Miscellaneous Meanderings

And We're Back!

2012-01-16T16:52:00.000-08:00

So now that the holidays are over and things are settling down, I've managed to get all three of the Hell House books back up on Amazon, and with the new KDP programs, They are all FREE for Amazon Prime members! How cool is that?

Now it's time to get back to writing more stories!

Now available at Amazon for Kindle!

Hell For The Holidays...

2011-12-07T09:56:00.000-08:00

Just in time for the holidays, the first story in my young adult Hell House series is back up for your reading enjoyment! (and this new version includes a snippet of the next book in the series, Fairy Fury)

Holiday Hell House

There’s no place like Hell House for the holidays…

At least that’s what Danielle Stewart hopes for as the director of Hellsner Halfway House for Troubled Paranormal Teens. But all her plans come to an abrupt halt with the help of bickering teens, unannounced zombies, and a portal to hell, among other things. When the arguing leads to things quite literally going up in smoke, will Danielle find that her true calling lies elsewhere, or will the help of an unexpected angel show her the family she has longed for is right before her eyes?

Available at All Romance eBooks and Amazon for just 99 cents!

Happy Holidays and Happy Reading!

I now have a split personality...

2011-12-04T09:55:00.000-08:00

Well, I've done it. I decided to take on a pen name for my hot, erotic tales. I've been pretty resistant to doing the pen name thing, since I know me, and I know how bad I can get at keeping up with blogging and promo. But when I came down to the decision, what really tipped me over was the fact that I'm using my real name for my young adult Hell House series, and I wanted a distinct separation between the two worlds.

And so, Chrissie Lee was born.

She's still me, just a bit more snarky and way less inhibited. She wants to make her readers hot under the collar and show them that happily ever after can be as wild as they want it to be.

So celebrate her first release with me! And pop over to her blog and follow as well.

Chrissie Lee - After Dark...

After a disappointing night fending off drunk suitors at her friend's Halloween party, Amanda Swift is completely disenchanted with the dating scene. She's even more fed up with being alone, and wishes she'd finally find that perfect guy to sweep her off her feet and make her toes curl with ecstasy. But Amanda's evening quickly switches gears when she walks into her bedroom and discovers a very handsome - and very naked - hunk, who wants to please her in every way. But is this a case of be careful what you wish for?

Now available at All Romance eBooks for just 99 cents!

Stay tuned for more steamy stories to come...

New Beginnings...

2011-11-30T11:22:00.000-08:00

Well, the past week has been a chaotic whirlwind that is also known as my life. I work in retail, so the day job has been CRAZY with all the Black Friday hubbub. And then I got an email that changed my writing world forever.

Sapphire Blue Publishing was closing it's doors.

I was devastated. They had five of my titles and I was hoping to spend the bulk of my career growing with them. Fortunately, the owners are authors themselves, and they understood how we would be feeling. So with no hesitation, they returned the rights to all of us, and even gave us the rights to the cover art!

So while I still have a release with Wild Rose Press, I have decided to re-release my first novel, Second Chances, on my own. Going it alone is kind of scary, but I believe in my book and it feels good to have total control over the process.

So without further ado, say hello (again) to the newest release from Christle Gray Books!

Gallery owner Kristin Shepherd is resigned to living a life on her own in London, England after losing her husband to cancer. That was before she met handsome Scottish actor David McDougal.

David swears the relationship with his fiancé, Sophie Miller, is for public convenience only, but Kristin finds Sophie’s unwillingness to release her hold on David quite a complication to the chemistry that exists between them.

Within David’s dark eyes, will Kristin find the courage to trust enough to love again? And, are there such things as Second Chances?

Available from Smashwords and All Romance eBooks!

Gratitude Galore

2011-11-23T12:53:00.000-08:00

Thanksgiving is upon us! The turkey is dressed, the pies are baked, and families are flocking together to spend the day eating and shopping. But through all the full stomachs and "Black Friday" deals, it's good to pause and remember why we have this holiday in the first place.

To give thanks.

Sounds simple, right? But can you remember the last time you stopped and took the time to really count your blessings? Our lives are so busy these days, with day jobs, kids, spouses. We've become masters at multitasking in order to get everything done we need to. Conference calls at home while making dinner. Cramming in writing time while sitting in the doctor's office. Every single second of every day gets counted and used to its fullest extent.

So I know how difficult it can be to take a moment and just feel gratitude for everything you and your family have. Difficult because it forces you to think about what your life would be without these blessings. And that can be overwhelming to think about. But even the little things deserve recognition. The smile of a stranger when you need it. The words of a friend when you're down. The bad - yet funny - joke from a co-worker. These little things deserve gratitude just as much as the big ones, for they make each day different from the rest.

And it's so easy to get caught up in things this time of year, the whirlwind of the holidays. Through the gift giving and the big meals, we tend to forget the little things and breeze through the days until each one blends into the next. And before you know it,another year has passed.

So I ask that you always take a moment to give thanks, not just for the holiday, but every day. For every single day holds a blessing. All you have to do is stop and recognize it.

Have a Blessed and Wonderful Thanksgiving!

One Horrific Summer...

2011-10-26T17:58:00.000-07:00

So, I've always been a big fan of books. I can't even remember NOT knowing how to read. I wore out my library card, and always had more books than would fit on the shelf in my room.

But 25 years ago, there were only so many young adult books available. Judy Blume, Nancy Drew, Sweet Valley High - these are what I read the most of because that's what girls my age were supposed to be reading. And there's nothing wrong with those books, it's just that, well, I craved...MORE.

Every summer I would spend a few weeks at my aunt and uncle's house. They were book lovers as well, and truthfully, passed that passion on to me through many a trip to the library or out of the way bookstore. They had loads of books at their house, so one summer, I decided I was going to read some grown-up books.

What did I pick to start with? Salem's Lot by Stephen King. Probably not the best choice for a 12 year old, but I was determined and could not be swayed.

The book scared the crap out of me.

I was mesmerized, and read it all in one day. I read until my eyeballs felt like they would pop out of my head and every noise that house made was a vampire about to get me. I was frightened and exhilarated, and...couldn't wait to read the next one.

Thus began my love affair with horror and the paranormal. I became obsessed, and that summer I also read Cujo, Carrie, Christine, and Firestarter. The world of horror and the paranormal opened up and swallowed me whole. Something about finding fear in the everyday or that there's more to this life than we know totally appealed to 12 year old me and made my imagination take flight.

That's when I really started writing my own stories, filling notebook after notebook, all the while devouring books like a person starved. I specifically became obsessed with vampires, and to this day have one bookcase in my house devoted entirely to vampire fiction.

I owe that "horrific" summer the credit for steering me onto this path of a writer, showing me so much more than I could ever have imagined. Books are and always will be what sustains me. And I pray they continue to inspire and entertain generations to come.

Who knows? Maybe even one of my stories will spark a light in another 12 year old...

All I can do is hope!

Happy Reading!

Sweet Bytes by Kimber An

2011-10-17T17:24:00.001-07:00

Check out this new release from fellow YA author Kimber An!

Sweet Bytes

Ophelia’s escape from Martin, an Addicted Newblood, came at a terrible sacrifice.
Adrian, the boy she loves, is now infected and hunted like vermin.

As her new Protector, Tristan Li represents the Oldblood determination to destroy Adrian, along with all the Newbloods, addicted or not.

In her grief, Ophelia hates everything about Tristan, until his subtle strength empowers her to resist being turned into a vampire by the High Prefect.

As Tristan helps Ophelia harness her empathic ability, his need for redemption rings in her heart. Her own strength grows, along with her passion for freedom.

The veil of mourning lifts.

The evil of Martin returns.

Ophelia seizes ownership of her destiny.

Available NOW from Noble Young Adult!

Sweet Bytes by Kimber An

2011-10-17T17:24:00.000-07:00

She Works Hard For The Money...

2011-09-14T13:55:00.000-07:00

Been awhile since I posted, but just wanted to take a moment to catch you all up on the happenings in my crazy life.

First and foremost, I took a new job and am working full time again. Didn't really have a choice, since bills like to pile up. So, for the first time in over 12 years, I am at a new store, managing a new frame shop. It's hectic and insane most days, because retail is seriously NOT for the faint of heart, but it's a living.

This being said, my writing has had to take a little bump in the road due to my lack of time. I'm still banging the keys when I'm not too tired to stare at the laptop screen, but my productivity has definitely taken a hit. Not to fear, though. The stories and characters in my head like to torment me when I should be sleeping, so I will get them out of my head if it kills me.

Hubby got me a new laptop so I can use every moment to my advantage. Either that, or he was just tired of hearing me complain about the frequent blue screens and sluggish response time of the old one. Probably both. New one purrs like a kitten, though.

Plotting the next two Hell House stories, and tweaking some other WIPs for submission. Always thinking about what comes next...

Happy Reading!

Midnight's Edge by Buffy Christopher

2011-08-24T07:22:00.000-07:00

My fellow Sapphire Blue Publishing author, Buffy Christopher, has a new release in her m/m vampire series!

Midnight’s back and this time Julius is after him. After leaving Julius, a master vampire who was keeping him as a sex toy, Midnight is running for his life. With his lover Danger’s help, Midnight will try to find Jade, the rival vampire master struggling for control of Portland, Oregon. Will she give Midnight the asylum he seeks or will Jade leave him and Danger to fight Julius alone?

And she's having a contest on her blog! Leave a comment to win some sexy m/m vampire books!

Buffy Christopher's Blog

Happy Reading!

Fabulously Young ePubs

2011-08-17T15:10:00.000-07:00

Just a heads up to let you all know that I've been invited to be a regular contributor for a blog that includes a great group of young adult writers!

It's called Fabulously Young ePubs, and I will post the fourth Wednesday of each month. There's some great authors here, and I'm sure you'll want to check it out EVERY day as well.

Here's where I'll talk specifically about my Hell House series, as well as any other young adult stories I may be working on.

And who knows, I just might give away some books periodically too!

So be sure to follow and enjoy!

Fabulously Young ePubs

New Release!

2011-08-01T09:23:00.000-07:00

The third book in my YA Hell House series released today! It's called Vampires Don't Dance.

Blurb:

Teenage fairy, Sora Starwind, is finally making her way in the mortal world. The guy of her dreams, Liam Crawford, has asked her to his school’s Spring dance, and she finally feels, well, normal. Trouble is,Liam has a secret of his own that brings with it a whole new set of complications. Not only does Sora have to worry about Liam’s friends liking her, she also has to guard his secret, and deal with the school harlot that wants Liam for her own. Add a pair of obsessed paranormals that intend to unleash more chaos than just ruining her evening and Sora finds her newfound control stretched to the brink. Can she find more answers than questions this time, so that this first dance won’t also be her last?

Available from Sapphire Blue Publishing

Happy Reading!

Free Read Is Up!

2011-07-28T07:49:00.001-07:00

I've been working on a free read project for awhile, now, and finally have it up on the website! Cover art is awesome, and by the talented Dara England.

Blurb:

Darcy Abrams is consumed by grief. Losing her husband eight months before, her life has been reduced to long days filled with work and loneliness. What sleep she does snatch is plagued by nightmares. When one last bad dream pushes her to her breaking point, a visit from her dead husband, Eric, almost convinces her she’s finally gone crazy. But Eric brings a revelation that turns her entire world inside out. Can his promise of forever surpass even death itself?

PDF can be downloaded here. Enjoy!

TWRP TWEET-4-ALL!

2011-07-12T19:40:00.000-07:00

The authors of The Wild Rose Press are planning to take over Twitter! Wednesday, July 13th, we're going to blast the Twitter-verse with tweets about our own books, and our colleagues' books. Then we'll re-tweet and hashtag away until everyone will have to click the links and find out what great authors we all are!

My Wild Rose Press release is my paranormal/fantasy romance Through Hell and High Water.

Blurb:

What if your life is nothing but a spell full of lies…?

When Melaina attends her friend’s Halloween party she never expects to be thrust into a surreal world. But she finds herself irresistibly drawn to a broad-shouldered stranger who somehow knows her name. When one of the guests disappears in flames, the sexy hunk whisks her away…and spins a fantastic tale.

Oren knows Melaina is a real-life water nymph under a faery’s memory spell. Melaina is his soul mate and their betrothal restored power to the naiad people--until a demon decided he'd rather have Melaina for himself. Now, the demon has tracked her down and Oren must find a way to restore Melaina's memory before it is too late.

Melaina is astonished. Naiads? Faeries? Demons? But she can't ignore her attraction to Oren--or the way his touch is making her body remember things her brain can't...

Excerpt:

A plan had just begun to take shape in my head when I saw “him” across the room.

He stood tall and broad shouldered, his pale skin practically glowing in the light. His blond hair, slightly darker than my own, barely skimmed his shoulders and framed the most handsome face I think I’d ever seen. High, sculpted cheekbones melded into a solid jaw set with determination. His shirt stretched across a muscular chest, and the blue fabric matched my own costume.

My breath caught as my eyes committed each minute detail of him to memory. My mouth watered as my eyes eagerly drank him in. He had the bottom of his shirt tucked into the narrow waistband of black leather pants that hugged a pair of firm thighs like an embrace.

When my gaze returned to his face from the little visual vacation it took over his perfect body, I found him staring at me with a pair of ocean-blue eyes I thought of drowning in. Something about his eyes reminded me of the ones that stared back at me from the mirror each day. That fact I noted with a start. Whoa.

I stood mesmerized as he walked towards me. He moved with a grace unlike any man I’d ever seen, gliding across the room with fluid and deliberate strides.

He stopped in front of me, his eyes even more striking and blue up close, and they were intently studying me. I looked down for a moment, confusion clouding my brain. I realized we were standing in the middle of the room. Apparently, my feet had a mind of their own and decided to meet him halfway, because I had no memory at all of giving them the command to move.

Available for purchase from:
The Wild Rose Press
Amazon.com
All Romance eBooks
Barnes & Noble

Remembering Summers Gone By...

2011-06-30T11:37:00.000-07:00

Summer is officially here. This kids are out of school, days are longer, and lightning bugs sparkle in the night. Fourth of July weekend is upon as as well, when families celebrate our freedoms in this country with barbecues, pool parties, and other activities.

Which got me thinking about summers gone by.

I grew up pretty poor, so we didn't really take family vacations. The most my family would do is maybe drive a couple hours to see people for a few days, but we didn't go on long car trips or travel much at all.

However, this isn't me in a vain attempt to garner pity. I was lucky enough to have an aunt and uncle that looked out for me. Summer for me was when I'd get to go spend time at my Aunt Billie's and Uncle Bill's house.

They would swoop in and snatch me away for weeks during the summer, or as long as my parents would let me be gone. Their home was only a few hours away, but it seemed like another world to me. They would take me to movies, museums, theme parks, anything they could think of that was fun to do. Even after they had their own child, they still included me in all their family fun.

Some of our best times were when we'd pile in the car and just take off without a plan, just seeng where we'd end up. Usually it included a book store, because they both held an immense love for reading, and always nurtured that love in me. We'd find out of the way bookstores and spend the whole day getting lost in stories and finding treaures. Even when we'd just stay at the house, we'd have cookouts, fireworks, and play outside in the sprinkler. I had an entire set of friends there, and they were always more than welcome to join in all the fun.

Billie and Bill showed me how much beauty and wonder there was in the world if you'd just stop and take the time to notice. They had a huge garden in their backyard where we'd pick fruits and vegetables daily. Sunflowers taller than me would sway in the wind and yield huge bounties of seeds to munch on. Cats and dogs would play in the sun, or keep me company on lazy days inside reading.

Those times were simply magical to me and helped shape me as an idividual in more ways than I can even explain. They always called me "princess" and made me feel like one, too.

Uncle Bill has long since passed, but Aunt Billie is still around. She still calls me "princess" and makes me smile every second I'm with her. Her home has always been another home to me and always will be. I lived with her when I went to college and learned how to be an adult. Every stage of my life is connected to her in some way, but my childhood summers at her house were just the best times ever.

So what are your best and brighteset summer memories?

Blog, Interrupted

2011-05-04T07:34:00.000-07:00

Well, my grandiose plans of being more productive and blogging more frequently kind of got blown all to hell. You know how life can be. Just when you think it's all going according to plan, the Universe gives you a big kick in the stomach as if to say "think again."

My family has been sidelined by ill parents the past two months. First, my mother-in-law got severe pneumonia and had to be hospitalized on a ventilator in the ICU for over a week. She's in physical therapy and recovering, and then my father had a heart attack that ended up in a triple bypass, pacemaker surgery. Complications from that landed him in the ICU on a vent as well. He's finally on the mend, and things look like they might get back to normal.

I've gotten my first round edits for Vampires Don't Dance. Hopefully we can still get it out this summer, despite my little veer off the writing path. Fairy Fury got it's first review. Four Cups from Coffee Time Romance. I'm excited about that, since the book went through a significant plot change during edits. Now I need to haul ass on the next stories, and make up for lost time.

As always, life goes on.

Wednesday Wanderings...

2011-04-06T12:09:00.000-07:00

So my post last week was all about finding what people look for in a blog from a writer. I got some excellent comments, and promised to give away a book. So without further ado, the winner is...

Sara Thompson!

Shoot me an email, Sara, at chris_arie at yahoo dot com and let me know what ebook you'd like as your prize! My entire library, along with blurbs and excerpts can be found at www.christlegray.com

Wedensdays are typically "concentrate on writing days" for me. I'm off from the day job that pays the bills, and try to cram in writing, blogging, edits - whatever fills my plate at that particular moment. For those of us that have to juggle a regular job with writing, (and there's alot of us) time management is crucial to our success. Sleep gets pushed to the back burner, along with sacrificing time with family and friends, all so we can chase that dream that drives us - to write and share our stories with others.

There are people who've spent years perfecting the craft and pursuing publication. I took a very long break from writing and didn't really get serious about it again until 2007, and then got my first publishing contract in 2008. Some might say I got lucky, but I'd like to think that I finally knew I had what it took to go after what I wanted, and decided to do it. I'm still learning about the business, but man, I'm loving this ride. The adrenaline rush is addicting, from when you finish a manuscript, to when you get that contract offer, and then see all your hard work come to fruition. It's like running a marathon, the endorphins practically making you giddy.

I still struggle to make it all happen, and there's still plenty to learn, but I'm willing to put in the time and effort. I mean, if I expect someone to pay to read the craziness that fills my head, I'd better be damn sure they feel that craziness is worth it!

And that being said, I've got a couple of personal projects that I hope to be able to share soon, too. Because hey, I make the rules, here, and I do what I want! (LOL)

Until then, Happy Reading!

Tell me what you want, what you really really want...

2011-03-30T12:00:00.000-07:00

Soooo...I've been trying to blog more lately (uh-huh), and use my time more effectively (yeah, right), and I've come to one very frightening and obvious conclusion.

I have no earthly idea what I'm doing.

Seriously, I'm just making it up as I go along, people. I want to have interesting things to say, and posts so astounding that you have to talk about them with everyone you know(a girl can dream). But the fact is that I don't really know what people want to read, and what drives them to visit blogs and leave comments, or become members of websites. Hell, I can't even decipher that stuff for my own life. I never seem to know what will prick my interest from one day to the next. (I'm a gemini - don't judge me - LOL)

So what I want to know is - what do YOU guys want to see? What flicks your bic, or floats your boat? If it's contests and free stuff - what kinds of free stuff? Do you like free reads - posted stories or downloadable files? Polls? Heavy topics with controversy or fun, silly things to think about?

To make things more interesting, if you take the time to leave a comment and give me feedback, I'll enter you to win your choice of any of my ebooks, the winner to determined April 6th.

So, fire away, and give me something good!

P.S. - And don't forget to visit Crystal-Rain Love for the tail end of the Fool For Romance Contest! Winner will be picked April 1st!

New Release!

2011-03-21T16:25:00.000-07:00

Fairy Fury Released today! YAY!

Sora Starwind just wants to have a normal life. Well, as normal as a banished teenage fairy living in a halfway house for paranormals can have. Squashing her magic mishaps is just part of the equation.

Catching the eye of a certain hottie named Liam Crawford would be a plus, if she could only figure out how to not act like a complete dork around him. Then a surprise visit from her estranged mother brings an ultimatum that threatens to turn Sora’s world upside down.

Unexpectedly faced with her past, Sora has to find the inner strength to deal with her banishment, but there’s more to her story than even she knows…

The characters in this series are very close to my heart, and I'm so glad Sapphire Blue Publishing continues to believe in them and me so that I can share it all with YOU!

Purchase Fairy Fury

Happy Reading!

Fool For Romance Contest!

2011-03-11T09:00:00.000-08:00

It's that time of year again! Time to show how much of a fool you are for a happily ever after, and enter to win some great prizes, including a brand spanking new KINDLE!

Crystal-Rain Love has gathered a lovely group of authors to donate prizes. Visit Here for full details and the schedule. I am donating a copy of my Wild Rose Press release, Through Hell and High Water, and perhaps a few other items.

To enter, all you have to do is leave me a comment here on the blog about what you are truly a fool for, when it comes to romance. Me, I'm a sucker for a hero that has a smart mouth and a sense of humor. Nothing is sexier than a guy that makes me laugh.

I'll pick a name from the commenters, and forward that on to Rain for entry into the grand prize drawing. And perhaps a few runner-up prizes as well...

So what are you waiting for?

New Cover Art!

2011-03-10T10:42:00.000-08:00

My second book in the Hell House series, Fairy Fury, has cover art! Take a gander!

Kendra Egert has done an awesome job, once again! I just love how tough my teenage fairy, Sora Starwind, looks. She sure doesn't take flack from anyone, and I'm SO excited to tell more of her story!

I'm going through the galley now, and should have a release date sometime soon!

SQUEE!

Reviews Are In!

2011-02-23T13:10:00.000-08:00

Hello, my lovelies! It's been almost two months since Through Hell and High Water was released upon the cyber world, and I'm happy to report, that it seems like people like it!

Awesome!

The Romance Studio gave me four hearts, which makes me want to squee! Full Review Here

Nocturne Romance Reads gave me four and a half hoots - another squee moment! Full Review Here

Seriously Reviewed gave me an eighteen out of twenty. WOOT! Full Review Here

You Gotta Read Reviews gave me a You Want To Read! Full Review Here

Writers are always questioning their work, so reviews do mean the world to us. We draw on them to keep plugging away in this business, especially when we're in a tough spot.

In other news, I'm nearing the end of edits on Fairy Fury, and have seen a preview of cover art. It's pretty cool! I am hoping to have a March release, but I'll post when I get confirmation. I'm also working on entering the genre of erotica more heavily, probably with a pen name to keep it seperate from my YA works. I just need to decide on a name. More on that when I get more information as well.

All in all - everything's looking good!

New Release!

2011-01-05T08:36:00.000-08:00

It's here! Release day for my Faery Rosette with The Wild Rose Press, Through Hell and High Water! Happy day!

Blurb:

What if your life is nothing but a spell full of lies…?

When Melaina attends her friend’s Halloween party she never expects to be thrust into a surreal world. But she finds herself irresistibly drawn to a broad-shouldered stranger who somehow knows her name. When one of the guests disappears in flames, the sexy hunk whisks her away…and spins a fantastic tale.

Oren knows Melaina is a real-life water nymph under a faery’s memory spell. Melaina is his soul mate and their betrothal restored power to the naiad people--until a demon decided he'd rather have Melaina for himself. Now, the demon has tracked her down and Oren must find a way to restore Melaina's memory before it is too late.

Melaina is astonished. Naiads? Faeries? Demons? But she can't ignore her attraction to Oren--or the way his touch is making her body remember things her brain can't...

Excerpt:
A plan had just begun to take shape in my head when I saw “him” across the room.

He stood tall and broad shouldered, his pale skin practically glowing in the light. His blond hair, slightly darker than my own, barely skimmed his shoulders and framed the most handsome face I think I’d ever seen. High, sculpted cheekbones melded into a solid jaw set with determination. His shirt stretched across a muscular chest, and the blue fabric matched my own costume.

My breath caught as my eyes committed each minute detail of him to memory. My mouth watered as my eyes eagerly drank him in. He had the bottom of his shirt tucked into the narrow waistband of black leather pants that hugged a pair of firm thighs like an embrace.

When my gaze returned to his face from the little visual vacation it took over his perfect body, I found him staring at me with a pair of ocean-blue eyes I thought of drowning in. Something about his eyes reminded me of the ones that stared back at me from the mirror each day. That fact I noted with a start. Whoa.
I stood mesmerized as he walked towards me. He moved with a grace unlike any man I’d ever seen, gliding across the room with fluid and deliberate strides.

He stopped in front of me, his eyes even more striking and blue up close, and they were intently studying me. I looked down for a moment, confusion clouding my brain. I realized we were standing in the middle of the room. Apparently, my feet had a mind of their own and decided to meet him halfway, because I had no memory at all of giving them the command to move.

Available now in digital formats from The Wild Rose Press!

Happy New Year!

2011-01-03T09:31:00.000-08:00

Another year has come and gone! Can you believe it? Time just flies by anymore.

Now, I'm not one for making resolutions.

I know, *gasp* and *sputter*

You see, I believe that every day should start with resolutions, no matter what the calendar says. Each dawn brings with it a fresh chance to accomplish some small step towards your dreams. Because as we all know, it's not about the destination, it's about the journey we take to get there!

My journey has had its fair share of bumps and detours, but I'm getting better at keeping on my path. It might be twisty and curvy, but its my individual path, and I make the best of it! That includes having the opportunity to renew my contract for my first novel, aptly titled Second Chances, with a possible option for print availability. I'm a huge fan of the e-book revolution, but having something in print will just be a way for more opportunities to come my way. Not to mention how this attests to how much Sapphire Blue Publishing is growing in the industry itself. And Sapphire Blue has accepted two more stories in my Hell House series, so 2011 will see Fairy Fury and Vampires Don't Dance released. Also, my first release with Wild Rose Press comes out in just 2 days! I've already gotten one nice review for Through Hell and High Water, and am so excited to be able to call myself a multi-published author!

I continue to be thankful and blessed with friends and family that support my writing and help me grow.

2011 is going to be amazing, and I'm looking forward to every second of it.

How about you?

Contest Winners and Nano Results

2010-12-01T09:03:00.000-08:00

November came and went with a flurry of writing activity for me. Did I make the 50K goal?

Alas, no.

However, I finished my YA novella and sent it to the editor for consideration, and I wrote a m/m novella and sent it to a submissions call. Both were goals I wanted to at least make for Nano. I think my total word count ended up around 25k for the month. Half of what was expected, but a personal best for me. I'm now knee-deep in edits for number two of my YA series, and getting excited for my Wild Rose Press release January fifth.

I hosted a contest in November to give thanks to all the folks that are members of my site and followers of my blog. I picked winners this morning.

First Place - Willow
Second Place - Val

I'm waiting to hear what books they pick as their prizes. I want to try and have some kind of a contest for the Christmas holiday. Any thoughts or ideas would be greatly appreciated.

As for now - back to edits!

NaNo Update and Contest!

2010-11-05T09:27:00.000-07:00

So, I'm still writing. My brain hasn't rebelled enough to send me off in another direction. No shiny objects to steal my attention away...yet.

Word count so far:
November 3rd - 1618
November 4th - 984

I think that brings the total so far up to 4871. Not too bad. Still have to get in some today.

Now - on to the contest! I want to give thanks to everyone! So, from now through November 30th, you can enter to win free books!

One first place winner will win their choice of one of my books, and any other two titles from the Sapphire Blue Publishing catalog.

One second place winner will win their choice of one of my books.

Free e-books! What's not to love?

How to enter? Well the first and easiest way is to become a site member at my website www.christlegray.com
Don't worry, if you already are a member, you're entered without even trying! (wasn't that easy?)

If you'd like another entry, then leave a guestbook message, letting me know!

Want a third entry? Then become a follower of my blog! Again, if you're already a follower, you've already gained another entry!

On December 1st, I will pick two winners from all the entries.

Free books to give thanks!

NaNoWriMo...Yo!

2010-11-03T10:56:00.000-07:00

It's National Novel Writing Month! Authors everywhere take up their computers and rise to meet the challenge of 50,000 words or more in thirty days! It's crazy! It's chaotic!

It's NaNoWriMo!

I've never taken part before, and am still a little leery, so I decided to participate unofficially. There's multiple projects I want to work on, so I'll spread the words around to meet the goal. I'm going to try to keep track of it all and post tallies, but I can be easily sidetracked, so keep that in mind!

November 1st - none
November 2nd - 2269k

I'm trying to finish a young adult novella, then want to start on an erotic novella.

Here's to MUCH writing!

Cover Art!

2010-10-12T08:15:00.000-07:00

My Wild Rose Press release is almost ready! I got the beautiful cover art last night, and just had to share!

Nicola Martinez did and exceptional job. I couldn't be happier.

I hope to have a release date soon. Will keep you posted!

Vacation and Edits

2010-09-26T11:41:00.000-07:00

Sooooo...I spent the past week on vacation. Did I have an exciting trip planned to an exotic locale where pool boys serve me drinks with colorful umbrellas?

Alas, no.

However, what I did get to do was indulge in some seriously needed R&R - which included sleeping late, watching tv, reading until my eyes bugged out, writing, and the best part - taking care of edits for my Wild Rose Press Release, Through Hell and High Water.

I've been uber-excited to work with Fran at TWRP. She's awesome, and has made my story shine like I never thought it could. I'm so happy we work well together. It makes me want to write more stories, just so she can edit them! Now all we need is cover art, which should be any time. Be assured, as soon as I get the go ahead, I will plaster that baby all over every blog, profile, author page I have on this world wide web.

Until then, it's on to the next project.

A Change Is Gonna Come

2010-09-05T08:09:00.001-07:00

Well, one of the things I struggle with most in my life is time management.

I know. Big shocker, there.

Balancing a disabled husband, full time job, and fledgling writing career with some kind of regular life escapes me quite often.

And so, I have made a big decision. I am giving up my full time job and going to part time. That way, I can have more time to devote to writing, blogging, and promotion.

Is this the smartest thing for me to do in the current economy? Possibly not. Am I crazy? Most definitely.

The thing is, I'm at a point in my life where I know I need to make a change. A REALLY big change. We're only on this rock for just a short while, and need to make the most of it. Continuing on the path I've been on for the last 11 years just wasn't working for me anymore.

So at the end of September, I will join the ranks of part time. I will still look for another job, but hopefully, I'll be able to get enough writing done so that I won't need it. All I can do is try.

Wish me luck!

News!

2010-08-24T17:18:00.000-07:00

I know I've been away awhile, (yeah, AGAIN) but I have news to report!

I've been offered a contract for a short story with The Wild Rose Press!

Hurray!

I've always wanted to become a part of the Rose Garden, and now I will be!

The story is called Through Hell and High Water, and is for their Faery Rose line. It's got water nymphs, a fairy, and a few demons from Hell to add some spice.

I'm super excited, and I can't wait to start editing.

I'll keep you posted!

Update Time

2010-07-02T18:15:00.001-07:00

Well, I'm still not blogging as regularly as I'd like. I can give you the usual excuses...no time, work, busy with life.

Whatever.

Truth is, I can't manage time worth a damn. Never could. Self discipline and I , we don't speak most of the time. We have a very rocky relationship.

However, I do have some good news to share. Fairy Fury was accepted by Sapphire Blue Publishing. YAY! Now, I'm just waiting to start on edits.

Then, I will probably yell and cry and want to rip out my hair. You know. Good times.

Either way, I'm excited, and just need to get a few of my other projects in the finish pile so I can send them off into the world, all growed up and all.

But before that, I have to make it through working July Fourth weekend at the day job. *sigh*

Anyhow, Happy July Fourth!

Writing, Writing, and More Writing...

2010-05-12T14:38:00.000-07:00

Apparently, I suck at this whole blog posting thing. I mean, seriously, it's been like five weeks since I posted? WTF? I deserve to be shot. Or beaten. Or maybe just chastised very harshly.

But, I have been busy lately. And not just the normal day job from hell busy either. I finished the next Hell House story. It's called Fairy Fury, and it features surly teenage fairy Sora Starwind, who I introduced in Holiday Hell House. It's been polished and sent off the publisher, waiting for a yes or no. (yes, please)

I've already started on the next one in the series, featuring teenage zombie Zoe Talbot. I promise lots of laughs and much zombie shenanigans! No title yet, but I'm working on it!

I've also been working on a fantasy story about water nymphs, demons, and fairies. Tentatively titled Through Hell and High Water, I hope to have it finished and submitted by the end of the month as well.

So, you see, I have a genuine excuse for not posting! You can now put away your weapons.

AND, Sapphire Blue Publishing has made our books available at Barnes and Noble! I'm on the Nook! (insert happy dance here) Check it out! My Book Page

To Read, Or Not To Read

2010-03-31T14:55:00.000-07:00

One of my fellow authors, Lisa Pietsch, posted a blog recently about a children's book that had caused a bit of a stir at another author's school board meeting. The book in question was Newberry Award Winner The Giver by Lois Lowry.

Apparently, some of the parents were concerned that this book was on the reading list for the fifth graders at that school, and felt it was too mature for that age group and requested the book be removed from the list.

I am always one to take the side of the book, but I wanted to find out about it before I made my decision. So, I picked up The Giver from my local B&N and settled in for what I hoped to be a good read.

The book blew me away.

I was sucked in to the story at once, fascinated by the world Lois Lowry created. The Giver takes place in a futuristic "utopian" society where everything is organized and controlled. There is no worry, no hunger, no war. But in trade, there is also no individuality, no joy, no love. People make no decisions for themselves. The young hero, Jonas, is about to turn twelve and get his job assignment for the rest of his life. He is chosen to be the community's new Receiver of Memory. All memories of all life before will be transferred to Jonas to bear alone, so that society may continue to exist without the burden. Jonas discovers many things that he can't belive have been "lost" to the community, such as colors, music, snow - but he also finds out what pain is, loss, and in the end discovers the hipocrisy that this utopia is built on, driving him to make the first and possibly final choice in his young lifetime.

There are so many things to spark discussion for young people in this book. The topic of what utopia means, or world peace, or what sacrifices might have to be made for a society to run without trouble. What emotions really mean, and how can we say someone is wrong if they have never been shown another way? Not to mention the underlying theme of how a world would be if no one was treated as an individual - complete and total equality. I would have loved to have read this book as a student, and I see no problem with the 7-12 year age rage it is rated.

I think parents that get up in arms over books that obviously were chosen for their literary contribution to the learning process should step back and take a real look at why they are uncomfortable. Turn it around. TALK about it with your kids. Use the opportunity to get to know your child better and how he or she thinks.

That's the power of books for children.

Use it.

Snow, Snow, Snow

2010-02-17T11:23:00.000-08:00

So, there's been a lot of snow in my neck of the woods lately.

And I mean A LOT.

So much, that the hubby and I couldn't even get to work on Monday this week. We live in a cul-de-sac, and it gets plowed last, making it difficult to venture out in bad weather.

It's funny, because as a child, I adored the snow. I would stay out and play in the white stuff for hours on end, making forts, angels, and having snowball fights with my friends. Now, it's just a nuisance that prevents me from getting things done.

I wonder when that changed - when I lost my childlike wonder of the snow.

I can't think of anything specific that caused that shift in my outlook.

I guess it's just part of the whole "being a grown up" process that we all must go through.

Kinda sucks. I miss that about myself.

On a positive note, being stuck indoors has made me spend some quality time writing, which I need to get back into the habit of doing more regularly. Oh, and I've read like four books in the past two weeks as well.

So maybe the snow isn't so bad after all.

New Year, New Ideas, New Obstacles

2010-01-27T07:04:00.000-08:00

So the new year has hit me like a ton of bricks.

I just finished peak season at my day job, and they threw inventory hell on top of that. Add one messed up shoulder and you have a recipe for aggravation.

Regardless, I've been nursing some story ideas in my head. I'm working on a new vampire erotic story called Blood and Moonlight. Also, I'm working on the next Hell House story, which happens to be surly Sora's story, called Hell House: Fairy Fury. I'm excited about my Hell House characters the most. There's so much to pull from, and it's Sapphire Blue's first young adult release as well.

The only thing is, it's a little difficult to type when your shoulder is screaming at you to stop. So, things are a little slow until I'm back at 100%.

But I have faith that I'll be back on track soon!

Preditors and Editors Poll

2010-01-05T05:20:00.000-08:00

My two short stories, Summon Me Swiftly and Holiday Hell House are nominated in the Preditors and Editors Poll!

Summon Me Swiftly is in the Sci Fi/Fantasy short story category. You can vote for it here:
http://www.critters.org/predpoll/shortstorysf.shtml

Holiday Hell House is in the All Other Short Stories Category.
You can vote for it here:
http://www.critters.org/predpoll/shortstory.shtml

(Voting is open until January 14, 2010. There are lots of other categories with great books as well, so look around and have a voting party!

New Holiday Release - Holiday Hell House!

2009-12-23T10:14:00.000-08:00

I have a new release for the holidays!

Blurb:

There’s no place like Hell House for the holidays…
At least that’s what Danielle Stewart hopes for as the director of Hellsner Halfway House for Troubled Paranormal Teens. But all her plans come to an abrupt halt with the help of bickering teens, unannounced zombies, and a portal to hell among other things.

When the arguing leads to things quite literally going up in smoke, will Danielle find that her true calling lies elsewhere, or will the help of an unexpected angel show her the family she has longed for is right before her eyes?

Available from www.sapphirebluepublishing.com and many other e-retailers!

(It's already a best seller at All Romance Ebooks!)

Happy Holidays!

The Most Craziest Time of the Year

2009-12-02T11:16:00.000-08:00

I'm a bit stressed. November flew by, and December is here. That means Christmas is now less than a month away.

I work in retail, so this time of year gets crazy at my day job. Our business doubles, even triples some days. I enjoy being busy, but keeping up with deadlines can be hectic! Not to mention, the orders get more complicated and take more time to do, since people like to give shadowboxes as gifts. I usually end up sewing and pinning things until I can't feel my fingertips!

I always have grand plans on things I want to give as gifts. I want to crochet scarves and hats, draw portraits, make jewelry. And yet, every year, I find myself scrambling to make things at the last minute, or breaking down and buying something instead.

Apparently, I suck when it comes to planning.

However, one present I am giving myself this year is the completion of a holiday short story, which Sapphire Blue has picked up for publication. I've always wanted to write a holiday story, but never forced myself to take the time for follow through. We are in the editing process, and hope to have it out later this month. I can't wait to see what they come up with for the cover!

I'll share more as the details come in!

And now, on to more craziness...

Christle
http://www.christlegray.com

Retail Rant Revisited - Episode Seven - You Want To Do What?...With What?

2009-11-25T13:00:00.000-08:00

My days are filled with questions at my day job. This is ok, since the biggest part of my job is customer service, and I actually enjoy helping people for the most part.

But sometimes, customers are extremely vague about what they are looking for, yet expect me to know EXACTLY what they need. As if I can use my super powers to see inside their brains. If I had these super powers, I really don't think I'd be working a retail job.

So on occasion, I get to spend time with a customer, playing twenty questions and wandering around the store in order to figure out that "that stuff that looks like felt, but isn't felt" IS indeed felt.

Whatever.

Other times, customers are so confused, they don't even know where they are. I get asked where the shower curtains are, or the bedspreads. I find myself having to explain that we do not carry these items in an arts and crafts store, and that maybe they should try Bed, Bath, and Beyond. Usually, they nod, their eyes glazing over as they try to recall where they are shopping at the moment. I've even had them laugh and ask me where they are.

And since I am at an arts and crafts store, I get alot of questions from people who are trying to figure out how to something themselves, even if that isn't the best way. This can be fun, since I get to rack my brain with ideas to help others be creative. But sometimes, the questions can be a little, well...disturbing.

For example, a few years ago, I was asked by a man for something clear that you could preserve something in. Of course, I asked what, exactly, he was wanting to preserve. He then proceeded to explain to me how he wanted to preserve his recently amputated leg, because he didn't want the hospital to dispose of it, and he didn't want to bury it. Instead, he wanted to be able to look at it whenever he wanted, because it was a good leg, and deserved the best.

I swallowed hard and convinced him we did not have anything that would be sufficient for that. And then I ran to the break room, too weirded out for words.

Sometimes, I really just want to show someone where the ribbon is, and leave it at that.

*A new one for the list - A customer asked a coworker of mine for a glue that would be sufficient for holding on a toupe. Not at an arts and crafts store, people!

Retail Rant Revisited - Episode Six - Black Friday Blues

2009-11-24T13:00:00.000-08:00

Black Friday.

Such an ominous name that retailers have for their best sales weekend of the year. Given such, because the sales made tend to shift each company from the red to the black for the year.

Last year was my tenth year of working Black Friday at my job. And the company started early, opening for three hours Thanksgiving evening as a preview. Since it was the first time we were open on Thanksgiving proper, no one knew exactly what to expect.

All I have to say about it is...Holy Crap.

There were so many people in the store, every cart and basket was in use. You couldn't walk down an aisle, it was so packed. The store did over $16,000 in three hours. And there were only nine people there to handle it all.

And Friday was even busier, as usual. You couldn't tell from the crowds of shoppers that there was any problem with the economy at all. Two stores down, people camped out in tents in the parking lot in front of the Best Buy to get an XBox 360.

Whoa.

In all my years of doing this, I still can't think of one item that I want so badly that I stand in line or sleep in a parking lot for a chance to get it.

And forget the whole "season of cheer and giving" thing this weekend. All politeness goes out the door as people complain, argue, and shove each other around to fill their carts with holiday gifts.

And I lost count of how many things crashed to the floor in a dozen or more pieces, casualties of the chaos. You Break It You Buy It is a thing of the past.

I don't hate people - I don't hate my job. I just get disgusted at the hipocrisy of it all. Customers descend like vultures, trashing stores and being rude to the sales people that wouldn't be there if they didn't have to, all under the guise of gift giving and holiday cheer.

What a crock.

Nothing like ten years of retail to turn you into a complete cynic.

If you can't tell - regardless of my schedule - I don't shop on Black Friday weekend. It's a principle thing.

*This year - I will be working Thanksgiving Day once again, as well as Black Friday. I'll be sure to come back with a full report for you after all the chaos!

Retail Rant Revisited - Episode Five - Wood Glue To You! And A Scrapbook Paper Too!

2009-11-23T13:00:00.000-08:00

Through my years in retail, I've often wondered what happened to common courtesy. It seems like all manners and politeness have taken a back seat in people's lives.

I was always taught to be courteous to others. Ask politely if you need help, and always thank the person who aided you.

Some customers try to adhere to this policy. "Could you help me please?" "Can you tell me where something is?" I have no qualms helping these people find whatever they need.

But there are those that can't even take the time to form a complete question. These people walk up to me and simply blurt out items. "Yarn." "Glue." "Candles." As if I'm supposed to know from one word exactly what they need and why.

It's like they are using some kind of secret greeting, a substitute for "hello" or "hi."

One of my coworkers gets this even more than I do. One day, he'd had enough. He was working in an aisle, and a customer walks up to him and blurts out "wood glue!"

He smiled politely and waved. "Wood glue to you, too!"

Luckily, the customer had a sense of humor and laughed, then asked in a complete sentence for help finding a certain kind of wood glue.

So, in his honor, wood glue, everyone! And a scrapbook paper too!

Retail Rant Revisited - Episode Four - Five Yard Penalty For Too Much Information!

2009-11-22T13:00:00.000-08:00

I'm a nice person. (Mostly) And a friendly person. (Usually) I work face to face with the public daily, so I keep my snarkiness in check and plaster on a smile so wide my face hurts most days. I make small talk. I help customers. I'm very good at my job.

But would someone please tell me why there are people out there who have this urge to share more than is really necessary during these typically brief encounters?

For example - When asking me for help in finding a photo frame - I expect the occasional story about grandkids, or family life. That's a given. But I've had people go on and on, their mouths running like leaky faucets about divorces, surgeries, affairs, diseases, deaths-there seems to be no end.

Do I really need to hear about your knee surgery and actually see your scar to help you find a frame?

Do I need you to spend fifteen minutes telling me about your neighbor's affair and subsequent divorce to direct you to the silk flowers?

Do I have to know what happened the past six months of your life in order to recommend a good craft paint for wood?

I REALLY think not.

Have we become a society so devoid of emotional contact with others that we have to find a captive audience and pour out the intimate details of our lives to strangers that we've known all of thirty seconds?

WHAT is up with that?

Just the other day, my coworker helped a man fit a poster into a frame. At the end of the transaction, the man decides to share that rainy days make him horny. I hardly think that's appropriate conversation.

A simple "thank you for helping me" would suffice nicely, don't you think?

But again, maybe it's just me.

Retail Rant Revisited - Episode Three - The Horrors Of Glitter Lung

2009-11-21T13:00:00.000-08:00

One day about three years ago, now, I arrived at work like usual. It was the start of the peak holiday season for us, (which means it was sometime in October.) I was working with Jon that day. Jon's a great guy - a very talented artist - but not very talkative. It was like pulling teeth to get him to speak sometimes.

But that never stopped me from trying.

Determined to always make the best of every situation, my mind raced for things I could try to talk about with him. I looked down and saw my slacks sparkling in the light.

"Now how in the world do I already have glitter on me? I just got here!" I brushed my slacks off in vain. "I swear, this stuff is everywhere this time of year!"

Jon looked across the table at me evenly, his expression unfaltering. "I think everyone who works here is going to die of Glitter Lung." Jon looked back down and resumed his work, as if his statement was something said every day.

I stared at him, open-mouthed. First, because he spoke without having been asked a direct question. Second, because he hardly ever tried to make a joke.

The giggles were coming. I felt them churning in my gut, clawing their way to the surface. I knew once they escaped, they wouldn't stop for awhile.

You see, in my store, EVERYTHING sparkles for the holidays - Halloween, Thanksgiving, and Christmas most of all. Glitter adorns the silk flower bushes, the stems, the made arrangements, the ornaments, the wreaths, the stockings, anything and everything you can think of shimmers with the stuff.

And so, my co-workers and I shimmer with the stuff as well. We get it on our hands, our clothes, our shoes, our hair - nothing escapes the sparkly stuff during peak season. We track it home with us, so it invades our cars, our carpets, our laundry baskets. My poor husband glimmers almost as much as I do every year.

We make the best of it at work. Everyone is resigned to shimmery sheik for peak season. Glitter fights have been known to ensue. We've even swept it up in piles and saved it for future use.

We make our own fun.

Jon has since moved on to better and brighter things, but I'll always remember his observation about Glitter Lung, and how he stared at me in confusion while I struggled to breathe through my laughter. I shared his statment with everyone else at the store.

Needless to say, Peak season is now always Glitter Lung season.

Thanks Jon.

Retail Rant Revisited - Episode Two - What Month Is It Anyway?

2009-11-20T13:00:00.000-08:00

Ever since I started my career in retail, my sense of time has become a little...skewed. The retail calendar differs greatly from the calendar that most people follow.

A great deal of the product in my store is seasonal, and switches out rapidly from one season and holiday to the next. This is to be expected, but our timeframe for such things is slightly different from how we live. Therefore, I constantly find myself in a conflicting set of environments.

You see, when everyone is celebrating winter and Christmas, my store is putting out the spring, Valentine's Day, and Easter items. Barely into spring, the summer flowers flood our sales floor, along with all the kid crafts that parents seek out to keep the little ones busy while out of school. Summer is usually when fall and winter start to rear their heads, pumpkins and santas piling into the store at an alarming rate.

Before retail, I couldn't imagine anyone needing to buy Christmas decorations in the summer. But sure enough, customers flock to our doors, asking for the ornaments and giftwrap before the school year even starts.

Why?

Don't we spend enough time commercializing each holiday already? Do we really need to drag everything out months and months in advance?

Not to mention the confusion it causes those of us that deal with this juxtaposition daily. Smelling Christmas Pine candles and listening to the animated santas all day, then stepping out into warm September weather is a bit of a shock sometimes. Not ot mention how utterly fed up with the holidays we retails workers get because of having to stare at the stuff months longer than necessary.

I used to decorate for every single holiday. My mother always made sure our house reflected every celebration - no matter how small. But as each year passes, I find that I care less and less, and my Easter bunnies, fall leaves, pumpkins, ornaments, etc. never make it out of their dark homes in the garage. I just can't seem to face them at home as well as at work.

It's almost as if the constant exposure has made me desensitized to the effects the holiday items have on other people. I no longer "ooh" and "ahh" over things like I did years ago.

Instead, my retail-muddled brain thinks:

We're putting out Christmas flowers? Must be August.

Retail Rant Revisited - Episode One

2009-11-19T17:08:00.000-08:00

I originally posted these rants on my Myspace blog last year, and have decided to post them again, and add a few things, since we are heading toward the peak retail season.

I think they're funny, and well, this is my blog, so I can do what I want!

Though I am trying to establish myself as an author, I do have a day-today job that I must have to pay the bills (especially in this economic climate). Since February of 1999, I have worked in the retail business for a large arts and crafts chain, predominately in art framing.

Almost ten years of experience in this area has been eye-opening for sure. When you deal with the public daily, you hone your observational skills and become witness to things you never ever expected to see. And you hear things you never wanted to hear.

I've dealt with people at their best, but more often, people at their worst. To be honest, I never really expected to be doing this job for so long. But I have collected MANY thoughts and experiences.

I often toyed with the idea of putting some of these things into a book. Since I already have a dozen book projects in the works, I decided that I will just hit the high points over a few blogs. I will share my rants, my WTF moments, and anything else I can think of.

Maybe through some humor, I can brace myself for possibly the worst peak season in retail I've ever had.

So sit back, read, laugh, and shake your head in disbelief. I promise - it's all true.

What I'm Thankful For

2009-11-18T09:00:00.000-08:00

Thanksgiving is almost here. The time where everyone is supposed to stop and take a moment to count their blessings.

With the stress of everyday living these days, I find it increasingly difficult to stop and smell the roses. This time of year is especially hectic in my retail day job. Longer hours, looming deadlines. More to do and less time to do it.

But at least I have a job to be stressed over. So many people don't even have that right now. Even when I want to pull my hair out, I make myself stop and take some deep breaths, because not having this job would give me a whole new set of problems.

Having a full time job with a commute does make the process of being a prolific writer a tad difficult, though. My time is very limited outside of work. And my husband has a multitude of health problems that keep us busy going to the doctor.

Despite all this, I know I'm blessed. I have a job. I have a home. I have a wonderful husband who's been madly in love with me since we were seventeen years old. I found a great publisher who believes in me and my work (when I can get it done-LOL) And through them, I have a fabulous group of author friends who keep me somewhat sane and definitely laughing.

And I'm thankful for readers who buy and read my books. Just today, I looked and found that my first release, Second Chances, is #2 on Sapphire Blue's contemporary list, and Summon Me Swiftly is #4 in the Romance/Erotic category.

I really do have alot to be thankful for!

Lots Going On!

2009-11-11T06:49:00.001-08:00

It's been a truly hectic couple of weeks for me! I have lots going on, which I'd like to share with you!

First, my new erotic short story, Summon Me Swiftly, is out at Sapphire Blue Publishing!

After a disappointing night fending off drunk suitors at her friend’s Halloween party, Amanda Swift is completely disenchanted with the dating scene. She’s even more fed up with being alone, and wishes she’d finally find that perfect guy to sweep her off her feet and make her toes curl with ecstasy. But Amanda’s evening quickly switches gears when she walks into her bedroom and discovers a very handsome — and very naked—hunk, who wants to please her in every way. But is this a case of be careful what you wish for?

I really enjoyed working on this story, and have plans for more fun short stories in the future. It was aslo a hoot to write spicier than I normally do. Of course, I had to pair it with alot of sarcastic humor as well!

In other news, I now have a book trailer for my first release, Second Chances. The fabulous people at www.scarletv.com held a contest, and I won! They were a pleasure to work with, and I'm sure I will use their services in the future. Have a look!

It's been a whirlwind couple of weeks, but I'm having a blast on the ride!

And on a final note - Happy Veteran's Day to all the men and women who work/have worked to keep us and our country safe!

New Cover Art!

2009-11-04T07:57:00.001-08:00

Well, I told you guys I was working on a short story with Sapphire Blue Publishing, and last night, I got an email with my cover art in it!

Take a gander!

Blurb:

After a disappointing night fending off drunk suitors at her friend’s Halloween party, Amanda Swift is completely disenchanted with the dating scene. She’s even more fed up with being alone, and wishes she’d finally find that perfect guy to sweep her off her feet and make her toes curl with ecstasy. But Amanda’s evening quickly switches gears when she walks into her bedroom and discovers a very handsome –and very naked— hunk who wants to please her in every way. You really do have to be careful what you wish for…

The release date might be as soon as next week, but I'll be sure to let you guys know when I know for sure.

It's a fun, snarky, sexy story that was a blast to write! I hope everyone has as much fun reading it as I had writing it!

Time Just Flies...

2009-10-28T16:19:00.001-07:00

I totally forgot to blog last week.

My bad.

Almost forgot today, but that switch in my brain finally kicked in and blinked at me repeatedly until I acknowledged it's significance.

Life has a funny way of getting in my way. I always have the best of intentions, but then things happen and days pass and the next thing I know, the list of things to do has piled up and rearranged, and I want to pull my hair out.

One good thing - my sister drove up from Texas to visit my folks in Ohio, so I will be going to see her this weekend. Haven't seen her since May, so I am excited.

I am also excited to announce that I will be having a short story coming out soon from Sapphire Blue Publishing. I'll pass along the info as soon as I know more, like cover art and release dates.

Fall starts my busiest time - at home AND at work. I'll do my best to not forget you guys again.

I just get a bit frazzled this time of year.

Rainy Day Musings

2009-10-14T10:33:00.001-07:00

Fall is here in Kentucky.

And unlike Buffy's glorious weather in the AZ, here it has come in with a soggy whimper.

There's typically a transition of cooler temperatures and brisker days, but lately it's just been a whole lot of rain, making a whole lot of cold. Which, in turn, makes me a whole lot of...blah.

I did manage to drag my fall decorations out of the garage last weekend and put them outside, thinking that might get me more into the spirit.

But alas, no such luck.

It's sad, too, because Fall has always been my favorite season, and Halloween my favorite holiday. I love dressing up, and have a closet full of various costumes and accessories that I pull from. This year, I will be working on Halloween, and need to think of a costume I can wear that will also be comfortable to work in all day.

If it weren't for all the dreary rain, I think I would be more into things this season. But Mother Nature has dumped a ton of water on us here this year, and doesn't seem to be finished yet.

I think I may have mentioned this before, but I'm REALLY tired of rain.

But I guess it's better than snow.

Holiday Retail Pessimism

2009-10-07T11:25:00.001-07:00

Wednesday, Wednesday, Wednesday.

Time for me to blog and be creative, entetaining, and witty.

Riiiigghhht.

I just finished a six day stretch at the day job. I'm pooped. Retail isn't for sissies, mind you, and I've been doing it for over ten years. And our peak season is just beginning, so it only gets worse from here.

And with the economy the way that it is, corporations are tightening the reins more than ever to make a profit. One way they do that is with cutting payroll. Buffy is feeling the vise of that with her daycare facility, and retail entities are cinching up too. That means that seasonal employment will be cut, and the regular employees will be required to do even more. Unfortunately, that also means less people in the store to run a cash register, so lines will be longer. Customers will not be happy with this, but it WILL be a factor this holiday season, so be prepared.

Myself, I try to stay out of the stores as much as possible the closer the holidays get. I make alot of gifts. Or take advantage of free shipping offers online. Fighting crowds and standing in line just isn't my bag, baby.

All of this pessimism too much for you? Here's the silver lining. Books make excellent gifts. And e-books are even better, since you don't even have to leave your house to buy them. They are predicting that e-readers will be this season's hottest gift, anyway.

So what are you waiting for? Go stock up on some great books at Sapphire Blue Publishing!

To Blog or Not To Blog...

2009-09-30T14:56:00.000-07:00

It's Wednesday, which means it's my day to spout some sort of exceptionally witty banter in a blog.

Trouble is, I'm just not feeling "blog worthy" lately.

I'm not depressed. There's nothing wrong. I just don't seem to have anything important to say.

I'm busy working. And writing. Reading a bit - print books AND e-books. And helping my hubby deal with the myriad health problems that have come up recently.

Fall is finally here. The leaves are turning, the weather is cooler. I usually get a little nostalgic in the fall. I'm going through old poems and stories and seeing if I can turn them into anything viable. Ideas are swirling around in my brain, and I tend to get a bit introverted when this happens, so I can sort them all out.

So in the meantime, have a great day. And pick up a Sapphire Blue E-book!

Sexy Guys of Sci Fi - Jamie Bamber

2009-09-23T09:42:00.000-07:00

I decided to get back into the swing of things with a new dose of science fiction hotness!

Today we celebrate hunky actor Jamie Bamber, aka Lee "Apollo" Adama on the re-imagined series of Battlestar Galactica from the SyFy network.

Bamber was born in Hammersmith, London, to Northern Irish mother Elizabeth (Liz) and an American father Ralph. He was educated at the independent St Paul's School in Barnes, London, and received a first class honours degree in Modern Languages (Italian and French) at St John's College, Cambridge, before attending the London Academy of Music and Dramatic Art (LAMDA).

The complexity of the characters on this series never failed to impress me, and Lee Adama was no exception. At the start of the series, Lee is a Captain in the Colonial Fleet Reserve, his father William Adama on the verge of retirement from the fleet. Their relationship is touchy, the loss of Lee's younger brother Zak in a piloting accident at the heart of all the drama. Not to mention the sexual tension between lee and Zak/s former fiance Kara "Starbuck" Thrace.

Due to the Cylons - robots created by man that now look human - waging war and attempting to wipe out the human race, Lee is forced to assume command of the pilots and keep them ready to defend what's left of the humans on various ships. Humanity has been divided up into 12 tribes/planets that reflect the signs of the zodiac. To keep everyone's hope alive, William Adama proposes that they search for a new home, a legendary 13th tribe called Earth.

This journey will not be an easy one. There will be much death, sadness, and despair. But there's also love. And hope. Lee, in particular, is on his own personal rollercoaster. He leads the pilots, gets promoted to Commander of his own ship, finally tells Kara he loves her, and then sees her marry another man. He even gives up his military calling to practice law like his grandfather for awhile, which leads to a short political career. But in the end, he comes back to the role of supporting his father and finally learns to make peace with life and love.

Battlestar Galactica was one of the best science fiction shows in a long while, in my opinion. The story was at the base, one of survival. But it also explored faith, religion, loyalty, and the warning that we need to take care with our technological developments - less they "take care" of us. And Jamie Bamber was a huge part of that. Not only was his portayal of Lee raw and honest - but what's not to like about a hunk with a bod like this?

Because in the end, it's all about great abs...LOL!

My Bad Boy Fantasy

2009-09-16T10:00:00.001-07:00

My taste in men is a little...different. I usually go for the quirky guy, the funny guy, the sweet guy. Smart and nerdy turn me on as well. (I said I was different.)

I kind of march to my own beat when it comes to what I like. Even as a teenager, I never really fit in with the cliques. The things (and boys) that my friends liked hardly ever interested me.

I was a fan of the show 21 Jumpstreet back in the day. (I know, I just severely dated myself) But while everyone mooned over Johnny Depp, I fell for Peter Delouise.

That is, until I was introduced to Richard Grieco as Dennis Booker.

Black leather, motorcycle, chip on his shoulder the size of a small continent - I fell HARD. All those stereotypes about the bad boy completely sucked me in with one look into those sultry dark eyes. All my standards and reasoning skills were chucked right out the window with a good case of teenage hormones gone wild.

Of course, my Mother was scared silly. She could handle my crushes on the sweet nerdy guys. Suddenly, her little girl wanted a boyfriend with a motorcycle and a propensity for danger.

And Richard fit the bill to a T. I did the fan girl thing and wallpapered my room with his photos. I even sent him fan mail. (but I got a personally autographed photo back! SQUEE!)

Like all teenage girls, I moved on, but Richard remains my one and only bad boy crush. And even as an adult, he makes me weak in the knees - just a little.

Since I get to deal in fantasies as a writer, I believe my next hero might just have some bad boy qualities.

Who is your bad boy fantasy?

This Is My Life...Really?

2009-09-09T09:40:00.000-07:00

Alas, it's blogging day for me today. I'm not in a very good mood, unfortunately. Perhaps I should fill you in on why...

Yesterday, my hubby had his first appointment at the rheumatologist for his arthritis. We had to be there at 8:30 am. There was about a 45 minute drive, so we had to be out of the house around 7:30.

One consultation, x-rays, bloodwork, and 3 hours later, we were finally free of the dimly lit interior to be greeted by an ominous looking sky. Deciding to get gas, I pulled into the station to do so. As soon as I pressed the trigger, the hose to the pump cracked and started spewing gasoline all over the ground - and my feet. Me and the other customers started screaming at the attendant to turn off the pump, which he finally did, just as the rain began it's torrential downpour.

So, I'm slipping and sliding all over the place, smelling like gasoline, water dripping off my nose, and I still need gas in my car. Wonderful.

I have to be at work at 2, so there's no time for a trip home to change, since that will take another hour at least round trip, and we need to eat lunch at some point.

I finally get the gas and we go the nearest Wal-Mart to buy me a new pair of shoes. I have a dress code at work, a very particular dress code, so I can't just get any pair of shoes, so it takes a little while. After the unplanned shoe shopping trip, we finally grab some lunch before I drop the hubby off at work, then get to my own job.

It was a hell night, so I didn't get out of work until about 10:20. After snatching the hubby, we made it home around 11:15. We were pooped.

So today, I slept late, since I'm off, but had to run a few errands. One was going to the post office to pick up registered mail that we were not home to receive. Curious, I opened the envelope to see what it was.

It was a summons. Me and the hubby are being sued by a horse farm in Tennessee for back payment on boarding fees for a horse.

We don't own a horse. We have NEVER owned a horse.

We called the courthouse to get more info. If we do not settle or appear at the hearing, a judgment can be entered for the amount (a little over $18,000.00).

So it seems we will be possibly having to retain the services of a lawyer to prove that we don't own the horse in question. We are waiting to hear back from one.

I don't even know what to think at this point.

I think I need a vacation from reality for awhile...

Takin' A Break

2009-09-02T08:10:00.001-07:00

It's Wednesday.

Usually, I'd be hamming it up with a post about some hunky guy from a Sci Fi series or movie.

But I'm just not into it today.

It's been a particularly tiring week at the day job, and my brain is mush. I've been concentrating on writing whenever I have a spare moment, so my creativity is taxed, to say the least.

I really don't see how people juggle jobs and kids and writing and...whatever else on their plates. On days that I work, I have about four a half hours outside of the job to cram in my life. Four and a half hours. And this must include dinner, errands, showers, bills, writing, you name it.

I tried not sleeping much, and that just didn't work out. There's alot of physicality in my job most days, and being tired leads to me getting injured. Or being cranky, which doesn't bode well for my customer service skills.

Alas, sometimes I just need a break. Thankfully, I have vacation scheduled later this month. I plan on getting a re-boot and writing my tushie off!

Until then, I think I'll play it cool for awhile. Burn out is bad...

Sexy Guys of Sci Fi - Joe Flanigan

2009-08-26T07:40:00.000-07:00

Aahhhh...Wednesday. Time for another dose of hunky-sci fi goodness! I decided to stay in the world of Stargate this week, and am featuring Joe Flanigan, aka John Sheppard on Stargate Atlantis.

Born and raised in Claifornia, Flanigan later attended the University of Colorado, where he earned a history degree. He never expected to make acting a career, and studied it mainly to overcome his shyness. He pursued a writing career after graduation, and with prodding from friends, finally made the decision to go after an acting career.

All of which led joe to the character I adore him for most - Lt Colonel John Sheppard of Stargate Atlantis.

Stargate Atlantis follows the present-day adventures of John Sheppard and his military team from Earth that, along with two dozen other teams, venture to distant planets. They use an alien device known as a Stargate, which is housed in the city of Atlantis on the planet "Lantea". The city was built millions of years ago by one of the most advanced races of the Stargate universe: the Ancients. Five to ten million years ago, due to a plague in the Milky Way Galaxy, they were forced to flee to the Pegasus Galaxy, and there they seeded life on hundreds of worlds as they had done in the Milky Way. After encountering a powerful enemy known as the Wraith and going to war with them for more than one hundred years, the Ancients ultimately lost and were forced to submerge their city beneath Lantea's ocean, which, in the Stargate universe, is the source of the Greek myth of the Lost City of Atlantis.

Sheppard has an "ancient gene" in his physiology, which allows him to attempt exerting control over the various Ancient technology the team confronts while on Atlantis and other worlds. Sheppard's a no nonsense military man, with a troubled past, but deep down he has a big heart and cares about his team immensely, providing the view of the "average joe" (lol) next to the complicated science jargon of the genius members of the team, so that we may all understand and be entertained.

And the fact that he's smokin' hot doesn't hurt one bit either!

I mean, seriously, just one look from those sultry eyes and I'm a puddle at his feet.

Just one more reason why he's one Sexy Guy of Sci Fi!

Sexy Guys of Sci Fi - Michael Shanks

2009-08-19T07:52:00.000-07:00

Time for another dose of science fiction hunkiness! This week we celebrate actor Michael Shanks, aka Dr. Daniel Jackson on the television series Stargate SG-1.

Michael Garrett Shanks was born December 15, 1970, in Vancouver, British Columbia. He attended the University of British Columbia and graduated with a B.F.A. in Theatre in 1994.

Shanks played archaeologist Dr. Daniel Jackson in Stargate SG-1. The military, having discovered the Stargate, sought out Dr. Jackson because of his theories linking the ancient Egyptians to alien technology. A scientific view that has most of Daniel's peers treating him like a hack.

But when the US military shows him the Stargate, Daniel is the one who figures out how the machine is to be used. His theories are correct! Trouble is, he can't tell anyone, becaues it is now a matter of national security.

Thus begins Daniel's journey as a member of the SG-1 team, where through the years he visits countless planets, meets all sorts of alien life, and saves the day with his vast knowledge of ancient languages and cultures, coming to serve as the moral conscience of the team as a whole.

Dr. Jackson remains part of SG-1 until he ascends to a higher plane of existence at the end of season 5. Following his forceful de-ascension at the beginning of season 7, he rejoins the team for the remainder of the series. The last three seasons show his flirty yet antagonistic relationship with Vala Mal Doran (played by Claudia Black). Daniel also appears in both direct-to-DVD films and has cameos in seasons 1 and 5 of Stargate Atlantis. He is confirmed to appear in the pilot episode of the upcoming series Stargate Universe.

Now, I've always been a fan of the nerdy guy. Brains turn me on (among other things). But how can you go wrong when such a mind belongs to a hunk like this? Watching Michael portray a character that evolves so much over the course of the show was and is a complete pleasure. Daniel struggled every moment to reconcile his science with reality, his emotions with his logic, making him a perfect fit for for my Sexy Guys of Sci Fi!

Sexy Guys of Sci Fi - Ben Browder

2009-08-12T09:00:00.000-07:00

I'm back, baby! And I brought a Sexy Guy of Sci Fi with me! Ben Browder gives us a double shot of hunkiness as John Crichton on Farscape and Cameron Mitchell on Stargate SG-1!

Ben Browder was born in Memphis, Tennessee. He attended Myers Park High School in Charlotte, North Carolina, earned a BS in psychology at Furman University, and then went on to study drama at Central School of Speech and Drama in London, England.

I first recall seeing Ben in the Sci Fi series Farscape, and I was a complete goner!

Farscape featured a diverse and eclectic ensemble of characters who are all on the run from corrupt authorities called Peacekeepers. They live inside a giant space-dwelling creature named Moya, which served as their ship.

In the first episode, the fugitives are joined by the main character, John Crichton, a modern-day American astronaut who accidentally flew into the entrance of a wormhole near Earth. On the same day, another stranger is picked up by Moya: a stranded Peacekeeper named Aeryn Sun, who appears human.

Despite his best intentions, John does make a few major enemies; the primary of these is known as Scorpius. There are a few stand-alone plots, but the show centered on the unfolding events surrounding John's battle against Scorpius, John's special abilities with wormholes, and on another front, with his relationship (or lack thereof) with Aeryn Sun.

After Farscape ended, I was ecstatic to find out Ben was joining the cast of another of my favorite shows, Stargate SG-1!

Stargate SG-1 explored the missions of the Stargate teams as they traveled through wormholes created by an ancient "stargate" controlled by the military, located under the Cheyenne Mountain Complex in Colorado. In the first eight seasons, the mission of the SG teams was to explore the galaxy and search for alien technology and allies to defend Earth against the Goa'uld, a snake-like parasitic alien race that takes humans as unwilling hosts. SG-1 eventually learns that highly evolved but now impassive human-like beings, known as the Ancients, had originally built the Stargate network millions of years earlier, before they used their extraordinary powers to Ascend to a higher plane of existence. The fictional Ori, who belong to the same race as the Ancients but preach religious fundamentalism, assume the role of the main antagonists in seasons 9 and 10.

Ben joined the cast as a United States Air Force Lieutenant Colonel who is assigned as the new commanding officer of SG-1 at the beginning of season 9. He struggled to reunite its former members under his authority and commands SG-1 (with Lt. Col. Carter's assistance) until the end of season 10, later being promoted to Colonel.

Whether fighting aliens and his feelings for Aeryn in Farscape, or donning a military uniform and fighting the Goa'uld and Ori in Stargate SG-1, Ben's charm, bright blue eyes, and rockin' bod make him an obvious choice for my Sexy Guys of Sci Fi!

Just Chatting

2009-08-11T08:40:00.000-07:00

I really have to get ready for work, but I felt like sharing a bit. I went to Sapphire Blue Publishing's website to check out a new erotic release, and there was Second Chances, number 4 on the bestsellers list!

I did a little happy dance in my seat!

I've really been struggling with feasibly continuing to pursue writing, since I have so much stuff going on in my life. Now, I feel a little more validated.

And so, I need to write a Halloween short story for SBP, another short for ARE's charity free reads, and finish Burn With Me.

Oh, and I'd also like to write a short story for Samhain's Angels and Demons Anthology.

Think I can pull it off?

I guess we'll find out!

Fantasy Quest by Tina Gerow

2009-08-09T09:02:00.000-07:00

Even though I've been unfocused lately, I've managed to read some excellent books!

Fantasy Quest by Tina Gerow is one of them!

Astiria Petrey wants nothing more than to lay on a sandy beach reading a good book at the exclusive Fantasy resort. Pestered by dumb jocks in tight shorts, Astiria decides to play the hotel’s role-playing computer game - Fantasy Quest. Only the game is more than she could ever imagine!

As soon as Astiria creates her perfect man—an online Warrior named Lerik, she is sucked through a portal to the mythical Verrath to meet him. There, Astiria must do battle against a host of trials.

If she is unable to succeed, Astiria becomes property of Marsoon, the Goblin King.

Accompanied by a real live gargoyle named Max, and Lerik, the sexy warrior she created from her wildest fantasies, Astiria must discover herself in order to not only win the game, but make her way back home.

Only then can she realize that true love awaits, if only she believes…

20K Words

I LOVED this book! I know so many gamers, and have even dabbled some myself, so I could relate so well!

Astiria is strong, yet vulnerable at the same time, having a bad history with men that keeps her at arm's length, sheilding her heart. And yet, she finds the inner strength to take a chance with Lerik, even though it turns out quite unexpectedly...

The world that Tina Gerow creates is fantastic, yet believable. I was completely sucked in at the start, and I want a purple gargoyle of my very own!

When a story elicits a pure emotional response, I know it's good. I laughed out loud at the snarky exchange between Lerik and his assistant elf. I shouted at the computer screen during the fight scenes. I even shed a tear or two.

I highly reccomend this book for anyone who likes a sassy story with lots of action, humor, and emotion. There's alot packed into it, and you won't be disappointed!

Go to http://www.sapphirebluepublishing.com and pick this one up! In fact, I think I might just go and read it again...

The Best Laid Plans...

2009-08-09T08:47:00.000-07:00

I've been having issues focusing lately.

Granted, my hubby and I have been on a roller coaster dealing with health issues he has, as well as our jobs completely pushing us closer to the edge.

But for the most part, I seem to have difficulty maintaining focus and sticking to a plan in general. I mean, I like the idea of a plan. I will even go over the details in my head - sometimes even write them out - but when it comes down to putting it into action, my resolve wavers.

I will have everything laid out in my mind, exactly how it should play out, but when faced with the application - I crumble. What's up with that? My Mom is a planner. She writes almost everything down, then follows through with her plan like a well oiled machine. I just can't seem to make that transition.

And I've always been like that. I have half-finished stories, books, and projects everywhere. I know what needs to be done. I even know how it needs to be done. I just can't always make myself do it.

I don't think it's that I'm lazy. I think alot of it is that there's so many things crammed into this head of mine, that I have trouble picking out what to focus on and complete. I'm a dreamer, unfortunately. And dreamers seem to dwell on the abstract - of what it might be like to have something, instead of what is actually needed to obtain it.

I guess I need to get my head out of the clouds.

Or something like that.

Fun at San Diego Comic Con

2009-07-27T17:54:00.001-07:00

I really wanted to go to Comic Con this year.

I mean, REALLY.

Russell T. Davies, John Barrowman, and David Tennant (squee!) were there this year. I would have been beside myslef to be in the same room with them. And apparently, John was excited to be there as well.

I think I would have had the same reaction to kissing David, I just wouldn't have gotten back on my feet afterwards...

Sexy Guys of Sci Fi - Nathan Fillion

2009-07-22T07:28:00.000-07:00

"We are not gonna die. You know why? Because we are so...very...pretty. We are just too pretty for God to let us die. Huh? Look at that chiseled jaw!" - Malcolm Reynolds.

It's no secret that I find funny guys sexy, so it's no wonder that Nathan Fillion is one of my top Sexy Guys of Sci-Fi.

As Captain Malcolm Reynolds (aka Captain Tightpants) on the Tv Series Firefly and film Serenity, Nathan is full of charm, snark, and action.

Firefly is an American space western television series created by writer/director Joss Whedon. The series is set in the year 2517, after the arrival of humans in a new star system, and follows the adventures of the renegade crew of Serenity, a "Firefly-class" spaceship. The ensemble cast portrays the nine characters who live on Serenity.

The show explores the lives of people who fought on the losing side of a civil war who now make a living on the outskirts of the society, as part of the pioneer culture that exists on the fringes of their star system. In addition, it is a future where the only two surviving superpowers, the United States and China, fused to form the central federal government, called the Alliance, resulting in the fusion of the two cultures as well. According to Whedon's vision, "nothing will change in the future: technology will advance, but we will still have the same political, moral, and ethical problems as today."

As Captain Malcolm "Mal" Reynolds, Nathan Fillion is the owner of Serenity and former Independent sergeant in the pivotal Battle of Serenity Valley. Very little is known about the enigmatic Captain; the small bits of information he reveals about his past life betrays nothing of his character (a mystery of its own). Malcolm reveals that he grew up on a ranch, and was raised by his mother and the ranch hands. The only other scenes of his past life that are shown are about the Unification War, in which he and his crewmate Zoe fought for the Independent Army, or "Browncoats", as a platoon sergeant in the 57th Overlanders. He is an efficient leader and is skilled with guns as well as in hand-to-hand combat. Mal's character is full of contradictions. He is constantly fighting his demons, and his true self remains something of a mystery.

Though the core of the show deals with war, survival, past demons, death, etc, it always remained infused with the amazing humor that permeates Joss Whedon's writing, made even better by the smartass way Nathan can deliver the dialogue. Because in Mal's own words, "Why yes, he is made of awesome!"

Sexy Guys of Sci/Fi - Colin Ferguson

2009-07-15T08:31:00.001-07:00

The television show Eureka takes place in a high tech community of the same name, located somewhere in the Pacific Northwest (the true location is a secret, of course) and inhabited entirely by brilliant scientists working on new scientific advancements for the United States government. As would be expected, these projects quite frequently go disastrously awry, endangering lives, the town, and even sometimes the fabric of reality itself.

U.S. Marshal Jack Carter stumbles upon Eureka while transporting a fugitive prisoner — his own rebellious teenage daughter Zoe — back to her mother's home in Los Angeles. When a faulty experiment cripples the sheriff of Eureka, Carter finds himself quickly chosen to fill the vacancy. Despite not being a genius like most members of the town, Jack Carter's ability to connect to others, simplistic ideas, and steadfast dedication to his work repeatedly saves Eureka, and indeed the entire world, from one would-be disaster after another.

Colin Ferguson plays the role of Sheriff Jack Carter. He's the average joe smack dab in the middle of a town of geniuses, and is consistently overwhelmed by the wonders he sees every day in the town he has been charged to protect.

In this town where children learn (and understand) physics in grade school, men argue about the relevance of time travel instead of football teams, and surprises lurk around every corner waiting to cause havoc - Jack Carter keeps a level head and often his simpler thinking is what ends up saving the day.

He's also a single dad, and loves his daughter more than anything in the world. In fact, she is the main reason he decides to stay in Eureka, so that he can provide her with the greatest opportunities the world has to offer. He's risked his life more than once to protect her. What's sexier than a man willing to do that for his family?

Plus, there's just something sexy about a well-built man in a uniform...

Well, maybe when he's OUT of uniform...

Either way, Colin Ferguson is definitely one Sexy Guy of Sci/Fi!

Sexy Guys of Sci/Fi - John Barrowman

2009-07-08T09:48:00.000-07:00

Ok, Ok. I know I said I was going to do this monthly, but now I'm considering weekly. A girl has the right to change her mind, right? Besides, there's just too many sexy hunks in the sci/fi genre. Blame the media!

Today's Sexy Guy of Sci/Fi is John Barrowman, who plays Captain Jack Harkness in the BBC series Torchwood. John is mainly known for his starring roles on the West End stage, but has also served on the judges panel for shows like Any Dream Will Do and How Do You Solve A Problem Like Maria? He sings, he acts, he dances. He's dreamy and yummy, and lives in the UK with his partner, Scott. (damn!)

A former Time agent, we first meet Captain Jack in an episode of Doctor Who, where he runs into the Ninth Doctor and his companion, Rose Tyler. Jack is basicallly scavenging the universe for tech and selling to the highest bidder. A life he is enjoying to the max, until The Doctor and Rose show him what it means to make a difference and save lives.

Jack decides to travel with the pair and ends up facing one of The Doctor's greatest foes - The Daleks. Jack gives his life in the fight, but Rose uses the power of the Time Vortex and inadvertently brings him back to life. But something goes wrong. Because Jack finds himself not only alive again, but discovers that he comes back EVERY time he is killed. Poor Jack really tests this discovery, and has been shot, stabbed, strangled, electrocuted, buried alive - you get the picture.

He chases after The Doctor and Rose and ends up stranded in the past, forced to live his many lifetimes in the hopes of finding why he is the way he is.

Enter Torchwood, an organization established by Queen Victoria to aid in defending Great Britain against the alien threat in the universe. Public enemy number one is declared as The Doctor himself, who even though he's saved the earth more times than anyone can count, is seen as a big chunk of the problem. Jack grudgingly becomes involved in the group, mostly because it gives him access to the technology and information he thinks will help him in his own pursuits. He ends up in charge of Torchwood Cardiff, which happens to be on a time rift, therefore attracting all sorts of alien life and alien problems.

The Torchwood base is underground, filled with vaults of confiscated technology, dangerous aliens in cryo chambers, high tech computer gadgetry, and everything else needed to keep the world safe.

Jack is an excellent leader, but he does let his emotions get in the way at times. He loves his team. Some of them, a little more than others.

But that's ok, because Jack doesn't discriminate when it comes to relationships or sex. Men, women, aliens - Omnisexual Jack turns up his magnetism and uses it to his fullest, which makes him sizzle no matter who he's flirting with!

And yet, because he can't die, Jack posesses this deep rooted sadness, because he has to watch as everyone he cares about grows old and dies. And yet - Jack still throws caution to the wind and sprints into action, a wink and a smile at the ready for whatever each adventure brings his way.

John Barrowman plays Captain Jack with such heart, charisma, and boldness - I truly believe no one else could do it. That smile and those baby blues nearly do me in at times.

And so I say "All Hail Captain Jack!"

He can come to my rescue, anytime!

Sexy Guys of Sci/Fi - David Tennant

2009-07-01T10:08:00.001-07:00

I'm usually not one to theme-blog. But I noticed that alot of my fellow authors seem to have luck with a blogging hook. Plus - it keeps you blogging steadily.

And so, since I watch alot of science fiction, and am currently working on a sci fi story as well, I've decided to dedicate a monthly blog to the Sexy Guys of Sci/Fi. (any suggestions for future blogs will be greatly appreciated and considered.)

And who will be my pick for the month of July?

Why, my best and favorite sci fi star of the moment - David Tennant. (I know - big shocker, here)

David plays The Doctor in the BBC series Doctor Who. He's had the role since 2005, and skyrocketed the show back into popularity with his portrayal. A classically trained actor, David was a childhood fan of the series and jumped at the chance to become a part of TV history.

Tenth in the line of a talented group of actors to play the part, David brings warmth, hilarity, and heart to the part of The Doctor, creating a character appealing to children and adults both.

For the first time in the series, David brought sexual tension to the mix between the Doctor and his various female companions, but never lost the essence of what The Doctor is about - taking life by the horns and becoming a better person for helping others.

The Doctor fights evil because he can, not because he craves glory or recognition. And he fights with brain power and science, teaching us to think before we do something destructive. He is enthralled with humanity, yet he is ultimately alone. The last of the time lords, The Doctor spans the universe, a lonely angel that burns in eternity.

David's doctor has been the most popular to date, winning various awards for his portrayal. Unfortunately, 2009 is his last year in the part, and he will pass the torch on to another actor that will carry the Doctor Who legacy into the future.

But David will always be my Doctor.

And the hero of my debut novel, Second Chances, bears quite the resemblance to this handsome Scot, with his dark hair, brown eyes, and kissable lips.

Go figure.

Death's Daughter by Amber Benson

2009-06-24T08:18:00.001-07:00

It's been awhile since I posted a book review, but then again, I haven't been reading like I usually do. But after finishing this book, I just had to let everyone know how fabulous it was!

For those of you that don't know, Amber Benson is a talented actress/writer/filmmaker. She is probably best known for her portrayal of Tara Maclay on Buffy The Vampire Slayer, but has written and made some great Indie films as well. She also co-wrote the Ghosts of Albion series with Christopher Golden. As far as I know, Death's Daughter is her first solo novel.

I found this book in the paranormal romance category at the store, but I feel it crosses alot of genres. It could be considered fantasy or chick lit as well. It's written in first person, which makes it more fun in my opinion.

For the last few years, Calliope Reaper-Jones has been living under a self-imposed Forgetting Charm, because she didn't want any part of the family business. What she did want was a glamorous career in New York City and the opportunity for a normal, mortal life. But then her father's Assistant, a faun named Jarvis, shows up and cancels out the Forgetting Charm to let Calliope know that her father and sister have been kidnapped.

Now Calliope is expected to find her father, and fill in for him in his absence at Death Inc. - as The Grim Reaper. But in order to save her family's name and become the temporary personification of Death, she has to fulfill three tasks set forth by the Company Board to acquire three objects of power. And the quest to save her family, the business, and her life - turns out to be an adventure to remember!

Let me just say that this book hit the ground running and didn't stop for one second! Calliope's normal life gets turned completely upside down when she finds out her father and sister have been kidnapped, and she's none to pleased about it!

Jarvis is a great contrast to her flighty, self-involved inner monologues. The two spar alot, but you can tell that they genuiniely care about each other despite the verbal warcraft.

There were so many great things in this book! Death as a corporate entity itself was funny, and the fact that other Gods and Goddesses served on the Company Board was cool. Wodin, Persephone, and Kali (the Hindu Goddess of Destruction) make appearances. Kali in particualr is essential to the story, being sarcastic and snotty to Calliope while helping her out at the same time.

One of the "objects of power" Calliope must acquire is one of Cerberus's pups. As you can guess, she must go to Hell in order to get the pup. In fact, Calliope spends quite a bit of time in various sections of Hell, another way this book was interesting and funny. She meets the Devil himself, as well as his protege, Daniel. Daniel wants to be the Grim Reaper, so the tension between the two of them is tight. Calliope seesaws between wanting to kiss him senseless to wanting to punch him in the gut. Actually, she ends up doing both (among other things).

There was never a dull moment in this book. So many great characters to make the story come alive for me - I had a hard time putting it down. Gods, Goddesses, Hellhounds, Demons - all either trying to help or hinder Calliope in her quests. She crosses planes of existence, travels through memories, gets sucked through wormholes, and explores the many sections of Hell in this book. All while being exceptionally funny and sarcastic. I laughed out loud more than once at the quips in the dialogue or the inner monologues.

All in all, one of the absolute best books I've read in awhile. Anyone who loves fantasy, humor, wit, and the paranormal should pick it up. You won't be sorry!

FIVE STARS!

Blogging Blues

2009-06-10T12:07:00.000-07:00

So, here it is, Wednesday again. My day to blog - to be witty, relevant, and entertaining.

And here I sit, staring at the computer screen - waiting for inspiration to strike.

No lightning. No flash of brilliance. No lightbulbs appearing over my head.

Just empty space, glaring back at me, daring me to come up with an idea.

My life tends to go through cycles regarding my creativity. Sometimes I read relentlessly, then I will crochet or cross-stitch until my hands cramp. Or I have even been known to write until my fingers go numb. When I was writing Second Chances, the story flowed out of me in a steady stream, and I wrote practically every day until it was finished. It was like it was meant to be written.

But now, I struggle to give words life, and instead find myself wandering off to occupy my mind elsewhere. It's like I can't find that zone again - that place where the story that's in your head finds it's way to your fingertips like magic, creating the world on the page that you see in your mind for everyone else to see. I'm getting little spurts of that place, but it fizzles and dies before any real progress is made.

I'm beginning to feel that I might not find that place again, and I'm troubled by that prospect.

Granted, I do have a full-time job that deals me alot of stress, and bills to pay, errands to run, etc. But most writers do. And I can't help but feel that I'm just making lame excuses for being unproductive. And I really don't want to be lame.

But I'm struggling as a writer these days. I need to rediscover that joy that made me write Second Chances with such zeal and determination.

Trouble is, I really don't know how to do that.

The Sun Will Come Out...TODAY!

2009-06-05T17:14:00.000-07:00

I've been as gray as the rain-laden clouds in the sky lately, so I didn't expect today to be any different. I figured the sun had decided to take an indefinite leave of absence.

But today, I woke up to...sunshine! YES! No rain - no gray skies - just sunshine, wind, and the day off from work!

So, my hubby and I decided on a road trip to Florence, KY. It's not a long drive, a little over an hour. He grabbed a few of my favorite cds, and we rolled down the windows, cranked up the music, and took off!

We had lunch, hit the mall, and of course - a book store.

I got a talking Doug The Dog from The Disney Store (from the new movie, Up) to add to my plush collection. (see my collections album in my photos on Myspace to see what I'm talking about) I picked up the next Broken Heart Book as well. I swear, books are like crack to me. I have no resistance. I also bought a Sims video game for my DS, and a Twilight t-shirt. You know, frivolous crap you never really set out to buy, but decide that you can't live without?

A fun, relaxing, bright, sunny, wonderful, happy day.

Did I mention it was sunny? (LOL)

Hope you guys had a great day too!

Enough, Already!

2009-06-03T11:50:00.001-07:00

I'm one of those people that is very sensitive to the weather. Bright, beautiful days cheer me up. Gray, colorless days get me down. This winter and spring have been particularly blah in my neck of the woods. I have been waiting expectantly for the hot, sunny days of summer.

But what do I get? Hazy, humid days interspersed with downpours. Driving home from work last night, in 30 minutes I drove through dark skies, sprinkles, downpours, lightning shows, and thunder claps.

And today - more of the same. The skies lighten up for a bit, then grow almost black and release a torrent of water to gray out the day.

So my mood is as gray as the sky outside. And the sinus headache from the changing barometer doesn't help. And when I'm gray and blah - I either refrain from turning on my computer alltogether, or end up staring at it, thinking horrible thoughts of destruction.

What I manage to write reflects my mood, and ends up being blah and boring.

Summer, sun, please come and shed some light on my mood and my words!

I am truly sick of the rain.

It's My Birthday and I'll Blog if I Want To!

2009-05-30T15:49:00.000-07:00

So today, I turned 35. Yeah, that's right. I'll admit to my real age. Most people are shocked to find out my age, thinking I'm younger (yay), but I've lived those years, so I might as well own them!

It's been a really nice birthday, too. I slept in late - one of my favorite things to do, because sleep for me can be fleeting. I got all girly and put on a dress with sexy red pumps - hubby approved. Then we set off to see what we could get into...

We ended up seeing the new Disney/Pixar movie Up. Having seen mostly action/adventure movies lately, I was in the mood for something different. I wasn't prepared for the emotional journey this little film took me on! It was sad, touching, funny, exciting - I loved it! I spent the first 20 minutes bawling my eyes out. It was worth it, and I highly recommend you see it!

Then we went to Ruby Tuesday's and had a great steak dinner. It was a bit of a splurge, but we had a coupon! (lol!)

After my belly was full, the hubby took me to one of my favorite places - Half Price Books! This place is like a candy store to me, and I bought a load of stuff - 3 Katie Macallister books, a Cheyenne McCray novel , a Mary-Janice Davidson anthology, and a book by Amber Benson. The good old TBR pile just grew immensely!

(I also got a build your own TARDIS kit with David Tennant on the front. Excuse me while I squee like the fangirl I am!)

And now, I'm home, in front of the laptop, sharing my day with all my online friends! All the birthday wishes just make me smile so much!

I plan on curling up with the hubby this evening and watching the Primeval finale. My sister is also supposed to call (she's in Texas). Then perhaps the hubby will help me with a little novel "research". (hint, hint. nudge, nudge. know what I mean?)

So, here's to me, my friends, my family, and the hope of more great years to come!

Happy Birthday to Me!

Confessions of a TV-a-holic

2009-05-27T08:19:00.000-07:00

I didn't know what I was going to write about today, but then I read Buffy's blog. So, I decided to give the perspective at the other end of the spectrum. Because my name is Christle, and I am a TV-aholic.

I don't know why it is so easy for me to get sucked into television shows. In the back of my mind, I know there's better things I could be doing, but there I sit, staring eagerly at the screen anyway.

There are too many series shows that I watch or TIVO to watch. Heroes, CSI Miami, Castle, Fringe, CSI New York, CSI, Dollhouse, True Blood, Bones, House. And then there's British shows like Primeval, Ashes to Ashes, Torchwood, and Doctor Who. It's a compulsion at times, for the thought of missing an episode of a show makes me cranky.

And that doesn't even count the "reality" shows that suck me in entirely too often.

But it's not like I spend every free moment in front of the telly. I also read alot - specifically on my lunch breaks at work. I write, I blog, I play video games on my Nintendo DS. But if I stopped and added up the hours I dedicate to television shows, I'd more than likely be apalled.

So I'm not even going to do that.

Instead, I will take a deep breath and relax in the knowledge that the summer hiatus is on, and I won't feel so compelled to waste time in front of the TV screen.

Until the fall, that is.

Idol Time

2009-05-20T12:49:00.001-07:00

Once again, America is on the verge of electing their next great icon. A figure that will forever be a part of history itself.

Tonight, we crown this year's American Idol.

I've been a fan of the show since it began. I drive my husband crazy with my obsession with the show - the talent, the train wrecks, the self-deluded. Every year I make the announcement that I probably won't watch, and then I get entirely sucked in, like I've been brain washed or something.

Perhaps I have.

Regardless, I do believe that the show has found some great talent over the years, and not just through the "winners". More than a few Idol contestants grace my music shelves - David Cook, Clay Aiken, Elliot Yamin, Blake Lewis, Taylor Hicks, Daughtry. And even though I don't particularly enjoy country music, I even kind of like Carrie Underwood and Kellie Pickler.

Obviously, I HAVE been brainwashed.

It's down to the final two, and all of America will be on the edge of their seats as the new Idol is announced tonight. Will it be Adam? Or will it be Kris? I actually enjoy both guys for different reasons, and am very excited to see who America selects. Either way, I'm sure I'll end up with both of their cds on my shelf next year.

Adam is so dramatic, and his voice unlike anyone else I've ever heard. Kris has a cool, Jason Mraz vibe to me. I'd listen to him to chill out and relax. I think they both did an awesome job with their performances, despite that god-awful song that Kara co-wrote and the producers made the guys sing.

After tonight, my Tuesdays and Wednesdays will feel empty. Kind of like those few days after Christmas. All the excitement and buildup, then it's over in a snap.

Oh well, then I'll just have to start the countdown until January next year...

So America, who is YOUR Idol?

Brain Block

2009-05-13T08:48:00.001-07:00

As you can see, it's my day to blog. Trouble is, I'm finding it increasingly difficult to come up with anything interesting to say. Usually, inspiration will hit me Tuesday night when I'm trying to sleep.

Not this week.

I'm just too exhausted. My day job has been very busy. (I'm an art framer, btw.) The Department Manager was on vacation last week, so alot of stuff fell to me to take care of. I've also been training someone new because one of our framers left. And our corporate offices just handed down a new training protcol last month that we have to follow.

My brain's a mess, buzzing with price guides, color theory, order deadlines - etc. There's little room left for blogging inspiration, let alone writing inspiration. I'm one of those writers that does not work well when tired or pressed for time.

And so, I sit here and stare at the screen of my laptop, which mocks me with its emptiness. Forcing the issue doesn't help either. The stuff that comes out when I make myself write under duress is pretty much crap.

What to do? I think I'll zone out for a few. Maybe read a book. Listen to music. Refresh and reset the noggin.

Then I'll try again later.

More relaxed me = better writing.

Have a good one!

Vamp It Up

2009-05-06T09:05:00.000-07:00

I am slightly obsessed with vampires.

When I say slightly, I actually mean completely.

When I say completely, I actually mean eternally.

It started when I was in high school. I was sort of a shy loner myself, so I was drawn to the lonely tortured souls that live in darkness. And brooding. Vamps got to have a major brood on. I devoured books with vampires in them, and have aquired quite the collection over the years. And movies and television - I will always give at least one go of something if there's a vampire involved.

Can you say - obsessed?

Anyway, I thought I'd share some of my fave vamps from over the years. It's time to vamp it up, baby!

Angel. A vampire with a soul. He can never be with the woman he truly loves, for it will end the gypsy curse and make him the evil Angelis. Could he be more tortured and sexy?

Aahhh...Spike. The bad boy you just can't help but like - even if he's a cold blooded killer. But wait...he, too, was redeemed. And there's always that punk rocker edge to him...

Mick St. John from Moonlight. The woman he loved made him a vamp against his will - dooming his soul. He strove to live amongst humans in peace and solitude...but then, he fell in love with one...

Bill Compton from True Blood. Nostalgic charm with vampire charisma make Bill a very interesting vampire. His quiet intensity is mesmerizing. And though he works to live a quiet life in harmony with humans - he will do whatever it takes to protect what or who he loves - even kill.

What can you say about Edward Cullen? He was made a vampire to save his life, and has waited for true love patiently. So what if he constantly thinks about draining her of her blood when he meets her? He chooses not to, just like he chooses to only drink animal blood to survive.

These are just a few of my favorite vamps - the tip of the fang, you could say. Each one sexy, brooding, intense, and likeable - with just a dash of danger. What's not exciting about a hunk that has the power to rip your throat out?

Hey. A girl's gotta have a hobby...

Life's Lessons

2009-04-29T13:42:00.001-07:00

I've had a bad case of the blahs recently.

There's stress at my day job, frustration with the economy, issues with money. I'm kind of a tired mess.

But this won't be a "poor me" blog. It's a kick in the butt to myself. (Is that even possible?)

When I get to feeling sorry for myself, I remember the best and brightest person in my life - my Grandmother Gertrude.

Gram was the strongest, most giving person I have ever known. She was widowed at a young age and raised five children on her own cleaning houses. The "down on your hands and knees" kind of cleaning. She taught me that you always had to work hard for what you wanted, and that made you appreciate it even more.

She had a temper and was very particular about certain things, which my Mother says I inherited. But Gram loved her family, and would do anything at all without hesitation to help us. I literally saw her give up all that she had on more than one occasion, because she thought someone else needed it more than she did. And she never expected anything in return. That kind of unconditional love spoke volumes about her.

She helped raise me as a child, then spoiled me when Mom moved us away. We would have slumber parties with soap operas and stay up all night reading romance novels in bed. We would talk for hours and laugh until tears flowed down our cheeks. You never needed much to have a good time with Gram. She found joy in the simplest things.

When I grew up, she was still always there with loads of support. Whenever I needed her, she would make sure to be there, arms wide open, without question. She made me feel safe, loved, and like I could do anything. There was never an ounce of disappointment in her eyes.

Gram died from cancer April 15, 2005. She fought her battle bravely, just like she did everything. And though she's no longer with me in this world, I feel her presence when I most need it. (which happens to be often)

I still miss her fiercely, but through her eyes I could always see the person I wanted to be. What she taught me remains in my heart forever and spurs me onward.

She would have been so excited and proud to see my first novel published.

And then she would have said "now buckle down and do it again!"

...I'm off to write...

My Love of Language for the Language of Love

2009-04-22T12:59:00.000-07:00

I think the question that writers get asked most often is "What made you want to become a writer?"

For most, the answer usually has to do alot with having characters and stories in their head that beg to be let out.

I get that.

But for me, the true base reason I am a writer is that I have a love of language.

Words are truly magical to me. Somehow, they give you the capacity to take what you are feeling and thinking, and explain it in a way as to let someone else experience something.

Words let writers evoke emotions, create new worlds and new people, and take the reader on a journey - a journey that without words, would be impossible.

And it's not just the words themselves. The choice of words plays a part, too. Our society has given certain words so much power that they have become taboo - seen as vulgar or inappropriate.

That mystifies me. How can a word be "bad" or "good"? And who decides this? Words are neutral. The only meaning they have are what we choose to give them. Words are a means of expression, of communication. And I believe that all words deserve the opportunity to be used. To not do so is a waste of what seperates us from the animal kingdom.

And I think the most overused, yet most misunderstood word is love. As a writer of romance, the language of love plays a very important part in my writing. We have limitless words to describe what love is, but do any of them truly evoke that emotion? It is a challenge all romance writers face, yet one we take on willingly each time we pick up a pencil, or turn on a computer.

And so my love of words keeps me treading on this path of a writer, prodding me onward to find new and exciting ways to use words to my advantage.

Because without words - all words - what would a writer be?

Vacation Time!

2009-04-15T07:12:00.000-07:00

I'm on vacation this week.

No, I'm not going on some trip to a tropical climate, or even straying very far from my own house.

Money is tight, and we can't afford to do things like that.

But that doesn't mean I can't have a good time while staying as far away as possible from my day job! In fact, this week is kind of a little peek into what my life would be like if I was able to write full time. I can plan my day arround what activities I like and when, then throw some writing time in wherever I can!

And so, I will read, relax, write, go out to dinner, and spend alot of quality time with the love of my life. Even after 17 years together, we still like to spend time together.

And hopefully, this week will provide me with the necessary skills to make it through to the next vacation!

It's not glamorous, or mysterious, but it's my idea of a good time!

What about you?

Thankful For...What?

2009-04-08T14:30:00.001-07:00

I've been a lazy blogger lately.

My brain hasn't been able to process much beyond my day job and life's errands. I think alot of it has to do with how the world has put everyone on an emotional roller coaster as of late.

The economy is so unpredictable, people are forever on edge, waiting for the perverbial other shoe to drop. In one instant, lives are altered by the decisions that corporate mongers make - downsizing, paycuts, hiring freezes. And some corporations are even instituting stricter rules and regualtions, or piling on more work to employees, because they know that options for them are limited.

You never know what might happen next. Big decisions carry even more weight than before, because you never know if you'll have a job from one day to the next. Statistics even say that most American families are only three paychecks away from bankruptcy.

Yet, through it all, I continually here the plattitude "well, you should be thankful you at least have a job for the moment."

Why?

Have we really come to the point that we have to be thankful for the opportunity to be miserable? They always say that it could be worse. But dammit, I say that it could always be better!

These large companies are heading for a wakeup call, and it won't be pretty. American workers are growing tired of rising duties and expectations, with little praise or compensation for it. And they will find it exceptionally hard to market and sell their products without dedicated workers down the chain.

What will the CEOs manage for their millions, then?

Just some pessimistic meanderings.

Apparently, I'm growing jaded as I age...

Join Me on Blog Talk Radio!

2009-03-25T09:40:00.000-07:00

Lesa Trapp of The Odd Mind Magazine is going to have me on her Blog Talk Radio Show!

The show is March 26th, at 9pm Eastern.

We'll talk about writing, books, guys...whatever comes up!

It's sure to be a blast, so stop by!

You can call in with your own questions and comments at 347-945-7025 or you can log into the chat room at www.blogtalkradio.com/theoddmind

Hope to see (or hear) you there!

Learning To Let Go...

2009-03-11T15:21:00.000-07:00

I visited with my sister today. She stopped by on her way to San Antonio, Texas, where she is moving to be closer to her boyfriend. This might not seem like a big deal to most people, but it is for me.

You see, she's my baby sister - ten years younger than me. I also have a brother that's fourteen years younger than me. I helped raise them, and spent alot of my adolescence changing diapers, giving baths, reading stories, making meals, and babysitting.

My relationship with my siblings has always been more parental than big sister. So even though I do not have children of my own, I consider them my kids.

It is because of that bond that I've always been very protective of them. Even when I moved out and started a life of my own, I always came back for holidays, sent gifts, and made sure I made it home to celebrate their birthdays.

So when my sister told me she was moving to Texas, I kind of freaked out. All that went through my head was a million reasons why it was a bad idea. Our family has never really been more than two or three hours apart. EVER.

But then I got to thinking. She's 24. I moved away to college when I was 18. I got married and moved again when I was 22. No one tried to talk me out of any part of it. And I'm glad - because I learned to depend on myself and create my own life.

Yet here I was, working to convince my sister to stay put - to take the "safe" route, when she obviously wasn't happy, or she wouldn't be thinking of leaving in the first place.

And then it hit me. All that talk that parents spout about learning to let go of their kids, and how it hurts to see them stand on their two feet, even though that's what you raise them to do their whole lives, suddenly made sense.

I was being selfish. She was ready to start a life of her own - and I had to let her, no matter how much it hurt.

So when she called to tell me she was stopping by on her way through, I told her to disregard everything I'd said earlier. If this was what she wanted, then she should go for it and make the most wonderful life she could. I would always be here for her if she needed me.

She sounded the happiest I've ever heard her, and that happiness continued to when I got to see her today.

They say letting go of the one you love is one of the truest expressions of love there is.

And when she hugged me goodbye on my doorstep, a little piece of my heart went with her as I let her go.

Love never ceases to teach me things as I get older.

Interview and Contest!

2009-03-04T10:57:00.000-08:00

Through this writing journey, I've been lucky to meet some very talented people who also happen to be extremely gracious! One of those people is author Leslie Ann Dennis. Leslie agreed to chat with me about her writing, and even give away a PDF copy of her awesome book, Reason To Believe, so enjoy!

What made you want to be an author?

My answer is so NOT unique to authors. I read so much as a kid and throughout my adult life. It was the coolest escape EVER. I wanted to create the sort of places readers like myself would want to go and I also wanted to create characters that readers wanted to be like or be around. It's such a thrill to have readers nowadays tell me that's what I've managed to do with my stories. YAY!

How long did it take to get your first novel published?

That's a toughie. I have been through the slush pile with one version before. They asked me to cut 10,000 words and resend. I resent and the editor had left and the new editor passed on my sub w/all the new changes. I shelved the story. But as in many cases with writers, you can hide the book under your bed and hopes it stays quiet -- but it never does. So I pulled it back out in 2007 and rewrote it with a spicier slant. It sold in 3 months after I sent it in to the publisher.

Tell us about Reason To Believe.

Ahhh.. the book of my heart. It's got characters who I hope we can all identify with. Lane is strong-willed (a little hard-headed) but she's got a good heart and she loves her only living relative (her grandfather) enough to chase down a landowner in Scotland in order to save a tree that was planted in her grandfather's name 75 years ago. And it you love Scotsmen (and let me just say I adore them!), then I hope you'll fall in love with
Conlan MacGregor in this story. He's perfect in my opinion. And I was a wee bit jealous he didn't really exist in real life. At one point tho, as I was writing about him, someone asked if I'd ever been to Scotland, and I ALMOST said, "No, but my friend Conlan lives
there." Thank Goodness I caught myself before I slipped up and let everyone know how crazy we writers can be. In my heart, Conlan will ALWAYS be real.

Do I sense a weakness for Scottish men?

Oh Lord, yes. From the tartan to the accent, I'm in love with them all. :)

What do you do when you aren't writing?

I'm thinking of plots and characters that I can write about. I wish I was more disciplined and could actually write ALL the time when I have a second free, but I'll be honest and tell you I'm addicted to lots of television shows (which I can't watch all the time either, but I'm a heavy TiVo'er) and I also play MMORPGs (Online games like World of Warcraft, Dark Age of Camelot, etc). If I have "free" time... it's usually doing one of the above.

I want to now about your alter ego, Paisley.

... Ooooh Paisley Scott? She's something else, all right. She writes the steamier stuff (and
yes, there is actually a level of steam hotter than what Leslie wrote in Reason to Believe!). She has 3 novellas out with The Wild Rose Press. If you'd like to learn more about Paisley, you're welcome to drop in on her site: www.PaisleyScott.com (although, it's in need of an update). I'm sure she's got a cabana boy that'll help her out with that.

What are you working on now?

Currently, I'm hard at work on a Sci-Fi Futuristic. I've never written one before, but I'm a sci-fi nut. I love books and movies that deal with it -- but don't smack me upside the head with all the different terminology. I inject a lot of humor into my writing, so with this one, you can expect more... The Jetsons meet I, Robot. Something like that.

Anything else you'd like to share with your readers?

I'm a sucker for email. I LOVE to hear what folks think about my stories. I'm also a major animal lover, so feel free to talk about your fur-babies with me. LOL! Oh, and drop by my website too! It's got a guestbook and everything (hint... am I being too obvious here? LOL). www.LeslieAnnDennis.com

Lovely talking with you, Christle! Thanks for taking time to interview me. It's been fun!

*HUGS*
Leslie (and Paisley too)

Want to win a PDF copy of Reason To Beleive for yourself? It's easy! Just go to the forums page on my website ( www.christlegray.com )and find the Contest room. Tell us about something you were given a reason to believe in - and feel free to be creative! Each post will grant you one entry into the contest, and you can enter up to three times. I'll pick a winner randomly March 25th.

Good Luck, and Happy Reading!

Being Human

2009-02-18T11:48:00.000-08:00

So, there's this new British TV show called "Being Human" that I have been watching. It's about a vampire and a werewolf that are best friends, so they get a place together which just happens to be haunted by a female ghost. The show is funny and entertaining, yet has that dark side to it that paranormal shows need. I like it quite alot.

And it got me thinking about a few things. Isn't it funny that the paranormal holds so much interest for us? Magic and mythical creatures are popular in books especially. As mortals, all we want is to experience that otherworldly power, to be exceptional in some way.

And yet, the central theme in the majority of these stories is that all those creatures want is to be normal - to "be human." The vampire wants to walk in the day. The werewolf wants to not be at the mercy of the moon. The ghost wants to have substance or move on.

Fundamentally, what it comes down to is that everyone always desires what they don't have.

Does that mean that when we get what we want, we no longer want it?

I don't know.

I'll ask the next vampire I meet and get back to you...

Website is Up and Running!

2009-02-06T17:26:00.000-08:00

WOOHOO!

I finally have a website!

(I know, I know, took me long enough, huh?)

There's forums, and links, and news, and contests - LOTS of fun stuff!

Stop by and let me know what you think!

www.christlegray.com

My Icy Abode

2009-01-28T07:38:00.000-08:00

And so, today marks day two of the great ice storm of 2009. Another day pretty much trapped in my house. That's ok, because who would want to go out in this?

Back in 2003, we had another ice storm, but were highly unprepared for it. Back then, people were without power for days, even weeks. At least this time the power outages are fewer, though there are still people who have had to go to shelters.

There's a willow tree across the street that is looking pretty rough.

In 2003, it practically split down the middle from the weight of the ice. It made a horrible sound, like a house caving in. I hope it survives this time.

The icicles that are hanging off of my house and garage look deadly.

My husband is convinced that icicles are the perfect murder weapon. Deadly sharp, but then they melt away, leaving no evidence.

Disturbing, but true.

So, I will sit and marvel at the wonders of the weather. It's pretty now, but when it starts to melt it will become a slushy, brown mess.

What's happening in your neck of the woods?

Gift Basket Winner!

2008-12-19T17:03:00.000-08:00

It's time to pick a winner for the Bit of Britain gift basket!

I have everyone's name written down on paper and put into a bowl for each comment left.

(shake, shake...rustle, rustle)

In goes the hand...who will it be?

The winner is...

Jo Anne!

Thanks to everyone who entered!

I truly enjoyed hearing about everyone's holiday traditions!

And don't forget to enter the Sapphire Blue Holiday Hunk Hunt that's still going on!

Visit http://www.eroticromancewriters.com/bombshells/ for details!

Congrats to Jo Anne, and thanks again to everyone who entered!

Happy Holidays!

Wild Cowboy Domination by Brit Blaise

2008-12-16T08:07:00.000-08:00

Cowboy Ray Wilde has a secret. To the public, he’s a bull rider who can get the most worn-out Brahma to buck like a prize-winning bull and in private, when the moon is high over the Arizona desert; he gets more than a little hairy.

Rachel Benson is searching for her missing sister, and she suspects one of two men are involved in her sister’s disappearance, but which one? Is it the doctor or a shape-shifting bull rider who’s into bondage?

26K Words

www.sapphirebluepublishing.com

This was my first Brit Blaise book, and I'm sure it won't be my last! I was truly impressed by Brit's story. The love scenes were hot, but still tugged at my heart strings. The action never stopped, and every twist and turn kept me captivated until the very end. Every character seemed to have a secret, whether they were aware of it or not, as well as ulterior motives. A truly well-crafted story, and one that I recommend to anyone who loves their romance to have a little bite to it.

Visit Brit on the web at www.britblaise.com or on her Myspace page at www.myspace.com/britblaise

Sugar Shack by Paisley Scott

2008-12-12T18:16:00.001-08:00

Available NOW from THE WILDER ROSE PRESS
Blurb
Ten years ago, Catherine Bennett said good-bye to her fiancé, Luke MacKenzie, and his maple farm in Vermont. She wanted to be somebody. She wanted to break out of a small town existence and live the city life. But the higher she flew, the less satisfied she was, in love and life. She had left her heart behind. But she'd never forgotten the sizzling sex with blond-haired, muscular Luke.
Now, when her job takes her back home to Vermont, old feelings flame to life. But is Luke still interested? Is he married? And can he ever forgive her for leaving him so long ago? Only one thing's for sure; there's still an attraction. And their reconciliation will burn hotter than the fireworks that light up the New Years Eve sky!

I have been perusing many e-books lately, and am pleased as punch to have stumbled across this author. Not only are her settings vivid and real, the characters really spring to life on the page as they deal with all the emotional baggage from their entwined past. The juxtaposition of the cold Vermont snowstorm against the sizzling love scenes made them that much hotter!

(And I don't think I'll ever be able to think of hot chocolate or maple syrup the same way again!)

Never has a book made me want to be stranded in a snowstorm, cut off from the world!

If you like your love scenes bold and hot - this story is for you!

Visit Paisley at www.myspace.com/paisleyscott to find out more about her and her books. You'll be glad you did!

Moonlit Dream by Crystal-Rain Love

2008-12-12T17:36:00.001-08:00

Pack numbers are low. The reigning pack leader, Rong, has demanded all unmated Werewolves to breed each moon cycle. Ming yearns for her destined mate, but Jason has been locked away in prison for ten years. Desperate to stay true to him and avoid the new breeding law, Ming begs the pack leader to spare her from the ruling. With a little magic, and a lot of faith, Jason is brought to Ming through a mystical realm. Now the two destined mates must run from the pack, which is hot on their trail, while Jason struggles to come to terms with his past--something he must do in order to give Ming a moon vow. Ming's fate lies in the decision Jason needs to make with his heart and soul.

23K Words
www.sapphirebluepublishing.com

This book hits the ground running, and doesn't stop! I was immediately thrown into the action, breathless with the excitement of the chase.

Jason and Ming are great together, and I rooted for them from the start. Jason coming to terms with his past was heart wrenching, yet Rain did a wonderful job balancing that vulnerability with plenty of resolve.

The instant chemistry of the pair was definitely hot, and I want to hide in a cave with a hot guy of my very own! (heehee) But ultimately, it's love that comes into play, and the ending was full of unexpected twists.

Anyone who enjoys a good were story will like this book. Moonlit Dream is absolutely one for keeps on my e-book shelf, and it should be on yours, too!

Find out more about Rain at www.crystalrainlove.com

The Path To Freedom by Lisa Pietsch

2008-12-12T17:14:00.000-08:00

In the war on terror...sometimes the best weapon is a woman...

Sarah Stevens is a washed-up military cop whose life is a shambles until she is offered a position as an agent with the CIA.

The thirty-year-old, overweight, down-on-her-luck Stevens goes to a secret training camp where she is transformed into a sexy and deadly agent whose mission is to stop, by any means possible, the financiers of terrorism against the United States and its allies.

Sarah soon discovers that this is an exciting new life loaded with adventure, danger and undeniable sinful temptations…

77K words
www.sapphirebluepublishing.com

I must admit - I was a little skeptical before I read this book. I am SO not an action/adventure type of gal. But boy, am I ever glad I took the chance! Lisa Pietsch made her characters come alive in my head, and actually sculpted a military heavy plot into an exciting read that I could follow easily.

It was so easy to like Sarah and identify with her. I wanted Sarah to succeed - I felt for her, sure, but Lisa never made her out to be weak or whiny, even when she hit rock bottom. Sarah stayed strong and committed to her goals.

And the guys on Sarah's team! Well, let's just say there's a hunk for every taste in this one. What's not to like about a book filled with sexy, dangerous men?

I'm also a sucker for humor, and Lisa's writing had me laughing at loud more than once. There's just something about a strong, sexy woman that makes even the most cool hunk turn into a blubbering fool now and again.

This will definitely be one book I read again and again. And the adventures are due to continue un multiple books that Lisa has in progress. I can't wait, and you shouldn't either! The Path To Freedom is definitely worth it!

Find out more about Lisa Pietsch at www.lisapietsch.com

The Mating Moon by Buffy Christopher

2008-12-12T17:00:00.001-08:00

Ivy knows that as a female Were-tiger, finding a mate is supposed to be her top priority. But life is busy conspiring to get in the way. Traumatized by a recent attack by a man from her past, her darkest secret is coming back to haunt her, and she fears he won’t stop until she’s dead. As if that weren’t enough, Ivy has other problems. She and her tiger side aren’t exactly friends and her brother is trying to set her up on a blind date for the full moon. How can she control her tiger during the full moon when she’s more concerned about being killed?

45K words

www.sapphirebluepublishing.com

Ivy and Edge make a great couple. Edge is a perfect alpha male, but his sensitivity to Ivy's needs made him even more perfect! Ivy's journey to make peace with her past while learning to control her tiger side was one worth taking. I felt Ivy'e insecurities, her fear, and her joy right along with her. Edge was a true white knight (or white tiger, rather), but he didn't merely save Ivy - he gave her the courage to save herself.

This debut novel from Buffy Christopher is well worth reading - especially if you're a paranormal fan! Buffy has a great way with words, and her descriptions are so vivid, you think you're right there inside the story. And the love scenes! Not only were they hot, but full of emotion and tenderness as well.

A highly reccommended read from this avid paranormal reader!

To find out more about Buffy Christopher, visit her on the web at
www.buffychristopher.com

Reviews are in!

2008-12-09T08:37:00.000-08:00

Reviews are in for Second Chances!

Coffee Time Romance Reviews...
I really liked Kristin from the beginning. She has had a lot to deal with in her life, an absent father, a hateful mother, and a wonderful husband who died too young. Now she is starting over and beginning to make a success of her gallery. She has two very good friends who support her in her work and private life. Then she meets David; his character is likeable, but I kept wishing he would grow a spine. He lets Sophie walk all over him and almost destroy Kristin both personally and professionally. Most importantly, all of the sacrifices in the relationship were Kristin's, so unfair. I was happy she stood up for herself. Sophie's nickname from Ingrid, 'Psycho Sophie' suits her perfectly. The plot as well as the characters kept me hooked and I could not wait for the next twist. I love a strong heroine and Kristin was all that I could want and more. She really made this story and Ingrid is the epitome of a best friend.

Maura
Reviewer for Coffee Time Romance
Four Cups - Outstanding Great Read

Jennifer at bookverse.blogspot.com...
A great e-book, one I will put on my virtual keeper shelf! After finishing it, all I wanted to do was read it over. The story is beautiful, the characters are described so well that you can easily see them in your mind's eye. And anyone who read this book will want a Scottsman of their own. I know I do. So I say, get your butts in gear and buy Second Chances!

Five Stars

Bit of Britain Gift Basket!

2008-12-05T18:32:00.000-08:00

I'm feeling Christmassy! (Is that a word?)

So in honor of the release of my novel, Second Chances, I'm giving away a gift basket full of goodies for the holidays!

Wanna know what's in it? Huh? Huh?

I bet you do...

Well, since my story is set in London, England, I'm doing it up British style, baby, with a Best Of Britain gift basket!

Not only do you get a cd copy of my novel - complete with autograph - but there's a cup and supplies to have a nice spot of tea, some British chocolate for your sweet tooth, a rose scented candle (because Kristin wears rose perfume), and a few other surprises tucked into a lovely basket, ready to be sent to the lucky winner.

Wanna know how to get it? (I know it's driving you crazy)

Just leave a comment on the contest blog at http://blog.myspace.com/index.cfm?fuseaction=blog.ListAll&friendID=237438027 telling me about your holiday traditions. I want to know the sweet ones, the crazy ones, the odd ones - ALL of them!

You can have up to three entries, as long as you leave three separate comments.

I will pick a winner December 19th, so the lucky person will be able to have their gift in time for Christmas.

Enter all three times! Tell your friends! Tell your friends' friends!

And most of all...HAVE FUN!

HAPPY HOLIDAYS EVERYONE!

Book Review!

2008-12-03T17:01:00.000-08:00

WOOT!

The person who won a copy of my e-book in my November contest posted a review at her blog! Check it out!

www.bookverse.blogspot.com

I'm so excited to finally have some feedback on all the hard work that went into this book!

WOOT! AGAIN!

And The Winner Is...

2008-11-26T08:16:00.000-08:00

Thanks to everyone who commented and entered my free e-book contest on Myspace!

And the winner is...Miss Jen!

A free copy of Second Chances is on its way! Enjoy!

Didn't win? Don't despair! I will be having another contest for the holidays next month!

I'll be sure to keep you all posted!

Fan...Or Fanatic?

2008-11-19T07:32:00.000-08:00

As I hurried into Best Buy yesterday to procure my copy of Doctor Who Series Four the day it was released, I came to an abrupt thought.

I am a woman obsessed.

I know when it happened. Back in 2005, when David Tennant took over for Chris Eccelston. Curiousity piqued, I found a copy of the Masterpiece Theatre miniseries Cassanova to see David before his first stint as The Doctor.

That's all it took. I was hooked. That crooked grin. Those full lips. Eyes that emote for days. And an accent to boot! What more could a girl ask for?

And so it began...I had to find out everything about him - see everything he had acted in. I scoured the internet for photos, spent hours on YouTube - I couldn't get enough. He had become a drug, and I found myself needing a fix again and again.

My husband shook his head at my complete fascination with all things David, yet left me to my infatuation. David is the wallpaper on my computer, the photo on my cell phone, the bookmark in my book. His image is all around me. I like to think of him as my inspiration - my muse, even. For through this crazy obsession, came my first completed manuscript, that has hereby been published.

The hero's name in the story?

David.

I think I've crossed to the fanatic stage. What do you think?

Trying to Write

2008-11-16T14:52:00.000-08:00

So, with NaNoWriMo going on, every author I know is wrting up a storm. Every writer except me, that is.

I know, I know. I just got published like two weeks ago, but my other works in progress are nowhere near being ready for coming next. This time of year, it's hard for me to focus.

That being said, I did manage to write some today. About 1200 words. Not alot, but more than I've written the past month. I just need to make myself write a little whenever I can, I guess.

I've been spending alot of my time trying to do promoting, instead of writing. It's a horrible catch 22 cycle for me. Many other authors are in the same boat. We can't all be on the bestsellers list, no matter how much we want to be.

Alas, It's time to go. Until the spirit moves me again...

Win A Free E-Book!

2008-11-12T09:04:00.001-08:00

Fall is in the air! The holidays are near, along with all of the hectic shopping, cooking, and entertaining! So why not relax with a free e-book?

That's right, I'm holding my first contest to give away a copy of my debut novel, Second Chances from Sapphire Blue Publishing.

And how do you enter said contest? Well, here's the scoop:

From now until November 25th, leave a comment on my Myspace Contest Blog telling me what you are most thankful for this Thanksgiving. I'll take UP TO three entries per person, as long as you leave three seperate comments.

You can be serious, sentimental, funny, outrageous - it's all up to you! November 26th I will pick a winner from the comments. After you tell me what format you would like your book in, (PDF, HTML, Mobipocket), I will send it poste haste, so you can relax with an e-book on me!

So, it's only fair that I kick off the comments by sharing what I am most thankful for myself:

I'm thankful for Sapphire Blue Publishing taking a chance on my writing, giving me the opportunity to share my voice with you.

I'm thankful everyday for my loving husband. He makes me believe ANYTHING is possible.

And, I'm thankful for whoever invented Mountain Dew. Sometimes, it's the only thing that gets me through a day...

If you don't win this contest, don't despair! I will be having another one in December, along with other fabulous prizes!

What are you waiting for? Visit Christle's Myspage Page link in my list of links and comment away!