An Embarrassment of Riches
Sometime in my life I must have done something very good, because God’s been shooting the riches back at me pressed down, shaken up and running over for the last week or so.
We started with that scathing (in my mind) rejection of Saving Jenna, which left Sierra and me both scratching our heads and wondering what story the acquiring editor had read. It somewhat soured us on submitting to that particular publisher. They rejected Carrie’s Answer on the grounds that it lacked introspection and emotional depth (huh?), and Jenna for the same reason. So I started the week somewhat sad and confused.
Then we submitted Jenna to Liquid Silver. The acquiring editor’s comment was “with Angela Knight’s comments (she judged us in the SOM contest and used those magic words: New York), I can’t believe y’all are offering this to us and not New York.” How’s that for validation?
Then Wednesday rolled around.
First came the e-mail with the offer for our first submitted paranormal, Hungry Like the Wolf. We were, of course, thrilled.
Then came the e-mail with the contract for our Halloween novella, Sinful Treats. We moved from thrilled to giddy.
Then came the offer for Saving Jenna. We moved from giddy to high as kites.
We spent Thursday in a blissed out daze, which was only increased when OUR editor, our Terri whose opinion we respect so thoroughly, told us that she thought we should really think hard about sending our next “big” project to an agent with the idea of moving on to New York. This took us from “high” to hysterical in a nano-second.
Will we submit to New York? Eventually we probably will. I know that on many levels Sierra and I are both perfectly content to continue on with e-pub’s. We’ve been blessed beyond any expectation working with Liquid Silver, and for myself, the whole point of writing is to share my stories, not to be “rich and famous.” But I gotta admit, the idea of walking into Border’s and seeing my book on the new release kiosk next to an Angela Knight or a J.R. Ward is pretty heady stuff!
Oh, and to round off our amazing week, Phaze offered us a contract on The Dom Next Door, the sequel to Binding Ben (which will be out August 25th). Like I said, I must have done something good, because I’m surly being rewarded! And I’m incredibly grateful.
Cheers!
Wednesday, August 20, 2008
Friday, May 2, 2008
What a Month
April was a month like no other for us. First we finished the Edits on Meredith's Awakening, Terri you totally rock.
Phaze gave us a contract for our short story Binding Ben.
Finally the most unbelievable news is that we are among the top five finalists in the Stroke of Midnight contest.
Angela Knight was one of our judges and gave us the greatest boost, encouraging us to try and sell to New York. Ok we're not ready for that, but it was so cool hearing from a best selling author. We've been bad about blogging, but I can honestly say its because we have been working. Polishing up the third installment of the Worthington Group: Daniel's Surrender.
Finishing up our first Longfellow book as well as the sequel to Binding Ben, called The Dom Next Door.
Wow I'm tired...lol
Sierra and Violet
Saturday, March 29, 2008
Getting our second book published
The greatest of news we have a second book published. Its a wonderful thing and we are so very grateful. The bad news, haven;t written very much at all. I'm not sure who to blame it on, the lousy weather, my freaky desktop or jsut the fact that I;m ahving a hard time getting back into my groove.
Has anyone else ever experienced this? Its kind of like exercise, you know you have to do it. Its the getting started that is the hardest part.
Unlike exercise I love writing, I love seeing a story unfold before my eyes, characters deciding which path they will take and me as an author pulling them back from making the worst of mistakes.
The good news my excuses are getting thinner..lol unlike me...
I received my laptop and can no longer blame the kids for taking up my computer time.
Sierra
Has anyone else ever experienced this? Its kind of like exercise, you know you have to do it. Its the getting started that is the hardest part.
Unlike exercise I love writing, I love seeing a story unfold before my eyes, characters deciding which path they will take and me as an author pulling them back from making the worst of mistakes.
The good news my excuses are getting thinner..lol unlike me...
I received my laptop and can no longer blame the kids for taking up my computer time.
Sierra
Thursday, March 13, 2008
Patience is a Virtue
I've been a very bad little blogger. I think I've asked this before, but how on earth do other authors manage to have a life and still write? My day job has taken up far more time over the last few weeks than I'd like, and add college classes and odd "custody" arrangements, and you have one very tired, overextended and uninspired writer.
Of course, then something fabulously awesome happens and suddenly the inspiration comes flooding back!
In the course of the last week or so, when I've been working twelve and fourteen hour days, Sierra has been "pimping" us out. She's sent out not one but two submissions - which led to the first fabulously awesome thing. Liquid Silver Books has offered us a contract (and we accepted at the speed of light) on The Worthington Group: Meredith's Awakening, the sequel to Carrie's Answer. And Carrie's Answer is the other fabulously awesome thing: We got a pub-date!!!
So, when my energy is low on Monday, I'll just pop over to the beautiful Liquid Silver homepage, and see OUR BOOK listed as a new release!!!!
Of course, then something fabulously awesome happens and suddenly the inspiration comes flooding back!
In the course of the last week or so, when I've been working twelve and fourteen hour days, Sierra has been "pimping" us out. She's sent out not one but two submissions - which led to the first fabulously awesome thing. Liquid Silver Books has offered us a contract (and we accepted at the speed of light) on The Worthington Group: Meredith's Awakening, the sequel to Carrie's Answer. And Carrie's Answer is the other fabulously awesome thing: We got a pub-date!!!
So, when my energy is low on Monday, I'll just pop over to the beautiful Liquid Silver homepage, and see OUR BOOK listed as a new release!!!!
Friday, March 7, 2008
Waiting!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
Patience while it may be a virtue , it certainly isn't one of mine. I don't savor the anticipation. I am a right here right now kind of girl. That philosophy may work in some areas of life, but not when your waiting to hear from publishers.
I sit and wonder when will they get back to Vi and I. DO we suck? By the end of the week I am ready to pull my hair out. I know I have to learn patience, especially in a business where you can go as long as six months before you hear from someone.
So for all you authors out there how in the world do you do it? How do you possibly wait out the time it takes for someone to read your submission and not go crazy?
I think this is why my muse is still missing. I don't have my mind where it should be , writing steamy , hot erotic stories.
I think that is why my muse is being pig headed and refusing to speak to me, he's horny and I haven't written anything to please him. Vindictive little jerk that he is, he wants me to write sex and my mind is on other things.
So I have promised Violet that this weekend I will write, write, write. I will have no excuse not to.
So muse if you're out there reading this, its time to come home honey and I will make it all better.
Sierra
I sit and wonder when will they get back to Vi and I. DO we suck? By the end of the week I am ready to pull my hair out. I know I have to learn patience, especially in a business where you can go as long as six months before you hear from someone.
So for all you authors out there how in the world do you do it? How do you possibly wait out the time it takes for someone to read your submission and not go crazy?
I think this is why my muse is still missing. I don't have my mind where it should be , writing steamy , hot erotic stories.
I think that is why my muse is being pig headed and refusing to speak to me, he's horny and I haven't written anything to please him. Vindictive little jerk that he is, he wants me to write sex and my mind is on other things.
So I have promised Violet that this weekend I will write, write, write. I will have no excuse not to.
So muse if you're out there reading this, its time to come home honey and I will make it all better.
Sierra
Sunday, March 2, 2008
The Muse is missing
Ok,
Got up this morning with all intentions of working on something new. I sat down at the computer, put my hands to the keyboard and began to type. Problem is what came out was so not what I was hoping for.
I'd lost my muse. Funny thing about that damn muse it changes daily and I never know when it will hit me. I checked everywhere for the little bastard. Went through all my files of inspirational men. Looked up those naked hotties on the french rugby team. But got nothing, nada, zilch. I sat and stared at the screen silently screaming for something to take root and start talking.
Its three in the afternoon and I have been here for three freaking hours, I bet the little bastard is whacking off somewhere but hell if I can find him.
So while Violet is hard at work on Binding Ben I sit here complaining about finding my muse. At this point I just wanna punch him in the face and kick his ass out. But I can't because the muse is what keeps my imagination running wild, it gives me the most amazing ideas and stories. The characters and scenes are unbelievable. SO as much as I would like to hunt him down and do him serious bodily harm I won't.
I will instead wait until he again whispers in my ear the first word of my next sentence. I am at the mercy of the unseen force I have labeled male, because only a male presence could cause me so much frustration, such a lack in my ability to continue. Making me second guess myself until I'm ready to cry. Only a male could make me write the romance and sex of many a woman's dreams. Dare me, challange me to continue and prove it wrong. My bane and my hope. My nightmare and my dream.
So where ever you are you little bastard, I'll be here waiting on your lazy ass to get in together. MEN!
Sierra
Got up this morning with all intentions of working on something new. I sat down at the computer, put my hands to the keyboard and began to type. Problem is what came out was so not what I was hoping for.
I'd lost my muse. Funny thing about that damn muse it changes daily and I never know when it will hit me. I checked everywhere for the little bastard. Went through all my files of inspirational men. Looked up those naked hotties on the french rugby team. But got nothing, nada, zilch. I sat and stared at the screen silently screaming for something to take root and start talking.
Its three in the afternoon and I have been here for three freaking hours, I bet the little bastard is whacking off somewhere but hell if I can find him.
So while Violet is hard at work on Binding Ben I sit here complaining about finding my muse. At this point I just wanna punch him in the face and kick his ass out. But I can't because the muse is what keeps my imagination running wild, it gives me the most amazing ideas and stories. The characters and scenes are unbelievable. SO as much as I would like to hunt him down and do him serious bodily harm I won't.
I will instead wait until he again whispers in my ear the first word of my next sentence. I am at the mercy of the unseen force I have labeled male, because only a male presence could cause me so much frustration, such a lack in my ability to continue. Making me second guess myself until I'm ready to cry. Only a male could make me write the romance and sex of many a woman's dreams. Dare me, challange me to continue and prove it wrong. My bane and my hope. My nightmare and my dream.
So where ever you are you little bastard, I'll be here waiting on your lazy ass to get in together. MEN!
Sierra
Tuesday, February 26, 2008
Edits
Finshing Edits!
OK SO we have turned in the last of our edits. Then as we sat down to think about it we wondered whats next? I made the mistake the other day of ratteling off every story line idea we have written down on paper. Gulp! It became over whelming...tot he point of my stomach tying up in knots and swearing over and over in my head every four letter word that I could think of and I even think I made up a few to go along with it.
So Vi and I sat down at lunch and made the decision to work on our first full length Longfellow. A new paranoramal series that we are really likng as we feel its a new take on the Genre'.
So at lunch we divided up the work that way we always do and got down to business. I have promised Vi that I would not bring up any more new story plots or characters. BUT that it sooooooooo difficult. Apparently I need a new hobby to take my mind off all the people in my head screaming to have their say.
Vi came up with a very interesting plot/stroy the other day and I felt like I was steam rolling over her with all the stuff in my files. SO I want her to know that I am ready to write her story as well....lol
Then the little witch tells me about a new band, I look them up on line and poof. Hot lead singer with the most beautiful eyes and all I can think about is Simon, my everman ( A secondary character from another Longfellow story) So I am being a good girl and putting Simon from my mind. I am so not thinking of his herione, or his body or how much of a superhero he is. I swear I am not doing that. I am not going to download his pic and put it in our character file. I wish my metabolism worked as fast as my brain, hell I'd be one skinny bitch....lol and wouldn;t have to make myself try and work out on a daily basis. Yeah I'm gonna start the gym again when the flu is gone...lol
And I am totally bummed that I couldn;t see the Police but am waiting for Duran Duran. AND no thats NOT a joke! I LOVE THEM and that just isn't going to change and if it makes me a DORK then so be it because I won't be alone my best friend TINA will be stadning right there along side of me.Haven't missed them once sine 84 and not going to stop now.
Ciao Sierra
Currently listening : Blackbird By Alter Bridge Release date: 09 October, 2007
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Friday, February 15, 2008
Alpha Males
We have been having discussions these past few weeks about Alpha Men. The kind we love to read about. My question to you is What is your definition of an alpha male?
Mine is easy. He is a man's man. He is posessive, bold, strong. He would protect you with his very life and when he falls he falls hard.
Men like Lora Leigh write, or J.R. Ward. Imperfect flawed men who walk a fine line. One toe over and he turns into an ass.
Of course most women only want to read about men like these, not have one is real life. It would be exhausting trying to keep up with a man like this. Frankly while I love to read about a hero pushing his women up hard agaisnt a wall for a scorching afternoon body rub, in real life I want a nice soft bed.
The alpha heros is romances are brash, sometimes not so nice, even with the women they love. While its by no means abusive, many females who have worked hard to be an equal to a man would not sit back quietly and let him take the upper hand.
I guess what it boils down to is give me the hard, rough, perfect hero. As long as he stays between the pages of my book he and I will get along just fine.
Violet
Currently listening : Red Carpet Massacre By Duran Duran Release date: 13 November, 2007
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Sunday, February 03, 2008
Our big announcement
last night we made our big announcement to our book club. IT was hell keeping our big mouths shut for almost an entire month before we told them we had a contract.
The reaction filled us up and was more than we hoped for. SO to all the special ladies int he club thank you.
Editing, we are satill in the begining stages of edits, mucking our way through unknown territory. As well as getting together an entry to a contest. Crossing fingers and hoping for the best.
Time to go , blogged and looped all I cna for the day. Time to get ready for the Big Game...
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Sunday, January 27, 2008
Edits and websites Current mood: overstimulated
Ok,
So today was the first of our edits. Vi and I were so excited, kind of giddy. That came crashing down with a resounding thud. We are pretty good at taking critique's, at least I thought I was. Now I am not so sure.
Frankly its hard to see your 'Baby' being picked apart, and while it is all for the good. The suggestions we were given I think will defintely help our story become better. It puts you right back into that place you were at before your book was contracted. The whole do I really suck that badly?
So I will be spending the day tomorrow, reworking some scenes and hoping the end product will be more than I dreamed, before handing it off to Vi.
WEBSITES, can I just say that I hate computers.I mean really really hate them. The agony that VI and I have experienced over trying to design our own site is more than I can stomach. I know I was tech challanged, I had no idea how bad I really was until I attempted to take on this task. So at this point we are going to bite the bullet and bribe a friend for her help.
My best friend looked at our websapce page and laughed...laughed at it. So I will try in vain to enlist the help of her 16 year old much more tech savvy son to try and spruce the damn thing up a bit.
I have never felt so old than when I have tried and failed yet again to understand anything to do with websites.
Of course all of this has to wait until we are through with edits as well as another story we are submitting to a contest.
Sierra
Currently listening : A Beautiful Lie By 30 Seconds to Mars Release date: 30 August, 2005
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Thursday, January 24, 2008
Almost Nekkid Men Current mood: Musing Category: Musing Fashion, Style, Shopping
Do you like a man in a thong?
A leather thong?
Red Spandex?
As a full figured gal, I find the idea of thongs uncomfortable and somewhat squirmy. As a woman who appreciates the sight of a pair of tight male buns, I can sort of see the appeal, but when I actually read the words in print, I think things like "banana sling," and hear the Thong Song playing in my head. Which naturally leads to Baby Got Back. It's a sad downhill slide from there.
Of course, I have the same reaction to the mention of tiny little Speedo's.
So, am I the only one that would rather have her man described as naked, or even as wearing a "Leather Harness"? And what other descriptors ARE there - because a thong by any other name might not sound so silly!
Happy Almost Friday!
VeeJay
Currently listening : Kill (Bury Me) By 30 Seconds to Mars Release date: 07 May, 2007
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Tuesday, January 22, 2008
Why in the World are we Blogging??? Current mood: curious Category: Writing and Poetry
So, as a part of "learning our craft," Sierra and I have been joining loops, reading articles, and generally trying to develop some internet literacy so that we can develop some publishing literacy.
One of the articles I read today had to do with blogging. And building a "readership." We're supposed to build a readership???? Really???? There were MANY tips on blogging, one of which is to keep it to 300 words or less per post (HELLO!!! AUTHOR here - words are my avocation!), another says we should have made a clear statement of intent in our first post (as in, we clearly intend to fumble around here until we figure out what we're doing?), and finally, my favorite (nope, not being sarcastic - this time), offer up a thought-provoking topic/question to encourage your readers to comment.
So here's my thought-provoking topic/question: Sierra and I are about to release a book that we consider to be "soft BDSM," with some strong elements of D/s (Dom/submissive). To us, the D/s elements are very mental and emotional, not bound or dependant on equipment or tools. Now several people who "know" have commented that what we do isn't true BDSM (which we're fine with - not a huge fan of lables anyway), and then suggested several books for us to read that ARE. So, here's my question:
Do bodily fluids (other than that really nice one a guy gives up if you're doing everything right), belong in erotic romance? No, I'm actually pretty serious here. If your genre is erotic ROMANCE, not just erotica, should your submissive be so "broken down" that s/he can't control bladder, bowels, or vomit? More, while in certain sex play pain isn't necessarily PAIN (sorry, can't get the italics to work), is a certain amount of blood acceptable, or even sexy if you are writing a romance?
I know what I think, and I know what Sierra thinks. I'm curious to know what the average reader thinks, though.
So, consider this your engraved invitation to comment. We want to hear what you have to say!
Currently reading : The Vampire Queen’s Servant (Vampire Queen, Book 1) By Joey W. Hill Release date: 03 July, 2007
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Saturday, January 19, 2008
Book Club Diva’s
I have to agree with all that Vi has said about our book club friends. I also wanted to add a few more of the ladies in there that have touched our lives so much.
Our Southern Belle, she is a grand lady whose shares her life experiences with us in the greatest of southern traditions. Through the stories she tells us with the greatest of sounthern charm.
Her best friend, who is the picture of calm. Who is quiet but very wise and who embodies kindess and understanding.
Our political comentater, who can give you an earful about what is wrong with the country, revealing a passion and conviction that often lacks in many people today.
Our fellow writer who can describe an ocean like I've never seen before, pulling you in so that you can feel the spray of the water and taste the salt of the sea.
And of course our favorite automotive engineer, who has a wonderful wit and makes the most interesting dishes that include both veggies and fruit. You make us laugh with your sense of humor.
My writing partner, who without whom I could never have done any of this. Someone who laughs at my stupid stories. Who will write exactly what I am thinking of and who has made me want to be a better writer.
This as well as the previous two blogs are dedicated to the women who have touched our lives in the best and most profound of ways. You believe in us, encourage us , give us the kick in the pants we need as well as the ego boost we sometimes crave.
We love you all and want to say thank you.
Sierra and Violet.
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Friends, Too Current mood: content Category: satisfied with how the writing’s going Life
I've got to agree with my other half. There is something magical about the friends who knew you "way back when," and love you anyway. I'll always be thankful for those friends. They keep me grounded.
I'm also blessed beyond belief by my new friends.
My incredible, taller and less cynical twin at work calls me regularly, and keeps trying until I actually pull my head out of the computer and answer the darn phone. And she treats my God-child as if she were, in truth, my daughter.
My absolutely amazing partner in Johnny Depp appreciation, who is good to my God-child, and has invited me to let our friendship exceed it's proscribed limits.
Gee, I'm noticing a theme. The people who've touched me the most in the last several years have done so by extending their love and friendship to my kid. Go figure.
Then there's Picture-Boy. Man, if I were fifteen years younger, I'd have such a crush! His humor and low-key, unflappable personality are wise beyond his years, and he and the "lunch gang" are sometimes the best part of the day.
And, OMG, the fabulous ladies of the book club. Of course Sierra and I have both mentioned Tawny, our guru. What I might not have said is, without Tawny's encouragement and gentle kick in the arse, I probably would never have pursued writing. My characters would still be languishing in the computer somewhere, and my life would be so much poorer for that loss.
But our book club is filled with rich, encouraging women.
Not naming names, there's our fantasy football champion who devours every word we send her, and asks for more. There's our bohemian buddy, who takes me to mid-night booksignings for Sherilyn Kenyon, and likes the way we write boy-sex. And then there's our fearless leader, who makes a wicked-decadant brownie, and cooks for me whenever I whine at her. And that's just three of the many!
Ladies, I love each and every one of you. You've let me spread my wings and become more than I thought I could be. Twenty years ago (adding my own gulp here) I never would have dreamed I could be this... happy. Thanks for being a part of what made me that way.
VeeJay
Currently listening : Foiled By Blue October Release date: 04 April, 2006
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Friday, January 18, 2008
Friends Current mood: chipper Category: Automotive
Friends, Everyone has them, every needs them. I recieved a card from my oldest and bestest friend the other day. Congradualting me on the publishing of our new book. It made me thing about our friendship. We have been friends for (gulp) 27 yrs. Thats longer than alot of marriages. We shared drama throughout our teenage years, our love for music and books. All the ups and downs with boys. We shared our early twenties, trying to carve out our place in the real world, still full of drama, still all about the boys.
Sadly we didn't talk for several years, but found each other again. The last five years have been so great having her back in my life. As women with families, who are fairly comfortable in our lives we are able to share things about ourselves without fear of rejection or judgements.
We are able to poke fun at each other, Me- her need to shop , shop and still do more shopping.
Her- My complete inability to cook anything from scratch or do anything of a domestic nature ( yes I failed Home Ec more than once)
But the best part is that we share in each others accmplishments as well as our failures. What I have discovered over the years is that I look forward to every call, we laugh, we make fun of things and we bitch to each other.
Its nice to have that one person in your life who knows all your secrets, all the ghosts from your past, all your shortcomings and they don't care. They are your friend because of all you are, they dont; pick and choose the parts they like and when you say something completely outrageous they can laugh and shake their head ,always ready for the next time you blurt something crazy out.
So for this I want to thank The Queen, my life long friend. The person I can laugh and cry with. The person I can bitch to and moan and groan to when I am feeling sorry for myself.
The person who shares my accomplishments and is proud of me and tells me so.
I love you and hope you realize what a terrific friend you truly are.
Sierra
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Monday, January 14, 2008
Mondays Current mood: amused Category: Writing and Poetry
Its Monday. What can you say about Mondays? Well the kids are back in school. That has left me with plenty of time to search for inspriration on the web. Specifically male model inspiration.
VeeJay gives me this wonderful task where i go and find the perfect man for the perfect character. I am pleased today to say I found the perfect pic for two of our yet to be told characters. Sebastian and Jordan. We are looking forward to writing their story and hope to do it justice.
Now I only need to find the music to write their stroy by. I do that...assign a song or band to books or characters.
Thank God for 30 seconds to Mars as they are helping me with Saving Jenna and Forever Rowan.
And for Shinedown for helping with The Worthington Series. The right music can really get me in the mood, really inspire a scene or generally help when I am stuck.
ITs happened on more than one occasion that a song will in fact inspire a whole story. So today I am thankful for male models and music. What can be better.
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OK SO we have turned in the last of our edits. Then as we sat down to think about it we wondered whats next? I made the mistake the other day of ratteling off every story line idea we have written down on paper. Gulp! It became over whelming...tot he point of my stomach tying up in knots and swearing over and over in my head every four letter word that I could think of and I even think I made up a few to go along with it.
So Vi and I sat down at lunch and made the decision to work on our first full length Longfellow. A new paranoramal series that we are really likng as we feel its a new take on the Genre'.
So at lunch we divided up the work that way we always do and got down to business. I have promised Vi that I would not bring up any more new story plots or characters. BUT that it sooooooooo difficult. Apparently I need a new hobby to take my mind off all the people in my head screaming to have their say.
Vi came up with a very interesting plot/stroy the other day and I felt like I was steam rolling over her with all the stuff in my files. SO I want her to know that I am ready to write her story as well....lol
Then the little witch tells me about a new band, I look them up on line and poof. Hot lead singer with the most beautiful eyes and all I can think about is Simon, my everman ( A secondary character from another Longfellow story) So I am being a good girl and putting Simon from my mind. I am so not thinking of his herione, or his body or how much of a superhero he is. I swear I am not doing that. I am not going to download his pic and put it in our character file. I wish my metabolism worked as fast as my brain, hell I'd be one skinny bitch....lol and wouldn;t have to make myself try and work out on a daily basis. Yeah I'm gonna start the gym again when the flu is gone...lol
And I am totally bummed that I couldn;t see the Police but am waiting for Duran Duran. AND no thats NOT a joke! I LOVE THEM and that just isn't going to change and if it makes me a DORK then so be it because I won't be alone my best friend TINA will be stadning right there along side of me.Haven't missed them once sine 84 and not going to stop now.
Ciao Sierra
Currently listening : Blackbird By Alter Bridge Release date: 09 October, 2007
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Friday, February 15, 2008
Alpha Males
We have been having discussions these past few weeks about Alpha Men. The kind we love to read about. My question to you is What is your definition of an alpha male?
Mine is easy. He is a man's man. He is posessive, bold, strong. He would protect you with his very life and when he falls he falls hard.
Men like Lora Leigh write, or J.R. Ward. Imperfect flawed men who walk a fine line. One toe over and he turns into an ass.
Of course most women only want to read about men like these, not have one is real life. It would be exhausting trying to keep up with a man like this. Frankly while I love to read about a hero pushing his women up hard agaisnt a wall for a scorching afternoon body rub, in real life I want a nice soft bed.
The alpha heros is romances are brash, sometimes not so nice, even with the women they love. While its by no means abusive, many females who have worked hard to be an equal to a man would not sit back quietly and let him take the upper hand.
I guess what it boils down to is give me the hard, rough, perfect hero. As long as he stays between the pages of my book he and I will get along just fine.
Violet
Currently listening : Red Carpet Massacre By Duran Duran Release date: 13 November, 2007
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Sunday, February 03, 2008
Our big announcement
last night we made our big announcement to our book club. IT was hell keeping our big mouths shut for almost an entire month before we told them we had a contract.
The reaction filled us up and was more than we hoped for. SO to all the special ladies int he club thank you.
Editing, we are satill in the begining stages of edits, mucking our way through unknown territory. As well as getting together an entry to a contest. Crossing fingers and hoping for the best.
Time to go , blogged and looped all I cna for the day. Time to get ready for the Big Game...
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Sunday, January 27, 2008
Edits and websites Current mood: overstimulated
Ok,
So today was the first of our edits. Vi and I were so excited, kind of giddy. That came crashing down with a resounding thud. We are pretty good at taking critique's, at least I thought I was. Now I am not so sure.
Frankly its hard to see your 'Baby' being picked apart, and while it is all for the good. The suggestions we were given I think will defintely help our story become better. It puts you right back into that place you were at before your book was contracted. The whole do I really suck that badly?
So I will be spending the day tomorrow, reworking some scenes and hoping the end product will be more than I dreamed, before handing it off to Vi.
WEBSITES, can I just say that I hate computers.I mean really really hate them. The agony that VI and I have experienced over trying to design our own site is more than I can stomach. I know I was tech challanged, I had no idea how bad I really was until I attempted to take on this task. So at this point we are going to bite the bullet and bribe a friend for her help.
My best friend looked at our websapce page and laughed...laughed at it. So I will try in vain to enlist the help of her 16 year old much more tech savvy son to try and spruce the damn thing up a bit.
I have never felt so old than when I have tried and failed yet again to understand anything to do with websites.
Of course all of this has to wait until we are through with edits as well as another story we are submitting to a contest.
Sierra
Currently listening : A Beautiful Lie By 30 Seconds to Mars Release date: 30 August, 2005
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Thursday, January 24, 2008
Almost Nekkid Men Current mood: Musing Category: Musing Fashion, Style, Shopping
Do you like a man in a thong?
A leather thong?
Red Spandex?
As a full figured gal, I find the idea of thongs uncomfortable and somewhat squirmy. As a woman who appreciates the sight of a pair of tight male buns, I can sort of see the appeal, but when I actually read the words in print, I think things like "banana sling," and hear the Thong Song playing in my head. Which naturally leads to Baby Got Back. It's a sad downhill slide from there.
Of course, I have the same reaction to the mention of tiny little Speedo's.
So, am I the only one that would rather have her man described as naked, or even as wearing a "Leather Harness"? And what other descriptors ARE there - because a thong by any other name might not sound so silly!
Happy Almost Friday!
VeeJay
Currently listening : Kill (Bury Me) By 30 Seconds to Mars Release date: 07 May, 2007
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Tuesday, January 22, 2008
Why in the World are we Blogging??? Current mood: curious Category: Writing and Poetry
So, as a part of "learning our craft," Sierra and I have been joining loops, reading articles, and generally trying to develop some internet literacy so that we can develop some publishing literacy.
One of the articles I read today had to do with blogging. And building a "readership." We're supposed to build a readership???? Really???? There were MANY tips on blogging, one of which is to keep it to 300 words or less per post (HELLO!!! AUTHOR here - words are my avocation!), another says we should have made a clear statement of intent in our first post (as in, we clearly intend to fumble around here until we figure out what we're doing?), and finally, my favorite (nope, not being sarcastic - this time), offer up a thought-provoking topic/question to encourage your readers to comment.
So here's my thought-provoking topic/question: Sierra and I are about to release a book that we consider to be "soft BDSM," with some strong elements of D/s (Dom/submissive). To us, the D/s elements are very mental and emotional, not bound or dependant on equipment or tools. Now several people who "know" have commented that what we do isn't true BDSM (which we're fine with - not a huge fan of lables anyway), and then suggested several books for us to read that ARE. So, here's my question:
Do bodily fluids (other than that really nice one a guy gives up if you're doing everything right), belong in erotic romance? No, I'm actually pretty serious here. If your genre is erotic ROMANCE, not just erotica, should your submissive be so "broken down" that s/he can't control bladder, bowels, or vomit? More, while in certain sex play pain isn't necessarily PAIN (sorry, can't get the italics to work), is a certain amount of blood acceptable, or even sexy if you are writing a romance?
I know what I think, and I know what Sierra thinks. I'm curious to know what the average reader thinks, though.
So, consider this your engraved invitation to comment. We want to hear what you have to say!
Currently reading : The Vampire Queen’s Servant (Vampire Queen, Book 1) By Joey W. Hill Release date: 03 July, 2007
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Saturday, January 19, 2008
Book Club Diva’s
I have to agree with all that Vi has said about our book club friends. I also wanted to add a few more of the ladies in there that have touched our lives so much.
Our Southern Belle, she is a grand lady whose shares her life experiences with us in the greatest of southern traditions. Through the stories she tells us with the greatest of sounthern charm.
Her best friend, who is the picture of calm. Who is quiet but very wise and who embodies kindess and understanding.
Our political comentater, who can give you an earful about what is wrong with the country, revealing a passion and conviction that often lacks in many people today.
Our fellow writer who can describe an ocean like I've never seen before, pulling you in so that you can feel the spray of the water and taste the salt of the sea.
And of course our favorite automotive engineer, who has a wonderful wit and makes the most interesting dishes that include both veggies and fruit. You make us laugh with your sense of humor.
My writing partner, who without whom I could never have done any of this. Someone who laughs at my stupid stories. Who will write exactly what I am thinking of and who has made me want to be a better writer.
This as well as the previous two blogs are dedicated to the women who have touched our lives in the best and most profound of ways. You believe in us, encourage us , give us the kick in the pants we need as well as the ego boost we sometimes crave.
We love you all and want to say thank you.
Sierra and Violet.
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Friends, Too Current mood: content Category: satisfied with how the writing’s going Life
I've got to agree with my other half. There is something magical about the friends who knew you "way back when," and love you anyway. I'll always be thankful for those friends. They keep me grounded.
I'm also blessed beyond belief by my new friends.
My incredible, taller and less cynical twin at work calls me regularly, and keeps trying until I actually pull my head out of the computer and answer the darn phone. And she treats my God-child as if she were, in truth, my daughter.
My absolutely amazing partner in Johnny Depp appreciation, who is good to my God-child, and has invited me to let our friendship exceed it's proscribed limits.
Gee, I'm noticing a theme. The people who've touched me the most in the last several years have done so by extending their love and friendship to my kid. Go figure.
Then there's Picture-Boy. Man, if I were fifteen years younger, I'd have such a crush! His humor and low-key, unflappable personality are wise beyond his years, and he and the "lunch gang" are sometimes the best part of the day.
And, OMG, the fabulous ladies of the book club. Of course Sierra and I have both mentioned Tawny, our guru. What I might not have said is, without Tawny's encouragement and gentle kick in the arse, I probably would never have pursued writing. My characters would still be languishing in the computer somewhere, and my life would be so much poorer for that loss.
But our book club is filled with rich, encouraging women.
Not naming names, there's our fantasy football champion who devours every word we send her, and asks for more. There's our bohemian buddy, who takes me to mid-night booksignings for Sherilyn Kenyon, and likes the way we write boy-sex. And then there's our fearless leader, who makes a wicked-decadant brownie, and cooks for me whenever I whine at her. And that's just three of the many!
Ladies, I love each and every one of you. You've let me spread my wings and become more than I thought I could be. Twenty years ago (adding my own gulp here) I never would have dreamed I could be this... happy. Thanks for being a part of what made me that way.
VeeJay
Currently listening : Foiled By Blue October Release date: 04 April, 2006
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Friday, January 18, 2008
Friends Current mood: chipper Category: Automotive
Friends, Everyone has them, every needs them. I recieved a card from my oldest and bestest friend the other day. Congradualting me on the publishing of our new book. It made me thing about our friendship. We have been friends for (gulp) 27 yrs. Thats longer than alot of marriages. We shared drama throughout our teenage years, our love for music and books. All the ups and downs with boys. We shared our early twenties, trying to carve out our place in the real world, still full of drama, still all about the boys.
Sadly we didn't talk for several years, but found each other again. The last five years have been so great having her back in my life. As women with families, who are fairly comfortable in our lives we are able to share things about ourselves without fear of rejection or judgements.
We are able to poke fun at each other, Me- her need to shop , shop and still do more shopping.
Her- My complete inability to cook anything from scratch or do anything of a domestic nature ( yes I failed Home Ec more than once)
But the best part is that we share in each others accmplishments as well as our failures. What I have discovered over the years is that I look forward to every call, we laugh, we make fun of things and we bitch to each other.
Its nice to have that one person in your life who knows all your secrets, all the ghosts from your past, all your shortcomings and they don't care. They are your friend because of all you are, they dont; pick and choose the parts they like and when you say something completely outrageous they can laugh and shake their head ,always ready for the next time you blurt something crazy out.
So for this I want to thank The Queen, my life long friend. The person I can laugh and cry with. The person I can bitch to and moan and groan to when I am feeling sorry for myself.
The person who shares my accomplishments and is proud of me and tells me so.
I love you and hope you realize what a terrific friend you truly are.
Sierra
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Monday, January 14, 2008
Mondays Current mood: amused Category: Writing and Poetry
Its Monday. What can you say about Mondays? Well the kids are back in school. That has left me with plenty of time to search for inspriration on the web. Specifically male model inspiration.
VeeJay gives me this wonderful task where i go and find the perfect man for the perfect character. I am pleased today to say I found the perfect pic for two of our yet to be told characters. Sebastian and Jordan. We are looking forward to writing their story and hope to do it justice.
Now I only need to find the music to write their stroy by. I do that...assign a song or band to books or characters.
Thank God for 30 seconds to Mars as they are helping me with Saving Jenna and Forever Rowan.
And for Shinedown for helping with The Worthington Series. The right music can really get me in the mood, really inspire a scene or generally help when I am stuck.
ITs happened on more than one occasion that a song will in fact inspire a whole story. So today I am thankful for male models and music. What can be better.
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Friday, February 22, 2008
Adding to Vi
I can only add my thanks to the ever talented Tawny Taylor, you are so awesome. As a wealth of information but mostly as a good friend who has tirelessly cheered us on and answered all of our questions.
We are luckier than most and are eternally grateful to you for everything.
Sierra
We are luckier than most and are eternally grateful to you for everything.
Sierra
Here We Go Again
Welcome to our new and greatly improved blog!
Holy cow, but this whole web-verse has been such a steep learning curve for Sierra and I. Just when we think we've figured something out, we discover that we've created a brand new way to screw something up! Oy!
So a huge thanks to Tawny Taylor, web-guru (shut up, you are, too!) extrodinaire for spending an entire day creating our new blogspot, and decorating our various web-homes. We're so PRETTY now!
Between our MySpace Blog, and our various biographical pages, we've made it fairly clear, I think, that neither of us are particularly gifted technologically. This can be a giant handicap to someone in the E-Publishing world. So we'd love to hear from those of you who find yourselves adrift in a see of incomprehensible cyber-STUFF. How do you cope? Got any cool tips or tricks for dealing with MySpace, or Yahoo SiteBuilder? Got any suggestions for a really good tranquilizer to take before tackling your daily dose of web-trauma?
Share! We want to know!
VeeJay
Holy cow, but this whole web-verse has been such a steep learning curve for Sierra and I. Just when we think we've figured something out, we discover that we've created a brand new way to screw something up! Oy!
So a huge thanks to Tawny Taylor, web-guru (shut up, you are, too!) extrodinaire for spending an entire day creating our new blogspot, and decorating our various web-homes. We're so PRETTY now!
Between our MySpace Blog, and our various biographical pages, we've made it fairly clear, I think, that neither of us are particularly gifted technologically. This can be a giant handicap to someone in the E-Publishing world. So we'd love to hear from those of you who find yourselves adrift in a see of incomprehensible cyber-STUFF. How do you cope? Got any cool tips or tricks for dealing with MySpace, or Yahoo SiteBuilder? Got any suggestions for a really good tranquilizer to take before tackling your daily dose of web-trauma?
Share! We want to know!
VeeJay
Thursday, February 21, 2008
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