fire her. Being around Blake makes her body go as haywire as a full moon, maybe even more. And as long as she’s going to be out of a job soon, there’s no reason not to use a little of that magnetism to her advantage, luring him into an elevator where the only electricity that will work is the kind they generate themselves…

Excerpt:
http://www.lucymonroe.com/ExcerptsSQ.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.

Website: http://www.lucymonroe.com

Happy reading!

~ Catherine

Go . . . Beyond Control

2005-08-04T13:05:00.000-05:00

I am continually amazed at the creativity and talent of today’s leading paranormal romance authors. Rebecca York is no exception, with her latest book, Beyond Control, which is a paranormal suspense about two telepaths whose powers are enhanced when they come together sexually. The story’s opening is intriguing and fast-paced, with Ms. York’s trademark crisp and evocative writing. This book has it all: heart-stopping action, suspense, fabulous paranormal elements, and sizzling sexual tension. You can read more below:

BEYOND CONTROL by Rebecca York
(Berkley, August 2005)

BEYOND CONTROL, by Rebecca York, tells the story of telepaths who discover and develop their powers only when they sexually link with another of their kind.

Jordan Walker and Lindsay Fleming meet at a Washington, D. C., cocktail party. When they touch, they experience an electric moment of psychic awareness. As they explore the unique bond forming between them, they discover that the more intimate their contact, the more their psychic powers develop.

As with York’s Moon books, Lindsay and Jordan must work out their personal relationship against a background of danger and suspense after they stumble onto his murder cover-up at a secret biological weapons lab. At the same time, two other telepaths who want all the psychic goodies for themselves set out to wipe Jordan and Lindsay from the face of the earth.

Rebecca York says that, "Publishers wouldn’t touch a story with this unique blend of suspense and sensuality 15 years ago. But the characters and the plot wouldn’t let me go, so I held onto them until the time was right."

Excerpt:
http://mywebpages.comcast.net/glick/sneak-p21.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.

Website: http://www.rebeccayork.com

As always, I’d love to hear if you enjoyed this amazing book.

~ Catherine

Yes! She's back!!!

2005-07-20T21:18:00.000-05:00

Yes! She’s back! Betsy Taylor, ex-administrative assistant, somewhat shallow and vain chick with a fetish for designer shoes—and who just happens to be Queen of the Undead—is back. Oh, joy (no sarcasm intended)! The Undead books by MaryJanice Davidson are some of my absolute favorites, and always at the top of my “must be read immediately” pile. Undead and Unappreciated is the third book in the series, behind Undead and Unwed and Undead and Unemployed, and I’m in the process of devouring it (figuratively).

Undead and Unappreciated has the classic MaryJanice Davidson wit, and Betsy is at the top of her game. Well, maybe not completely at the top. She has started attending AA meetings to help her get over her addiction to blood, and she is about to discover that she has a long-lost half sister who just happens to be the devil’s daughter, plus she still has to deal with the devastatingly handsome and sinfully sexy Sinclair, king of the Vampires. So maybe her life is just a little . . . challenging. But Betsy will come through in top form, like she always does. Here’s more inside information:

UNDEAD AND UNAPPRECIATED by MaryJanice Davidson
(Berkley, July 2005)

Most women would love to live as royalty, but Betsy Taylor has found that being vampire queen has more problems than perks, except for always being awake for Midnight Madness sales. It may be easy to find blood (yuck) in the dark of night, but try finding a strawberry smoothie. And employees at her nightclub Scratch have been giving her nothing but grief since she killed their former boss. Some people...

But Betsy's "life" takes an interesting turn at a baby shower for her wicked stepmother, who lets it slip that Betsy has a long-last half sister. Now twenty years old, this woman just so happens to be the devil's daughter...and destined to rule the world.

Excerpt:
http://www.maryjanicedavidson.net/U&U%203.htm

ABOUT MARYJANICE DAVIDSON
MaryJanice Davidson has written in a variety of different genres, including contemporary romance, paranormal romance, erotica, and nonfiction.

MJ is the best-selling author of several romance novels, including UNDEAD AND UNWED and HELLO GORGEOUS. Her first hardcover, UNDEAD AND UNAPPRECIATED, will be out in July. Her books have been on the USA Today best seller list, as well as the New York Times list. Starting in July, she has a release every month through February. She lives in Minnesota with her husband, two children, and dog, and is secretly addicted to Peanut Buster Parfaits.

Website: http://www.maryjanicedavidson.net

If you haven’t read this series, what are you waiting for??? Get all three books today and start reading the best chick-lit/vampire/paranormal series around!

Happy reading!

~ Catherine

Crimson City -- The Epic Begins!

2005-07-17T13:03:00.000-05:00

Crimson City by Liz Maverick is the first book in an amazing series which Liz created and developed for Dorchester. It combines two of my favorite genres: futuristic and paranormal. In the world Liz has created, vampires and werewolves now move freely among the humans in futuristic Los Angeles. The heroine, Fleur Dumont, is a gritty and spunky vampire, who is on the outs with her own kind, and is determined to prove herself and regain her place in vampire society. Only things don't go quite as planned, and fate involves her with a tormented hero, a "protector" who's lost everything. This first book is awesome, and I can't wait for the rest of the series. More details:

CRIMSON CITY by Liz Maverick
(Love Spell, July 2005)

Once, this was the City of Angels. The angels are no longer in charge.

From the extravagant appetites of the vampire world above, to the gritty defiance of the werewolves below, the specter of darkness lives around every corner, the hope of paradise in every heart. All walk freely with humans in a tentative peace, but to live in Los Angeles is to balance on the edge of a knife. One woman knows better than most that death lurks here in nights of bliss or hails of UV bullets. She’s about to be tested, to taste true thirst. She’s about to regain the power she’s long been denied. And Fleur Dumont is about to meet the one man who may understand her: a tormented protector who’s lost his way and all he loved.

Theirs is one tale of many. This is Crimson City, where desire meets danger and more than just the stars come out at night.

Liz Maverick created and developed Crimson City as a series for Dorchester. The full slate of rockin’ authors and their books is as follows:

Book #1: Crimson City, by Liz Maverick
Book #2: A Taste of Crimson, by Marjorie M. Liu
Book #3: Through a Crimson Veil, by Patti O'Shea
Book #4: A Darker Crimson, by Carolyn Jewel
Book #5: Seduced by Crimson, by Jade Lee
Book #6: Crimson Rogue, by Liz Maverick
http://www.crimsoncity.com

Excerpt:
http://www.lizmaverick.com/crimsoncity.html

Photo of Liz’s smiling mug:
http://www.lizmaverick.com/about.html

Other links:

Liz’s blog full of Assorted Misadventures and Photographic Whimsy
http://lizmaverick.blogspot.com

Crimson City Hub
http://www.crimsoncity.com

Crimson City city resident’s blog
http://crimsoncity.blogspot.com

By the way, Liz is a little "nutty" (okay so most authors are), but she's very creative and loads of fun, so be sure to visit some of her online haunts.

Happy reading!

~ Catherine

Carpe Demon -- Read it!

2005-07-13T10:11:00.000-05:00

Julie Kenner is one of the most innovative and creative paranormal romance authors around. I love her amazing and unique stories. Two of her earlier books, Aphrodite’s Kiss (about super heroes) and The Cat’s Fancy (about a cat who becomes a woman a la The Little Mermaid) got me hooked on her stories. She’s continued that trend, and now has fully reached her stride with Carpe Demon: Adventures of a Demon-Hunting Soccer Mom. This is an amazing, fun, fast-paced book. Just imagine what would happen if Buffy the Vampire Slayer retired and married and had kids (and no one knew about her past). Then imagine what would happen if she were unexpectedly called back into service. That’s exactly what happens when Kate Connor, ex-Demon Hunter Extraordinaire, runs into a demon while trying frantically to shop, herd her teenaged daughter and toddler son, clean house and cook dinner for eight lawyers and judges to help promote her husband’s career. What’s a mom to do when a demon smashes through her breakfast room window and challenges her to the death? Well, that’s a book in itself. Here’s more information on Carpe Demon:

CARPE DEMON: Adventures of a Demon-Hunting Soccer Mom by Julie Kenner
(Berkley, July 2005)
Carpools. Crabgrass. Creatures from the depths of hell. Suburbia has its problems too...
Lots of women put their careers aside once the kids come along. Kate Connor, for instance, hasn't hunted a demon in ages...
That must be why she missed the one wandering through the pet food aisle of the San Diablo Wal-Mart. Unfortunately, he managed to catch her attention an hour later-when he crashed into the Connor house, intent on killing her.
Now Kate has to clean up the mess in her kitchen, dispose of a dead demon, and pull together a dinner party that will get her husband elected to County Attorney-all without arousing her family's suspicion. Worse yet, it seems the dead demon didn't come alone. He was accompanied by a High Demon named Goramesh who, for some unknown reason, intends to kill off the entire population of San Diablo.
It's time for Kate Connor to go back to work.

Excerpt:
http://www.juliekenner.com/CarpeDemon.htm

CARPE DEMON: ADVENTURES OF A DEMON-HUNTING SOCCER MOM has been optioned for film by Warner Brothers & 1492 Pictures, and is scheduled for release as an audiobook from BBC America Audiobooks.

In addition, CARPE DEMON was recently honored by being selected by BOOKSENSE as a Summer 2005 Paperback Pick.

ABOUT JULIE KENNER
Julie Kenner is a USA Today bestselling author. She is also a former attorney who lives with her husband and daughter.

Do not miss reading this wonderful book! As always, let me know what you think.

~ Catherine

"The Dress"

2005-07-09T12:50:00.000-05:00

Yes, I found it! "The Dress" for the Romance Writers of America RITA awards ceremony in Reno on July 30. For those of you who have never attended, the Golden Heart and RITA awards ceremony is very gala, very glitzy, very "Oscar-ish", and a Very Big Deal, with about 2,500 to 3,000 people in attendance. Since I was fortunate enough to have SHADOW FIRES nominated for a RITA in best paranormal romance, this means I must have "The Dress" to wear for the ceremony. I approached the shopping process with both anticipation (shopping—oh, boy!) and dread (mirrors in dressing rooms—arrrgh!) I also expected it to be a long, arduous process, which is why I started early in July. My 19-year-old daughter, Deborah, went with me, and we headed for Special Occasion Dresses in Dallas. It's a step above outlet evening wear, but a step below some of the Bridal/Formal shops and other high-end women's formal gowns stores.

I tried to look at something other than black—I really did. But not only is black a fabulous color for me, this year's top fashion colors appear to be a stunning gold, or beige, or a combination of colors over beige—all of which make me look washed out and half dead. I tried on some black and hot pink combinations, navy blue, aqua, eyed some red (not much selection and more of an orange red), and came back to the black gowns again and again. Deborah and saleslady Sue and I lugged armloads of gowns to the dressing room, staggering under the weight. Then I discovered I couldn’t zip any of them myself, so Deb helped with that. I also discovered that I couldn’t wear anything with a straight skirt, and had to pull every dress over my head (darn hips!). After two hours of struggling into and out of dresses, and parading them for the entire store (no mirrors in the actual dressing rooms), we had it down to three dresses—all black, and all gorgeous. I didn’t want to choose, but had to turn down Sue’s polite suggestion that I buy *all* three dresses.

We started a judging panel consisting of saleslady Sue, another saleslady, seamstress Keve, Deborah, and a friendly customer. They all sat in chairs lined up in front of the mirrored staging area, and cheered on their favorites as I modeled them (I really expected them to hold up cards with their vote—LOL). I was afraid the vote would be split, but after the modeling and much discussion, we all actually *agreed* on “The Dress” (whew!).

It’s an XSCAPE dress by Joanna Chen (have no clue here), and has a layer of black chiffon over solid black fabric. It has beaded spaghetti straps, a cowl-draped neckline (chiffon shot through with jet beads and sequins in a white flower pattern). The jet and sequined flowers sweep down one side of the dress, which is form fitting to the knees, then flares out to a flounce that goes to the floor. Right above the flare is more extensive beading and sequins. It’s a girly-girl, fairy tale dress with attitude! I’m delighted with it, was amazed to find it at the first place we went, and it was even on sale (although that only dropped it into the “non-fainting” price range). With the unanimous vote, the sale price, and my infatuation with the dress, I took everything as a sign that I’d found “The Dress” and purchased it.

So whether or not I’m graced with the RITA award on July 30, I’ll look pretty darned good—and no matter what happens, I get to keep the dress!

I’ll be sure and take pictures so you can see it. Until then, I’ll be practicing how to walk in it without tripping, and reminding myself to “suck it in”.

Everyone have a great weekend!

~ Catherine

Another book -- by a "Master"

2005-07-03T20:57:00.000-05:00

Hey all, I'm in the middle of MASTER OF THE MOON by Angela Knight. Really cool book! Angela is amazing in that she combines futuristic, paranormal, fantasy, and erotic romance into a unique blend and adds great world building and storytelling ability, and produces fabulous stories. Master of the Moon is the second book in her new series, and it caught my attention right off. The hero, Llyr Galatyn, just happens to be the king of the fairies, and the heroine just happens to be a werewolf imbued with magical powers from none other than the great Merlin. Add a powerful vampire witch who enjoys torturing and murdering people, and Llyr's evil, jealous brother into the mix, and you have an amazing story. Here's more on the book:

MASTER OF THE MOON by Angela Knight
(Berkley Sensation, May 2005)

Diana London works hard in her day job as the city manager of a small South Carolina town. Yet she still finds time to moonlight for the Verdaville Police Department.

As a werewolf.

But while helping the police investigate a brutal murder, Diana discovers she’s not the only magical creature in town. A female vampire has also decided to make Verdaville her murderous playground. What’s worse, she has powers even Diana can’t match.

Fortunately, Diana is not the only one determined to stop her. Llyr Galatyn is the king of the Cachamwri Sidhe – a seductive otherworldly warrior with fantastic abilities. He’s sworn to hunt down the murderer, and he’s more than willing to give Diana any help she needs.

And not just with the case. Diana is in her Burning Moon, a time of sexual heat, when need rides her hard. Llyr is delighted to be the answer to her erotic prayers.

But as they hunt the vampire while desire runs hot between them, a deadly enemy urges the killer to turn her sights on Llyr. It seems Llyr isn’t the only king of the Sidhe – and his brother wants him dead.

Excerpt:
http://www.angelasknights.com/masterofthemoon.htm

Cover:
http://www.angelasknights.com/images/momcover.jpg

ABOUT ANGELA KNIGHT
Angela Knight's first book was written in pencil and illustrated in crayon; she was nine years old at the time. But her mother was enthralled, and Angela was hooked. In the years that followed, Angela managed to figure out a way to make a living -- more or less -- at what she loved best: writing. After a short career as a comic book writer, she became a newspaper reporter, covering everything from school board meetings to murders. Several of her stories won South Carolina Press Association awards under her real name. For more of Angela’s interesting bio, visit her website: http://angelasknights.com

~ Catherine

More Good News

2005-07-03T20:45:00.000-05:00

Well, as they say, "When it rains, it pours." I've got more good news! I can add a novella sale to go along with my two paranormal romance sales to Berkley. My novella, "Street Corners and Halos", will be part of a paranormal anthology about opposites attracting. MaryJanice Davidson, Emma Holly, and Vickie Taylor will also have novellas in the book. How cool is that? My story is about a female vampire, and the hero just happens to be an angel. I'm so excited about this, especially since it's my first anthology. I guess the moral here is don't give up! I had a long dry spell, but I kept writing and submitting. And now . . . well now, I have to write like crazy to meet my deadlines. So I guess "Be careful what you ask for" might also apply here, but I'm not complaining.

Everyone have a fun and safe July 4th.

~ Catherine

A great book is "Unmasked"

2005-06-29T14:08:00.000-05:00

Unmasked is the latest futuristic romance by CJ Barry, and I think it's her best book yet! That's saying a lot since her previous books, Unchained, Unearthed, Unraveled and Unleashed (yes there is 'un'deniably a pattern here) have recieved all sorts of acclaim and won numerous awards (quite a few of them edging out *my* books), and all are wonderful. CJ is definitely one of my favorite futuristic/SF authors. Her heroines are spunky, resiliant and fiercely independent and they always give the hero a run for his money. Not that CJ's heroes are weak--oh, no! They're strong, honorable, hunky men who manage to hold their own with the heroine (but they have to stay on their toes to do it). Her men bring to mind the swashbuckling heroes of the movies (Antonio Banderas in The Mask of Zorro, Brendan Fraser in The Mummy, Viggo Mortensen in LOTR; with a touch of Johnny Depp and Brad Pitt thrown in for hunk value).

Add to that CJ's ability to write amazing action/adventure/romance, and every book is a treasure. Unmasked is no exception. Torrie is a classic kick-ass heroine, and Qaade is a fabulous tortured, honorable, well-muscled hero. CJ tackles some tough subjects in this book (slavery), but her fast-moving stlye, laced with emotion, sexual tension, and action, will keep you enthralled to the very end.

Here's more information on this great book:

UNMASKED by C. J. Barry
Love Spell (Dorchester Publishing), June 7 2005

To the merchants he plunders, he's the Ghost Rider of the Dead Zone. To sector law enforcement, he's a wanted pirate. To the slaves he rescues, he's the savior, laghato. To one determined female, Qaade Deter is serious trouble. Torrie Masters had heard of the legendary raider, but she'd never expected to encounter him. Nor would she have expected that beneath his black mask lurked an enticing man destined to challenge her in ways she couldn't shoot her way out of. But a great threat has emerged-one that's left no choice but for them to join forces. Entrusted with the fate of thousands, Torrie has discovered Qaade's impossible dream. Only she has the power to help him. Only she has the power to see him UNMASKED.

Excerpt: Excerpt

Website: Website

A litle excitement in my life!

2005-06-29T13:18:00.000-05:00

As you know, my life is rather bland and normal (okay, so anyone who writes a hero who's half reptile isn't completely normal, but you know what I mean). I guess it would be more accurate to say my life is rather ordinary. But I did have an exciting twenty-four hours a few weeks ago, right after my agent announced my two paranormal sales to Berkley on Publisher's Lunch. A movie production company contacted my agent, asking if the movie rights were available. They wanted to take a look. Roberta replied that we only had a proposal, and they wanted that e-mailed as soon as possible. Oh wow! A movie production company interested in my Sentinel series! With shaking fingers, I sent off the files. I had visions of getting "the Call" (a new and different type of Call). A "We want to option this story for a movie" Call. I was going to make a lot of money (yes, I know movie options can go for surprisingly low amounts), and garner movie credits and be Someone. It was really neat envisioning all this, and it made me feel validated, made all that hard work and hair tearing and head banging seem worthwhile. It was fabulously fun while it lasted. But alas, the very next day, I recieved a polite e-mail, praising the writing, but declining the idea. They said it was too complex to be turned into a movie concept. Deflate, deflate, deflate. Back to my ordinary life. Sigh. But hey, I'm contracted for two paranormal books (and have some more news I'll share in another blog). And you know, I believe I have a single glass slipper around here somewhere . . . I've got to believe the other one will show up sooner or later . . .

~ Catherine

Awaken Me Darkly -- Wow!

2005-06-24T14:59:00.000-05:00

Hey all, I know I should be writing, but that's been all but impossible, because I'm in the middle of an incredible book--AWAKEN ME DARKLY, by Gena Showalter. OMG! I can't put it down. All I can say is wow! I love paranormal romances (duh), and I love dark and edgy and emotional, and this book has it all. The heroine, Mia Snow, is totally kick-ass, tough and yet vulnerable at the same time (think Eve Dallas). The hero, a strange and mysterious alien named Kyrin, could rival Roark any day. Let me share a great blurb that will give you a better idea about this awesome book:

AWAKEN ME DARKLY by Gena Showalter
(Pocket Books, June 2005)

WELCOME TO THE NEW WORLD. . .
In a time and place not too far away, Mia Snow is an alien huntress for the New Chicago Police Department, using her psychic abilities and deadly fighting skills to catch her prey. Heading up her expert team of Alien Investigation and Removal agents, Mia is unmatched at battling the elusive enemy among us, and she’s the perfect girl for the job. She’s seen her brother die at the hands of aliens. She’s earned each of her scars. And she’ll never, ever give up. Now, a series of killings have Mia and her partner Dallas tracking alien suspects – but a sudden blast of violence leaves Dallas fighting for his life.

The chance to save Dallas appears in the form of a tall, erotic stranger. An alien. A murder suspect. Kyrin en Arr, of the deadly Arcadian species, holds the power to heal the injured agent but not without a price. For Mia Snow, that price is surrendering to Kyrin’s forbidden seduction…and embracing their electric attraction. She’s walking a knife’s edge, risking her badge and even her life. The closer she gets to Kyrin, the more Mia learns about her own heart, her human needs – and the shocking secret that will shatter everything she’s ever believed.

You can find more information at Gena's website: http://www.genashowalter.com

Enchanted!

2005-06-16T12:15:00.000-05:00

Hey, all, I'm in the middle of reading a fabulous book by Shanna Swendson. It's Enchanted, Inc. and it's awesome! I've personally known Shanna for about ten years now, and I enjoyed her earlier books from Avalon. She's got a light and fun style that just makes you smile, inside and out. Now Shanna has moved into the chick lit arena with an amazingly ingenious and creative story that she says is a "Harry Potter meets Sex in the City". And she's right. Country girl Katie Chandler moves to the big city of New York, where she discovers that magic really does exist, and goes to work for MSI, a secretive company "manned" by fairies, elves, wizards, ogres, and even a gargoyle. She may be immune to their magic, but she's not immune to the charms of "Mr. Right" a hunky, powerful young wizard. Simply put, this book is magical! I can't wait to see how it ends. Plus, there's going to be a sequel. Move over, Harry! Theres a new girl in town!

Here's more info on the book:

Blurb for ENCHANTED, INC. by Shanna Swendson
(Ballantine Books), May 31, 2005
Shanna Swendson’s debut mainstream novel, ENCHANTED, INC. is a magical story featuring Katie Chandler, a 20something, small-town Texas girl, who finds that being average in New York City is anything but. Katie loves the energy of Manhattan, and if she finds some of the people odd, well, that¹s New York, right? Where else would you see a person on the subway wearing fairy wings? In fact, if Katie wasn’t completely sure those wings must be a costume, she’d think they were real, the way they flutter in the breeze. Certainly the gargoyle that perches above the door of the church she passes on the way to and from work isn’t real. Its eyes seem to follow her, and she could have sworn it winked at her once, but now that she thinks about it, it was really hot that day, and she hadn¹t eaten lunch.... Katie is still adjusting to life in the big city while working a for a nightmare boss, when she gets a fantastic offer to work for a mysterious company, MSI, Inc. Through her new job and the magical folk she meets, Katie comes to find out she isn¹t quite as average as she thought; and the fairytale life she has longed for begins to come true in surprising ways. What Katie doesn’t realize is how rare and important being ordinary can be. In fact, it is her ordinary characteristics that make her the perfect secret weapon for MSI, Inc. Suddenly the very qualities she thought made her average are what make her special! Now she has magicians and fairies meddling in her attempted romances, a secret life she needs to keep hidden from her non-magical friends, not to mention that dangerous pull she feels for Owen, an attractive but shy wizard who might be the most powerful magic man since Merlin.

Excerpt:
http://www.randomhouse.com/rhpg/catalog/display.pperl?isbn=0345481259&view=excerpt

Cover:
http://www.shannaswendson.com/Resources/shannasbookcover.jpeg

Website: http://www.shannaswendson.com

Be sure and let me know if you enjoyed this book as much as I have. Tomorrow I'm going to share another great book--Awaken Me Darkly by Gena Showalter. So many fabulous books, so little time!

~ Catherine

ACFIKAC -- Great Book!

2005-06-07T13:51:00.000-05:00

It is my pleasure to share a fabulous book I'm reading. It's A Connecticut Fashionista In King Arthur's Court, or "ACFIKAC", as we in the "biz" like to call it. It's by Marianne Mancusi, who is also an Emmy-award winning news producer, snowboarder, barhopper, table dancer (okay, I made that one up), shopaholic. So who would be better qualified to write a contemporary, designer-clothing-loving, outspoken heroine who mouths off at an ill-natured gypsy and ends up being cursed and sent back in time? (Rhetorical question, but I'll bet you know the answer.)

I'm in the middle of reading this book, and it's hilarious. It's a combination of chick lit and time travel, or as it says on the back of the book, "Sex & The City . . . of Camelot!" The heroine's mental wisecracks are witty and entertaining. Kat is totally engaging, and it's easy to sympathize with her predicament (although I'd have been more likely to throw myself at Lancelot the moment I saw him).

I think the book's blurb does a great job of capturing its essence:

Once upon a time there lived an outspoken fashion editor named Kat, who certainly was not your typical damsel in distress. But when a gypsy curse sent her back in time to the days of King Arthur, she found she'd need every ounce of her 21st century wits (and pop culture references) to navigate the legend. After all, surviving a magical plot, an evil prince, and a case of mistaken identity--all without changing history or scuffing your Manolos--takes some doing!

Luckily, she's got her very own knight in shining armor, Lancelot du Lac, on her side. The honorable-to-a-fault and devastatingly handsome champion insists on helping her out, even though she's not quite sure she wants him to. After all, shouldn't he be off romancing Queen Guenevere or something? Will Kat manage to stay out of trouble long enough to get back to her beloved cafi lattes, cosmopolitans and cashmere? And what will Lancelot's forbidden love mean for the kingdom of Camelot?

You can read a fun excerpt at: http://www.mariannemancusi.com/Excerpt.html

And you can find ACFIKAC at your local bookstore or online. So . . . what are you waiting for? Go forth, buy, read, and enjoy!

~ Catherine

More On Creativity

2005-06-06T21:09:00.000-05:00

I know I promised to write more on creativity, except I forgot what I was going to say . . . Geez, that seems to be happening to me a lot lately (nothing to do with my age, okay?). I did want to say that, IMO, creativity can become dormant, like an under-exercised muscle (I have a *lot* of those), and hey, dont' they turn to fat? Oh, great, I have *fat* creativity! But that means it can also be revived, toned up and operating smoothly again. I don't think it's ever completely lost . . . Sorry, I'm listening to the soundtrack from Phantom of the Opera, and I'm getting sidetracked--LOL. Anyway, some tips on creativity:

1) Trust in your creativity. Believe it's there, and will come through for you. (If you build it, they will come, etc.--and if you know what movie I'm quoting from, you're dating yourself!).

2) Don't be afraid to test your creativity, to push the boundaries of it. It's kind of like love--the more people you have to love in your life, the more love you have to give them! The more you stretch your creativity, the more it will respond. It's an amazing example of universal abundance.

3) Use your creative abilities often, hopefully every day.

4) Don't compare yourself, or your endeavors, to others. We all have our own ways of being creative. Yours is unique and should be encouraged to "do it's own thing". Comparisons can lead to negative thinking, and negativity is not condusive to creativity.

5) Celebrate your creativity and your creations! Be proud of the common birthright we all share--the ability to create.

6) To aid in the celebration, be sure to indulge in lots of chocolate (oh, yes, that's very *good* for creativity!)

I definitely need to print out this list and put it by my computer, since I'm guilty of feeling non-creative at times. So thanks for letting me post this reminder for all of us.

Tomorrow, I'll be posting about a *very* fun and creative book, A Connecticut Fashionista In King Arthur's Court, by Marianne Mancusi. Hope you'll check back then. ~ Catherine

Getting Personal

2005-06-05T22:30:00.000-05:00

My son, who's twenty-two and knows a lot more about this blogging business than I do, has informed me that people like to read about personal details in blogs. I guess it's kind of like fiction books--we want to know all about the characters, what makes them tick. We want to care about those characters, become personally involved with them. So this is my "personal" entry . . . Hmmm . . . The problem is, my life is very ordinary. I feel very much like MaryJanice Davidson when she said on our group blog (http://outoftheblogosphere.blogspot.com/) "I ain't got nothin". MJ's most interesting event that day was drinking a new brand of orange juice. I think most writers spend their time, well, writing. And many writers also tend to be introverts, so they're generally not attending wild parties and/or orgies. Granted, some of the members of Out of the Blogosphere are adventurous, energetic, and very creative in how they live their lives. But me, I work in accounting in my day job (no creativity there--the government frowns heavily on creativity in accounting and taxes!), and then I come home and write. That's pretty much it (outside of herding cats and dogs and hanging out with my husband).

However, I do get to visit exotic other worlds, lust after hunky alpha males (some of them a little . . . alien), and vicariously experience magnificent adventures, all through my writing or through the books of the many wonderful authors out there. But then I shut down the computer or close the book and return to my ordinary world. I'm not complaining, mind you. Life is good and I've been very blessed. It's just that when it comes to reporting interesting stuff in my blog, there's just not much to tell. I will make a deal, though. If anything exciting or interesting does happen, I'll be sure to "blog it" here. And, as a matter of fact, on June 7, I'll be talking about Marianne Mancusi's very cool (and exciting!) book, "A Connecticut Fashionista In King Arthur's Court", which is now at a bookstore near you. Until then, here's wishing you some excitement!

News, News, News!

2005-06-02T22:50:00.000-05:00

Hey everyone, I have some cool news to report. I've sold two books to Berkley for their Sensation line. These are the first two books in my "Sentinel" series, dark paranormal romances set on current-day earth. I'm really excited about writing a new and different series, and about writing for Berkley. Cindy Hwang is my editor, and she's ultra cool. Ive been doing the happy dance (and eating chocolate and . . . .eating chocolate!). I'll be posting more about the series, but I'll probably write more about creativity in my next blog. ~ Catherine

Creativity

2005-05-25T08:07:00.000-05:00

Creativity is something that has always fascinated me. It's intangible (although the results are often very concrete), hard to define, see, or measure. It can also be very difficult to tap into at will or channel it, and it often has a mind of its own. Yet it drives all our creative endeavors and affects many aspects of our lives. Over the years, my creativity has run "hot and cold", but I'm convinced of two things:

1) *All* human beings are creative in one way or another. Our creativity might be expressed in different ways (art, music, writing, acting, gardening, decorating, raising children, politics, architecture, medicine, science, sports, etc.-the list is endless), *but* we each have a well of creativity inside us. I believe this creativity is the part of us, along with the soul, that most mirrors God/ Goddess/ Creator/ Supreme Being (pick your own label), just as I personally believe we are all co-creators with our God/ Goddess/ Creator/ Supreme Being, to some extent.

2) We never lose that creativity. It might atrophy and become dormant, but it's always there inside us, and it can be awakened at any time in our lives.

Good thing, too. I've found my own creativity waning over the years. The publishing business is tough (make that *grueling*) and often discouraging (tell you something new, right?). So many aspects of the business are out of our control. Add life in general to the mix, and the creativity can be driven back into the dark recesses of the psyche, seemingly lost in the mad rush of living and surviving. I've got some thoughts about that, too (hey, I'm a writer!). Next blog, hopefully in the near future, I'll discuss creativity some more.

Have a great Wednesday! ~ Catherine

The "Big Girls" are coming out to play!

2005-05-15T21:13:00.000-05:00

Yep, I know I started my blog site four months ago. Yep, I know I haven't posted anything since. But I've always been a slow starter :-) Anyway, now that I'm going to be part of an ultra-cool blogging circuit with some fabulous paranormal romance authors and mega-agent Deidre Knight, I guess I'd better start posting on a regular basis. And who might these fabulous authors be (I'm sure *someone* wants to know!)? They include C.J. Barry, Robin D. Owens, Gena Showalter, Jaci Burton, Marianne Mancusi, MaryJanice Davidson, Angela Knight, and Morgan Hawke, with more to come. Wow! I'm playing with the "big girls" of the paranormal romance genre (what the heck am I doing in this group???). We're going to talk up the industry and tell the world about our books and have an awesome time. So check in often. Very often! Very, very often! I'll be posting again soon.

~ Catherine

How did this happen?

2005-01-04T10:06:00.000-06:00

Hello! Welcome to my . . . universe. Well, heck. I didn't mean to start a blog . . . at least not yet. Of course, since I'm a major procrastinator, it might have been months, possibly years, before I got around to actually doing a blog. I was still working on making a New Year's resolution not to procrastinate so much--LOL.

Actually, I was trying to post on another blog--that of Vickie Taylor, who's a fabulous author (and who just happens to be one of my multi-talented and amazing critique partners). The system told me I had to sign in first, and then one thing led to another, and, well, here I am.

So I guess I'll be commenting on my writing life (or lack of it, depending on my life) from time to time. When I am writing, I write paranormal romances. I currently have five futuristic romances in print, and I'm now working on some paranormal stories set on current-day earth. While I'm at it, I might even throw in some of the antics of my two dogs, two cats, two almost-adult kids, and husband (I only have one of those).

So do check in from time to time. You can see whether or not I'm sticking to my resolution not to procrastinate (when I get around to making it ).

Here's to a fabulous 2005, filled with good health, peace, happiness, and prosperity.

~ Catherine