Special Guest Blogger - Gavin

I'm baaaaack!!! By popular demand (or otherwise)...

Come on, seriously...you know you wanted me to come by and visit again. I could make this a regular gig, you know?

I'm Canadian, right? You knew that. Jill-baby is from the U.S., but I'm a born and bred B.C. boy. Or man rather - do you hear me using my "manly" voice? I can do butch. I just prefer not to.

I am who I am...which is Canadian. And that means that pink hair and all, hockey is in my blood. Okay, not every Canadian is a hockey fan (Philistines!), but I am. I love the game. There's more drama on the ice than at a teenage girl's slumber party. You doubt me? Please... There are so many fights on the ice for a reason. Emotions run hot.

I love hot emotion. I'm not only Canadian...I'm an actor...emotion is my stock in trade, yeah? (I still think I could do Hamlet, but I digress...) We're talking hockey. And my love for it. It doesn't have a thing to do with the hotties on the ice, either. Well hardly anything. Have you seen those boys without all their gear?!! And all that passion? Yum! Oh, um...sorry...ignore the drool.

Back to my beloved hockey. Lucy and I attended the same game a few nights ago. My beloved Bruins (from Chilliwack, in case you are interested) were playing against the Portland Winterhawks. Her home team. I never thought she and I would be on opposite sides, but that's the way the cookie crumbles (but not in bed please...I can't sleep on crumbs).

It was an intense game. The Winterhawks led for the first two periods (okay, for the whole game), but it looked hopeless at the beginning of Period 3, until my homeboys made a comeback. They didn't win, but they played their hearts out and got in a few fights along the way, closing the gap in the score to a mere single goal. I flew home with a throat raw from screaming. (Let me tell you, U.S. fans are every bit as nuts as the ones I've seen at home. And that whole teddy bear toss thing? Crazy. Cool, but crazy. Over 20,000 stuffed bears got donated to charity. You should have seen them cleaning them up from the ice. Did I mention these people are crazy?)

If you hear rumors of a pink-haired guy lurking around the locker rooms after the game trying to catch a glimpse of the players in their all together, ignore them. It wasn't me...honest.

P.S. Just thought I'd mention that Jill-baby is guest blogging over at Kate Davies place today.

A Signing & Other Cool Stuff

Well, I'm having one of my very rare book signings. If you live anywhere near Beaverton, OR and would like to stop by, please do! There *will* be chocolate. :)

What: Book Signing for Lucy Monroe

Where: Borders Books & Music - Cedar Hills Crossing

Beaverton, OR - 503-644-6164

When: Saturday - Dec 1 - 4:00 p.m.

Other cool stuff:

Sheila "The Book Trailer Lady" did a video review of Deal With This for Amazon. If you have a minute, stop by and watch it. And if you find it helpful, don't forget to vote it that way. :)

I've got three more chats scheduled this week and I'd love to see you there. Please stop by my Chats and Appearances page to see if any of them fit your schedule.

Hugs,

Lucy

Deal With This is out Now!!!

Cue the James Bond music and call the Geek Squad! If you like your espionage with thrills, romance and a touch of humor look no further! Lucy Monroe, internationally best selling author, brings us sensuality and sass with her new high-tech action romance called "Deal With This".

It's lights, camera, action as this novel brings the reader inside the Vancouver film industry. It's a fun look at the industry itself while taking you through a rollercoaster ride of spy action and hot romance. The book is lighthearted but intensely researched for believability. There's no doubt that the romance and sass will satisfy as much as the action and technology.

Michelle Buonfiglio of Lifetime TV's Romance: B(u)y the Book says Monroe "excels at creating alpha bad boys and authentic erotic romance." The love scenes sizzle and the characters are the highlight of every scene. Her "alpha bad boy" Alan goes undercover to find out who is trying to auction off international secrets and finds himself on the set of scifi TV show with the star of the show, Jillian, set to help him whether he likes it or not!

Monroe is especially pleased with this novel because of the character development of both the hero and heroine. The hero isn't a typical "alpha male", but he has layers of complexity to him that allows him to appreciate the heroine's independence and accept himself without having to be in charge all the time. The heroine is strong, sassy, fun and loveable. She isn't going to faint at the sight of a gun and she doesn't mind talking about sex, needs and what she really wants.

Throw in a scifi TV show, producers, spies, anti-gravity planes, costumes and great love scenes and you've got a formula for a best selling novel!

Last Week's Prize Winner, etc.

First...I had a wonderful Thanksgiving weekend and thank you all for your lovely comments and wishes on my T-day post. :)

Second, last week's prize winner is:

Tara!!!

Congrats, hon...please email me with your mailing address and I'll get your prize right off to you.

Third, just wanted to remind you all that I'm guest blogging and chatting at lots and lots of places this week, so please check my Chats and Appearances page for information on where and when. Don't think I won't be around here though, 'cuz I will. I've still yet to post this week's Pressies blog and other fun stuff. So, keep an eye out.

Fourth...a quickie heads up for December. I was shopping in Costco with Hubcap and found the most gorgeous set of ornaments commemorating The Twelve Days of Christmas and that gave me an idea. We're going to have daily giveaways for 12 consecutive days in December here on the blog. Fun, huh? Winners will get a free book, chocolate and one of the beautiful ornaments.

I love this time of year!

Hugs,
Lucy

Special Guest Blogger - Jillian

Have you ever met someone that embodied your secret fantasies? Someone who made your breathing go shallow and your nerve endings tingle just by being in the same room? That's what happened to me when Alan showed up at my door.

Gavin went straight into "full on crushing" mode, but underneath my plastered on smile and modulated tone, I wasn't faring any better. Sometimes, it's good to be an actor. Not that I spend a lot of time pretending in real life. I hate that kind of thing, but there are moments when self-preservation kicks in and you have to hide your initial reaction or be embarassed to death. I mean, seriously...what would Alan have thought if I had invited him upstairs to check out my dildo collection. Okay, three different sizes does not an entire collection make and with him around I would need any of them, but you get my drift.

The guy was a walk-on stand-in for Henri Castelli and available! And in my own house. That first day, I don't know how I stopped myself saying something absolutely humiliating or doing something even worse. It didn't take long to realize that despite the weird aura of danger surrounding him, Alan was also a truly nice guy. And insightful...man, he sees things everyone else (including me) misses. It's strange. He says it's his reporter instincts, but it feels like more to me. Like there's a layer to this guy I'm missing.

But hidden layers, or not...he's the first ever in the running to actually make me think I might be breaking my own rules. Especially the one about no sex with my boarders.

What do you think? Should I go for it, or stay safe and keep his naked body where all good fantasies reside...in my imagination?

Gavin thought you all might like a signed photo of me. He's really good at the publicity stuff and I'm confident that he's going to go far in his career. So, well...anyway, if you'd like a picture of me, just click here.

And Lucy, that scheming diva that tossed Alan and I together (oh sure, you thought it was someone else?) suggested I post an excerpt from my story as she got behind in her blogging this weekend and didn't get around to it. I told her, "No problem." After all, anything for a friend...but then do you know what this friend told me? I can't read it until the book is out. What kind of friend is that? The scheming diva kind. Didn't I tell you? Between her and Alan, I'm going to lose my hold on my sanity...or other things.

+++++++++++++++++++++++++++

DEAL WITH THIS
Excerpt #4 by Lucy Monroe ©2007
Kensington Brava - November 27, 2007
ISBN 0-7582-1180-5

Alan was on his cell phone in the middle of Stanley Park, supposedly on a run. Not that he wouldn't get a solid jog in, but first he had to connect with his boss.

"So, you think she's a suspect?" the Old Man asked.

"She's got access to some of the most advanced computer technology before it goes public through her relationship with Simon and Amanda Brant. She wants money to pursue her dreams of becoming a producer and she knows her own industry inside and out. And she would definitely know how to use the production company as a cover for passing on high tech secrets."

The Old Man harrumphed.

"Excuse me?"


"What does your gut tell you, Hyatt?"

"That she's too honest to get dirty that way," he said without hesitation. "But..."


"But?"

Bile swirled in his stomach, making it cramp. He hated admitting this. It was as bad as telling his grandfather what a monumental mistake he'd made with Beth. "My libido could be influencing my gut," he admitted.


"You're falling for this Jillian Sinclair?"

"I didn't say I was falling for her."


"But you want her?" There was an interesting note in his boss' voice...almost enthusiasm.
Alan dismissed the thought as incredibly unlikely. However, because of the nature of the job, he was used to discussing subjects and reactions that most employers would consider strictly off limits so he didn't hesitate to answer. "Any red blooded man would."

"Is that going to be a problem with the case."


"No." But damned if he didn't sound less certain than he meant to.

"You need a lecture on focus and getting the job done?"


"No." Frustration with himself surged through him. "I know my priorities."

"Priorities change, son."


"Mine haven't," Alan said from between gritted teeth.

"Your grandfather was a hell of an agent."


"Yes, he was, sir."

"He ever tell you how he met your grandmother?"


"No."

"Maybe you should call him and ask."


"Maybe I will someday." But not today.

Any feelings he had for Jillian were strictly sexual. Overwhelming. Distracting. Intense. But definitely sexual. That's all he would ever allow them to be too. He'd made all the mistakes he ever wanted to make in the romance department. No chance he was making another one. No matter how alluring he found his landlady.


The Old Man sighed, like something about Alan's answer disappointed him. "Any other suspects?"

"Who isn't one? We don't know what the technology that Prescott was supposed to broker is. We don't know who his accomplice wanted to sell it to. We don't know if his contact here was a man or a woman." The only thing they did know was that whatever it was, Prescott had a timetable attached to brokering the information.

Happy Thanksgiving!

I know that not everyone celebrates this holiday and my friends up North have already celebrated theirs, but today is the day that a hyped up, hopped out, hyperactive U.S. takes some time out to give thanks. And that includes me and my family. I'm grateful for so many things, the warmth of friendship, the love of family, my many material blessings, my renewed health and God's amazing love. Today isn't the only day I give thanks for these and many other things, but it is the day I make sure I remember to tell the ones I love how glad I am to have them in my life.

I just want to say thank you to each one of you as well...you make my life richer by sharing in it and in that I am immeasurably blessed.

A Thanksgiving Blessing
from me to you all...

May each day give you a chance and a reason to say thanks.
May your heart be filled with love and joy and;
may every care of your soul find peace and comfort.
May your loved ones be protected and given health.
May they be blessed by your presence as you are blessed by theirs.
I pray that each one of you enjoys the greatest gift of all...
love for your fellow travelers on this journey
we call life and love from them as well.

Blessings, hope, peace and love,
Lucy

Guest Blogger - Jules Bennett

Do You Expect Too Much From Your Relationship?

This was the title of an article I recently read in Men’s Health. This article was written by a man and I’d like to address a couple of points he made.

Before I go any further, though, let me state that this man blamed movies, Ken and Barbie and romance novels for people seeking the perfect relationship.

Hmmpf. What does he know? My husband and I look just like Ken and Barbie. :)

We all know life is nothing like books…that’s why we read. :) The fantasy we read about and create takes us away from our everyday troubles and gives us something to hope for. We seek that happily-ever-after and strive to create our own. Nothing wrong with that!

Here are some of the points I’d like to share. There were more in the article, but I’m just listing two.

Expectation: Wild Nights, Sleepy Days - Reality: Wild Days, Sleepy Nights

“The most successful couples are the ones who are able to adapt to the fact that crazy work days, the stress of life, and the daily grind of reality will become a stronger force than all-night talks under the stars.”

Why can’t we have both?

Expectation: Complete Immersion - Reality: Occasional Diversion

“When you start dating someone who drives you to Jack Nicholson levels of craziness, you want total saturation. You want to talk on the phone, you want an inbox full of flirty messages, you want five nights a week of dates, you can't stop thinking about them, and everything you say, do, smell, touch, or eat reminds you of that person.”

Okay, this one I have to disagree with. My husband and I started dating when I was fourteen and I’ll be 30 next month. I STILL find him on my mind throughout the day. Everything I do reminds me of my husband and I have to say I’m glad. When he crosses my mind, I can’t help but smile.

As a woman, mother, friend, I would encourage EVERYBODY to seek the best. No, the perfect mate doesn’t exist, but there is someone who will fit into our own imperfect life. I didn’t want to just settle for anybody and I feel sorry for anybody who does. We deserve a happily-ever-after kind of love. That’s the love that will get us through the not so perfect days.

So, do you or did you have high expectations? How has your relationship lived up to your expectations? I’d love to hear from you.

I’m giving away a copy of my first steamy novella, A Stranger’s Bed, to a winner drawn from the comments on this post. This spicy book will be released this Friday under my pen name Sophia Rae. You can contact me at julesbennett@falcon1.net or Sophia at www.myspace.com/authorsophiarae. Sophia’s website will be up soon!

Jules

Prize Winner for Last Week

You all thought I forgot, I bet. :) But I didn't. How could I not remember to give away goodies. It's one of my favorite things to do. Okay, so the teens have all been sick, passing around a couple of uber nasty colds...coming down with other icky stuff like strep and ear infections. (We've had three trips to ER this last week.) But I didn't forget...I just got sidetracked. LOL

So, anyway...the moment you've all been waiting for...last week's blog winner is:

Amy from Alabama!!!

Congrats, hon. Can you email me your mailing address so I can get your prize out to you?

And just as a reminder, every week this month I'm giving away a book off my prize shelves (by another author), a signed cover flat for Deal With This, a bookmark and a wee bit of chocolate to at least one lucky drawing winner. In order to be entered in the drawing, all you have to do is comment on the blog posts. Each comments counts for an entry.

Hugs,
Lucy

Deal With This Excerpt #3

DEAL WITH THIS
Excerpt #3 by Lucy Monroe ©2007
Kensington Brava - November 27, 2007
ISBN 0-7582-1180-5

Alan walked into the workout room, wearing nothing but a pair of swim shorts. Jillian was already down there. She had a short toweling robe on over her swimsuit. She'd brought down a folding chair that reclined, the kind that people used outdoors. The seat cushion and back were padded, but the frame was made of metal tubing.

She'd also lit a couple of candles near the whirlpool and one bank of lights were off, only the dimmer ones in this end of the room were on.

Her eyes hotly devoured him before she veiled her gaze with a sweep of her lashes. Then she waved her arm to indicate the chair and candles and gave him an oddly shy smile. "I wanted to set the mood."

"Like the spa?"

"As close to, yes. After all, I'm trying to convert you, right?"

"I don't think it'll work, no matter how much I enjoy the massage," he felt compelled to tell her.

"That's all right. Think of it as research into the lifestyle of your subject matter, regardless."

He wasn't sure he could think of anything but the delectable woman in front of him once she started touching him, but he nodded in agreement anyway.

And he was right. Once Jillian's fingertips connected with his face, he stopped thinking about the case, research or even pretending to be an uninterested reporter. He couldn't help moaning as she began her massage at his temples, moving to his cheekbones with fluid, sensuous strokes that sent his dick into model rocket mode. Straight, perpendicular and ready to shoot toward the stars.

He didn't know how long she touched his face before she moved to his head and then his neck, but when she was done, relaxation and sexual hunger vied for dominance over his confused neurons. The scent of Jillian's own arousal was not helping. Her hips were too close to his head and the fragrance of her feminine nectar teased his nostrils until they were flared like an animal in heat.

"What do you think?" she asked in a husky tone.

"If I got this kind of treatment weekly, I'd be too turned on to concentrate."

She gasped. "I'm not trying to excite you."

"I'm not actively trying to excite you either, but I'd say I'm doing a good job."

She made a choking sound and her hands fell away from his neck. "I...uh...I think, I'd better skip the whirlpool. I've, um, I've got things to do."

And she whirled away from him and out of the workout room before Alan could move from his chair. It took iron will and self-control to tamp down the primal instinct to chase his prey and assert his masculine victory in the most basic way.

Damn. Why had he agreed to this in the first place?He did soak in the bubbling waters of the hot tub, but they did nothing to assuage his growing hunger for the gorgeous redhead. He wanted her. His body cried for her and he didn't know how long he was going to be able to ignore its clamoring demands.

Sounds like fun...

Samantha Sommersby will be blogging for charity at Southern Sunshine Monday November 19th. Two winners will be chosen. One will receive a download of Samantha's book Trilogy 101: Turning Up the Heat and another will receive a print copy of Trilogy 101: Turning Up the Heat! All you have to do to be eligible is comment and ask questions!

Samantha will be donating .25 cents for each comment posted to the San Diego Foundation After the Fires Fund 2007 and will commit to a minimum of $25.00 and a maximum of $100.00.

Stop by and comment often!!

Special Guest Blogger - Alan

Okay, this blog idea is really not my thing. And sh$#t, do you see the picture? According to everyone around here, he's supposed to be my doppleganger. Right. Me...a model/actor. I don't think so.

I'm a special agent pretending to be a reporter. I don't seriously write. That's not my gig and Lucy should know it, but here I am. She's kinda pushy, you know? Almost as bad as The Old Man, but then nobody beats Andrew "Whit" Whitmore for being downright manipulative and bossy. You remember how he brought me into the agency without even warning his daughter Beth? Well, he didn't warn me either...not that she was with another guy, nothing. I like my boss, but he's hell on my nerves sometimes.

And this new assignment is no exception. I'm living with a woman that makes my blood sizzle and that's not a good thing. Sex is a tool, a way to get what I need on a job. My pulse rate isn't supposed to be affected by the mere sight of a woman, much less her delectable scent. Did I just say delectable? D$#n...I am losing it. And it's all Whit's fault. He sent me up here to Vancouver B.C., knowing full well what I'd find. Who I'd find.

I'd swear The Old Man was match making, if I didn't know better. But an assignment isn't the place for personal feelings and he'd be the first one to say so.

They say there's an exception to every rule. I wonder if this time they're right?

Guest Blogger - Barbara Vey

I'm always surprised when I'm asked to guest blog because until March of this year, I was just an avid reader who read about a book a day. Here's how I landed my dream job.

In April 2006, I was fortunate enough to go on the Authors At Sea cruise. This was my second trip with the authors. I am such an avid reader and fan that I read a book by every author on the cruise and had a spread sheet with the names, titles, characters and synopsis (nerd alert). Also on the cruise was Karen Holt, deputy editor of Publishers Weekly magazine. She was walking by with a tray of food and I asked her join me and Marjorie Liu, paranormal author extraordinaire. Being an avid book reader, I’d never heard of PW, so I thought Karen worked for a publisher. I immediately began to tell her everything I felt was wrong with the publishing industry from a reader’s point of view (and believe me, I had a laundry list).

To Karen’s credit, she was extremely gracious and took notes that ended up in an article in PW. Marjorie, sweet thing that she is, just smiled and nodded. Apparently Karen was taken with my quick wit and extraordinary knowledge of books and authors {blush}. She asked me if I’d write reviews for PW. I declined explaining that I could never say a bad thing about a book since I felt authors put their hearts and souls into writing them.

Fast forward to March 2007. I receive an email from Karen asking if I’d be interested in a new venture for PW, blogging about women’s fiction. Once again I refused. After all, I’m a reader…not a writer. Then she moved on to hard tactics by calling me and trying to soften me up by saying how “perfect” I would be for the job. I called my son who explained what a blog was, told me it was just talking on the computer and showed me some online blogs. After reading a few, I thought, “I can do better than that and I even know spelling and grammar.

So began my blogging career. I’ve been kind of making it up as I go along. First thing I did was contact two local authors to practice interviewing, 2007 Rita winner Lori Handeland and Shari Anton, writer of historical romance. I also do surveys, talk about things that bug me and offer Your Turn Fridays where I tell what my reads are for the week and invite others to do the same.

In April, I attended the Romantic Times Booklovers Convention in Houston (where I blogged daily) and then the Romance Writers of America conference in Dallas where I interviewed Nora Roberts, Suzanne Brockmann and Lisa Kleypas to name a few. Next up was the Moonlight and Magnolias conference in Atlanta and now I just got back from New Orleans where I spent a long weekend with Sherrilyn Kenyon and her fans at K-Con. I even went to the Anne Rice Lestat Vampire Ball. All amazing adventures that I couldn’t have imagined 8 months ago.

I should also mention that in the past 2 years I have lost 116 pounds. So, at the age of 55, I now have a new body and a new career. You never know what’s waiting for you around the next corner.

I learned my lesson and have stopped being a naysayer. My advice is to be prepared to say “yes” when opportunity comes knocking, it could be a dream come true.

So, now it's your turn. What is your dream?

Guest Blogger - Patti Shenberger

Hey Lucy, thanks so much for letting my “pimp” myself on your blog!!! I was so excited when Lucy asked me to guest blog as I am new to the whole world of blogging. And to be on Lucy’s makes it all the more surreal. She is one of my favorite authors (no, I’m not just saying that – it’s true). Plus I got her to agree to come to the Greater Detroit RWA (I’m the current President) and talk next year, so it was a double yippee!!!

And if that isn’t enough my latest release Take No Prisoners has just come out Nov 14th from the Wild Rose Press. Take No Prisoners is a story of reunited lovers gone wrong (G) Frankie and Jake were the perfect couple back in high school, now they can barely say a civil word to one another, so is it really Frankie’s fault when she comes home to “pretend” marry the Sheriff of Harmony that it turns out to be Jake? Watch the sparks fly between the two. So if a man in uniform does the trick for you, pick up Take No Prisoners and sit a spell in Harmony. This was one of my favorite books to write. I love small home town settings and the characters that go along with them.

My first release with WRP, A Miracle Through Time, came out in May. This year has brought many wonderful things to me and I’m grateful for every one. And in early 2008, my third book with WRP will be released. The Laird’s Lady, a contemporary ghost story with an American heroine who inherits a castle in Scotland only to find it inhabited by a ghost who can’t pass on. If you like men wearing kilts, then this one is for you! And o f course, can’t forget my very first release ever, Womb For Rent, with Hard Shell Word Factory. I recently attained RWA PAN status with that book on my own.

I have been busy writing since I returned home from the Emerald City Conference at the end of October. Have projects going for two agents and one editor and would be thrilled to sign with any of the three of them (hint, hint). Didn’t get the chance to say, "Hi," in person to Lucy as she didn’t go this year. But I had a fabulous time, made a lot of new friends, promoted the heck out of my books and enjoyed myself thoroughly. Even the red-eye flight back! With the release of my books, I also decided it was time to invest in a web page of my own. Please stop by http://www.pattishenberger.com/ and check it out. Sign my guestbook if you have a minute to spare. I’d really appreciate it.

Thanks again for letting me yap today with all of you. I had a great time!!! Thanks Lucy, you’re the best!! Patti

This Week's Pressies

It's time for more pressies that everyone can have, don't you think? Need to keep this party rockin' after all. :) So, I've created three fun and hopefully way cool avatars for you to download if you want them. You can find the new avatars under "Downloads" on my Fun Stuff Page. Two are for Deal With This only, but the other one is a composition of the covers from Ready, Willing, And Able, Satisfaction Guaranteed & Deal With This. I had fun making them, but I'm thinking I should have had the graphic guru do them. Maybe he can whip up something more impressive for next week. :)

Hugs,
Lucy :)

Guest Blogger - Ben & Jerry

No, they're not a brand of ice cream, but a couple of highly intelligent and forward thinking book industry professionals. I was introduced to Ben & Jerry and their amazing website by Phil Harris after he interviewed me for his radio show. I wanted to share that cool online place with you all. And I do have my own page there if you want to visit...it's at:
http://www.nothingbinding.com/writer/lucy-monroe.html

Hugs,
Lucy

The Changing Face of Publishing by Jerry D. Simmons

The fastest growing segment of the publishing business is Independent publishing and the single best way for these "go it alone" authors to market and sell books is via the Internet. Combine those two forces and you have a significant movement of writers beginning to change the face of publishing.

There is a new web site that was launched on September 1st, 2007, http://www.nothingbinding.com/ , that combines the growth of Independently published books and the Internet into one online destination that is creating a movement and establishing a voice for authors never before seen in the industry.

Founded by an unlikely pair, one a 25-year veteran of New York publishing and his partner a 29-year old MBA entrepreneur, both saw an opportunity to create a niche for the Independent author by combining a mature old world business, publishing, with 21st century technology, to create a unique place for authors who have made a decision to publish on their own.

The traditional world of retail bookselling, the major bookstores and mass merchants, is dominated and controlled by the big six New York based publishers, five of which are foreign owned. Less than 200 people make the majority of decisions on what books Americans read. Take into account the fact that for the past fifteen years the number of individual titles that are purchased is in deep decline, and you can see why the Independent movement is gaining momentum.

The Independent marketplace for book sales is highly fragmented making it difficult for consumers to quickly and easily find titles. Consumers are tired of the same old method of publishing, they are searching for new writers and different titles. The result, http://www.nothingbinding.com/ is introducing readers to "voices never heard and stories never told." This new web site is designed to make it quick and easy for consumers to find Independently published titles in one online destination.

Become a part of this new movement, visit http://www.nothingbinding.com/ today and create your own personal profile, it's free.

Excerpt #2 for Deal With This

DEAL WITH THIS
Excerpt #2 by Lucy Monroe ©2007
Kensington Brava - November 27, 2007
ISBN 0-7582-1180-5

Jillian watched Alan for several seconds in silence and then seemed to come to an internal decision. "So, you want to dance?"

He didn't answer right away, his brain fighting with his body for control.

"It's a slow one. All you have to do is stand there and hold me." She smiled reassuringly.

Dancing wasn't the problem, but he wasn't going to tell her that. Holding her was the problem. It was going to be sheer torture, but he knew he was going to do it. Even as his brain was telling him what a bad idea this was, his legs were shifting...his body coming to his feet.

Surprise and then something he couldn't quite decipher chased across Jillian's expressive features. But she stood quickly and led the way onto the subtly lit dance floor. Sienna was nearby with a guy who looked like he could play wide receiver for the Miami Dolphins. Gavin was dancing with Perry, but Alan didn't see Hank. Jillian turned to face him and put her arms out and he stopped noticing anyone else.

Damn the woman was beautiful. It wasn't just her peaches and cream complexion with the smattering of sexy freckles, or the curves that he wanted to taste and touch. Her beauty shone from the inside.

She was sweet. She was vibrant.

She was a suspect.

But right now, that little fact was the last one his mind wanted to catalog.

He pulled her into his arms with practiced ease, only realizing he should have kept his distance as her body was pressed enticingly against his.

A small gasp escaped her, that strange something flickering in her eyes again. "I thought you didn't dance much."

"I didn't say that." he said as he moved their bodies to the sensual strains of the music in a rhythm that fed his craving for her with dangerous intensity.

"You hesitated about dancing with me."

"I think you know why, Jillian."

She was silent for several seconds and then sighed. "Because we're attracted to each other?"

"Yes."

"I won't break my own rule."

"I'm not asking you to." Not yet.

"Tell me something?"

"Maybe."

She smiled at that. "I've heard a lot of bad press about reporters."

"Hasn't everyone?"

"Are you one of the good guys, or do you use subterfuge to get the story when you want it bad enough?"

"Who says good guys never practice deception?" He'd long ago come to terms with the roles he had to play for his job.

Only idealists and innocents had the luxury of truly believing the ends never justified the means. Most people lived their lives the best way they knew how and sometimes had to compromise for the greater good. At least he still believed in the greater good, which meant he had maintained some of his early idealism. Go him.

Quick Note from Lucy

Sorry I wasn't around much this weekend. :) It was my little sister's birthday weekend and then this morning, I woke up with the migraine from a very bad place. I'm feeling much better, but man...what a way to spend the day. In the dark, hoping the pain will finally go away and that if the meds don't kick in at least my body does. ;-)

Anyway, last week's blog winner is:

Cathy!!!

Congrats, hon. Email me with your mailing address and I'll get your prize right out to you. :)

For individual blog winners, check the comments on the post itself. (DQ will be picking a winner ASAP.)

Special Guest Blogger

Oh...I'm here! How, fabulous. Really. I'd thank Lucy for inviting me, but she didn't. Not that she wouldn't have, I'm sure...given enough time to think on the rightness of doing so, but well...why wait for an invitation, when you can make one yourself? That's my motto. I wouldn't get far in my business if I spent my time waiting around for someone to notice me. There is a reason I like the pink hair, yeah?

What, you're wondering who I am? You don't recognize my pic? Excuse me, people, but is there a problem here??? You read the excerpt of my story right? Okay, technically, it's not my sory. It's Jill-baby's, but I play an important supporting role. Just like on our Sci-Fi show. I even have a love interest. Come on, I'm surrounded by studs...of course I get the occasional crush. Drives Jill batty, but the woman needs to learn to loosen up a little.

I've got some ideas for that, but if I tell them to you, you'll probably tell her and then she'll get all mother-lecture on me. So not my favorite thing. She is a sweetheart though. Truly.

If I was straight, I'd go for her big time. But then where would that leave Alan? With me in the running, the competition would be hopelessly outclassed. Are you laughing??? Please...people, I am so not a princess. Just because Jillian and...um...Perry (that gorgeous hunk of man flesh) call me one doesn't make it true.

Speaking of my pic...even if we weren't...don't I have the most kissable lips? They're one of my best features. I won't mention the other. I've been informed by Lucy that this is a PG blog. Sheesh...maybe she needs to learn to loosen up.

I see that Lucy likes to ask questions of you all...hmm...what would I like to know? I suppose first and foremost, would you all like me to come back? This guesting gig is kinda nice. Second, do you watch Sci-Fi shows? Have you seen mine? (Please, if you haven't - don't tell me, it's so lowering and I'm all about being happy.) Do you think I'd make a good Hamlet? I can hear Jill laughing her heiny off - she's so going to get it. I think I could pull it off. Can't you see the great play done with a vibrant color haired hero? I so can! I just haven't been able to convince anyone else that it's a good idea. Oh, I know - last question, really. Who am I? I love these kinds of games.

Hmm...I could give something away. Never let it be said that Lucy is the only one who likes to give away pressies! I know I'll give away a signed picture of ME! Click here for it. Be honest, isn't it gorgeous?

Air kisses to you all!
G...uh...ME

A Little Help from my Friends

I'm writing a blog on the irresistable elements of connected stories for the I *Heart* Present blog, and I would love some help from you all. The only thing you need to do is answer the question: what is it that you love about connected stories?

Simple, huh? Hey, if you happened to mention connected Presents titles for any examples, I so would not complain. ;-) I may quote a couple of you directly in the blog. Let me know if you *do not* wanted to be quoted directly.


As always, I'm most appreciate of help, so if you comment on this post with an answer to my question, you'll be entered into a special drawing for a signed hardback edition of WILLING (the second book in my merc series). How cool is that?

Guest Blog - Drama Queen

WOW! Life has certainly been busy this school year! Summer was fabulous but now I’m realizing that it flew by far too quickly. Now that school has started again, I am being forced to adapt to a completely different schedule. I have homework, chores and several social obligations to fulfill. All of the sudden I have dances, birthdays, holidays, parties, and sporting events that I am somehow trying to juggle with my school and family life. It’s a wonder I’ve managed to pull it off thus far without wearing the same outfit twice (thanks to the pages of Teen Vogue)...But wait, it’s only two months into sophomore year and there is still time for that to happen! LOL

A couple of weeks ago colleges from all over the state visited my high school encouraging us to think about our futures. They had representatives give presentations and speeches to provide us with an understanding of what that college offered. While I have got a fairly solid idea in my head concerning what I want to do, I felt like saying, "Hey! I've got two more years!" LOL Having just watched my sister graduate last year, I am so not looking forward to that stress just yet.

Are any of you fans of America’s Next Top Model? It is my absolute FAVORITE show! There is so much drama and I am loving it (hence my login name)! LOL I tried to convince Mom (Lucy) to watch it with me... "Come on Mom...It’ll be bonding time!"...or... "You can use the models as inspiration for your heroines." However, for some reason, she wasn’t as intrigued by the whole reality TV concept as I was. Yet, she did watch that one episode from an old season where they held a photo shoot and the models posed as women on the covers of romance novels with the well-known and attractive male: Fabio. Go figure.

I continued to include my family in my ANTM fabulousness (My newest word). As I’m sure you all know by now, my dad is a recycling FREAK (I love you Daddy but it is SO true!). When Tyra announced ANTM was turning green this season, I saw the opportunity... "Oh come on Dad...It’ll show you how other people are changing the world."...or..."You can use it as inspiration for your future recycling projects." Again, I was rejected. I finally decided maybe I should just stick to watching it with my sister for the time being, but don’t worry I’ll try again later. :) Perhaps you’re wondering, or rather laughing at, why I insist on squeezing this dramatic reality TV show into my already hectic schedule but I swear it's addicting!!! Just ask my Aunty M.

What shows do you find addicting?

So just like on Dad's blog, Mom has also informed me that her readers LOVE winning prizes so by commenting on this blog you will automatically be entered into the drawing to win the following prize. (If you do not wish to receive the prize you may simply decline and another winner will be chosen.)

The Fabulous Prize....
· A paperback signed copy of The Real Deal (My favorite book by Mommy!)
· A Camisole and Boy Shorts set: stylish and comfortable sleep attire (size L)

*Also, if you have any questions you would like me to answer in later blogs, post them here and I will try to address as many as possible...You can ask me anything, I promise I don’t bite. ;)

Smooches,

DQ

A Present for You All

What is a party without presents? Okay, some might argue that the multiple prizes I'm giving away this month qualify, but I thought it would be fun to include presents for EVERYBODY on a weekly basis during our month long party to celebrate the release of Deal With This.

This week's present is The Goddard Project wallpaper for your desktops. Don't confuse this with the wallpaper I'm giving to people helping me get the word out on Deal With This by featuring the book trailer on their blogs and/or websites. This one is different from the special Thank You wallpaper. Here's a thumbnail of it. What do you think?



To get your pressie, just go to my website's Fun Stuff for Readers page, click on "Downloads" and choose the size wallpaper you want (large or x-large). Easy, huh?


Hugs to all,
Lucy

Keeping Me On Target

I've got a ton of stuff to do over the next month for my "Party All Month" celebration and I figure you all can help me keep track a little. I'm going to put a couple of new progress trackers in the sidebar. One for the 12 Guest Blogs I have to write in the next few weeks. And another for the final edits on my current WIP because I'll be resetting the status tracker for the WIP to reflect my new book. You won't see any actual pages added to it until I finish the book's prep and that will take another couple of days. So, I'll keep track of that status too. I guess that makes three more trackers. :) What do you think of getting a glimpse inside my writing life like this?


For the trackers, I'm not including any of the posts I write to keep my own blog updated...I figure you'll notice those when they happen. Oh, but speaking of which...we have a very special guest blogger coming on Sunday - one who likes to dye his hair pink. Anyone have a guess who that might be? And our guest blogger tomorrow is none other than Drama Queen - and is she giving away something special! Oy, never let a teenage girl take you shopping!

Guest Blogger - Nicola Cornick

Hello Lucy, hello everyone, and thank you for inviting me to join you today. You’ve had some fabulous guests on the blog and it’s a great pleasure to be here in their company!

I write Regency historicals for HQN Books and you can imagine my delight when I found out that Lucy had written a new Regency, Annabelle’s Courtship, featuring her wonderfully stubborn heroine and equally determined, gorgeous hero. I am a sucker for Scottish heroes and I’m lucky enough to be married to a man who is half Scottish and half Welsh. Such inspiration!

The opportunity to talk about gorgeous historical heroes is one that I can seldom resist, especially not at the moment when I have a new novella out from Harlequin Historicals, The Pirate’s Kiss, featuring the ultimate bad boy hero, Daniel de Lancey. Now this isn’t just a chance to drool over pictures of Johnny Depp and Orlando Bloom in costume (Well, perhaps it is – just a little bit!) It’s also important research for me in terms of why readers like dark, tortured bad boys. Just lately there’s been a resurgence in the dark, sexy Regency (hooray!) with new author Anna Campbell causing quite a stir and Christine Wells’s fabulous rakish hero Sebastian, being very bad indeed in Scandal’s Daughter. And it’s an interesting thing that in romance, reading about those bad boys can be very good fun indeed.

So what is the appeal of the pirate hero? He’s a man of mystery, completely free, daring to live his own life on his own terms. He’s also a man who has turned his back on love but when he meets the heroine she sees a different side to him. She can reach him as no one else can.

Which is your favourite book with a dark hero? Do you like pirates, rakes and bad boy heroes in historical or contemporary romance? What qualities must a hero possess to appeal to you? Please give me your views – and help me with my research!

Nicola

http://www.nicolacornick.com/

About Nicola: Nicola has written 26 historical romances for Harlequin Mills and Boon and HQN Books. She has been short-listed for the RWA RITA® Award, nominated twice for the RNA Romance Prize and Romantic Times Reviewer’s Choice awards, and has won the LORIES Award of Excellence. She studied Medieval History at London University and in 2006 she was awarded a Masters degree with distinction in Public History at Ruskin College, Oxford, for her dissertation on heroes. She is currently researching the history of the National Trust property Ashdown House, in Oxfordshire, where she works as a guide. Her other interests are wildlife and conservation, travel, music, reading and training guide dog puppies.

Guest Blogger - Kay Stockahm

Hello Everyone!

First off, I have to give a HUGE thanks to Lucy for inviting me to blog with her today. I feel so blessed to have been asked to come talk about my upcoming release, A CHRISTMAS TO REMEMBER.

Have you ever wondered what it would be like to have a clean slate? Ever done something you wished you could undo? Unfortunately do-overs aren’t typically allowed in real life. Once trust is broken, once that bond is shattered, it’s hard, sometimes impossible, to recover.

When I first wrote MAN WITH A PAST, I knew Melissa, a secondary character, would have a book of her own. Her book was released in June (HIS PERFECT WOMAN) and on November 6, A CHRISTMAS TO REMEMBER will wrap up the series featuring characters I’ve grown to care for and love. Joe was an ex-con trying to regain his life after ten years in prison, and he found his future in Ashley’s arms. Melissa learned to accept herself and view her imperfect body as beautiful thanks to Bryan’s love. So what better way to wrap up a series than with a Christmas release? Christmas is a time of forgiveness and love, hope, and this story is no exception.

Marley Pierce was a naive eighteen when she met Beau Buchanan for the first time. She spent a whirlwind two weeks with him before getting cruelly tossed aside by the arrogant bad boy, and then her life really fell apart when her ultra-conservative parents discovered she was pregnant. Now five years later, their paths cross again. Injured during his stint in Iraq, the soldier has amnesia—and he wants answers. But as much as she wants to keep her distance, to make peace with her family rather than allowing Beau’s presence to stir it all up again, she’s willing to admit he’s different, more mature. Kinder and nicer and–it’s all so confusing. How can a man change that much? Didn’t she learn her lesson last time? Just when she comes to terms with what the future will bring, Marley discovers yet another shocking surprise. Having a clean slate to build a future on is nice, but what happens when Marley discovers Beau... isn’t really Beau?

I hope you’ll take a moment to check out the video trailer of A CHRISTMAS TO REMEMBER located on my website http://www.kaystockham.com/. Also posted is an excerpt and my latest contest. But first, what about you? What are YOUR favorite memories from Christmases past? I’ll choose a name from those who post and they’ll win a copy of A CHRISTMAS TO REMEMBER.

Thanks for letting me come play today!

Kay

http://www.kaystockham.com/

http://www.pinkladiesblog.com/

Deal With This - Excerpt #1

I didn't include the prologue with the Chapter One excerpt on my site...thought you all might like to read it. :)

DEAL WITH THIS
Excerpt #1 by Lucy Monroe ©2007
Kensington Brava - November 27, 2007
ISBN 0-7582-1180-5

PROLOGUE

The elderly security guard for Frost Productions drove toward home, his thoughts in a whirl. What had that grip and the producer been doing in the studio so late together? The grip hadn't been signed in on the security log and when the guard had asked the producer about it, the man had gotten quite hostile.

What should he do about the discrepancy, if anything? He was months away from retirement and he didn't want to do anything to mess it up. He was looking forward to fulfilling his dream to travel Canada in a motor home with his wife of forty years. Making waves only weeks from his last day on the job was the last thing he needed to do.

Martha would have said the same thing.

He nodded to himself. Yes. He would simply let sleeping dogs lie. No sense in stirring up trouble when it was more likely to get him reprimanded than not. Especially considering who was involved with the breach of security protocol.

He turned his signal on to take the next off ramp and pressed the brake to slow his car. But the car didn't slow and his thoughts shattered as his attempts remained futile and the car began to pick up momentum on the slight downgrade.

***

The next morning a small mention was made in the paper of a fatal automobile accident. The driver's name was not mentioned, but his job at Frost Productions as a security guard was.
Nothing was said about a break-in that happened the same night because it was not reported to the local police. One of the harddrives that stored film footage had been erased completely and the executives were furious. The discovery that only one scene would have to be re-shot did not improve anyone's mood.

Two men, however were pleased. A piece of information that should never have gotten transferred to the harddrive had been and in an effort to make sure no remnant of the file remained, the entire harddrive had been wiped.

It was a pity the old man had to meet with an accident on his way home, but neither of the other men wanted to risk him relaying the fact that the grip had been on the lot the night before...or the producer for that matter.

Snipping his brake-line had been even easier than it looked in the movies. Fortunately, both men had enough experience with show biz to do the job right and the one who had done the cutting had even taken the time to make it look as close to a frayed line as he could.

When no one questioned the "accidental nature" of the man's death at the wheel of his car, they knew they'd done the job right.

Party All Month!!!

I promised yesterday that I'd post today about some of the uber fun and cool stuff I've got planned for the release of DEAL WITH THIS - which will be on bookstore shelves in 23 days. Okay, can you tell I'm just a tad excited??? It's going to be a month long party - believe me. :)

First, a dear friend and book reviewer is hosting a Lucy Day on her blog tomorrow ~ Monday, Nov 5th! She's even providing the prizes (my books - but she's giving them away, not me - too nice, huh?). So, please drop by her blog and say hey and get yourself eligible to win a free book. :)

Second, I'm going to be posting *brand new* snippet excerpts once a week until the release of the book. Look for the first one tomorrow!

Third, I'll be giving away weekly blog prizes as usual, but in addition to free books and chocolate - I'll be giving away a signed cover flat of DEAL WITH THIS and a beaded book thong made by the wonderful Tisa to each weekly winner. The bead bookmarks are absolutely gorgeous!

Fourth, I'll be guest blogging all over the net and giving away more prizes (as usual) - watch this space for announcement of blogs I'll be visiting with links to my posts.

Fifth, for the first time in a long while - I'm having a couple of chats. I'll be chatting on Between Your Sheets on Nov 27 and Writerspace on Nov 29. Please visit my Appearances and Chats page on my website for links. Will I be giving away prizes? What do you think? It's in my genes...my mom and sisters all love to give presents - I just take the next natural step and do tons of prizes for my readers too. LOL

Sixth, I'm sponsoring contests with special, bigger prizes in several places - Romance Junkies Book Club, Circle of Seven Productions MySpace page, Fresh Fiction, Author Island and of course LucyMonroe.com.

Seventh, I've got something neat for those of you who want to be involved in the party - besides just winning prizes. If you have a blog or a website and are anywhere near as excited about the release of DEAL WITH THIS as I am - you can help me get the word out in a very fun way!

I paid big bucks to have Circle of Seven productions produce a book trailer. (Remember the folks that won a Cameo for me on the book trailer for Moon Awakening?) The DEAL WITH THIS trailer will be playing as a 30 second commercial on numerous TV stations, but I'd love to see it played all over the net as well. That's where YOU come in.

Post my book trailer along with a link to my website to your blog and/or website between now and December 8th and I will give you a unique wallpaper designed just for my friends doing this. In addition, if you email me your mailing address, I'll send you a signed cover flat of DEAL WITH THIS, my newest bookmark and a Goddard Project pen - and of course a wee bit of chocolate. To get your goodies, all you have to do is send me an email with a link to your website and/or blog featuring the video between now and December 8th along with your mailing address if you want the cover flat, etc. and I'll send you back the wallpaper and as well as the other goodies later via snail mail.

It's easy as pie to feature the video on your website or blog. Simply go to my website and watch the video clip - the menu displays when it is over, or click on menu on the clip display. Then click on "Copy to Clipboard" below the "Embed" option on the right. Paste that code into the html of your blog or webpage and voila...you've got an embedded image for the video. Just don't forget to add a line below or above it linking back to my website so if people are interested in more info on the book, they can get it. :) Seriously easy, right?

Also, feel free to share this invitation with as many people as you like!

I'll be posting as events come up with links so that you all can participate in everything...so as my Brit friends say, "Watch this space!"

Hugs,
Lucy

P.S. This week's blog winner (drawn by my oldest daughter as opposed to Drama Queen ::g::) is: Phyllis - who just happens to be the coordinator for Romance Junkies Book Club. Neat, huh? Hon, I'll get your prize off in the mail ASAP! And since I'm feeling generous, I'll send out a second prize to RobynL - also drawn by that beautiful oldest daughter of mine. LOL Robin...Please email me with your mailing address so I can send you your goodies.

Don't Mess with My HEA

I took Drama Queen, two of her cousins and my mom to see Disney Princesses on Ice last night. We had quite the adventure getting there. Driving downtown - *in the dark* - is not my favorite thing to do and since I took my mom, we had to take her car as it's fitted for the scooter she rides. (I never minded pushing the wheelchair, but she likes the independence.) Anyway, so her car does not have a GPS and true to form, I took a couple of wrong turns and ended up driving through a pretty rough part of the city. Did I mention this was AT NIGHT? Yeah, lots of fun. I got turned around in the parking garage too, but that's another story. Fact is, we made it. In one piece, or five people as the case may be.

And the show was awesome! Beautiful skating, amazing pageantry, lots of glitter and humor and happy endings for all involved. It got me thinking about what is absolutely necessary for me in a romance. And that is the HEA. I call 'em happy beginnings, 'cuz it takes work to keep that happiness and love alive, but I assume the romance protagonists I read about are going to do that. Right? That's why they're *in* romance for me.

About a year and a half ago, I read two books in a trilogy. The second book overturned the happy ending for one of the couples, leaving the most giving and heroic guy without a mate or pretty much any hope at the end of Book 2. I wrote the author...I wanted to know if he was going to get another love...I wanted to tell her she was uber talented 'cuz she really tapped into my emotions (both good and bad). She assured me Book 3 would have the HEA, but when it came out a couple of months ago, I couldn't make myself buy it. In fact, since reading those other two books, I can't make myself buy anything new by this author.

Why is that? I mean she's VERY talented and her characters are so real. But I realized that there are certain things I need in my romance - one that I absolutely do not compromize on. I want the HEA and I don't want to read a book down the road that flips that HEA and doesn't resolve the pain of loss before the end of the new book. I know there are a lot of readers who don't mind a bittersweet ending and that's cool with me, but not my favorite thing. I've discovered I have zero tolerance for a flipped HEA though. I think I get more involved with characters than the average reader...maybe because I'm a writer. All I know is that my characters feel real to me and so do the ones I read about by authors who know how to tap into my emotions.

I know I've chatted with several readers who feel betrayed when certain elements aren't present in a book for them. Like I felt when I finished that second book. That feeling of betrayal is a personal thing. It doesn't mean the author isn't wonderful or that his/her books don't absolutely rock. We all have our buttons and when they get pushed, we react. The readers and reviewers I love talking to the most are the ones that truly recognize that. Being aware of our own limitations is a good thing though, I think. It helps us avoid falling in pits in the future. I'm a huge fan of MovieEndings.com because it helps me avoid that hollow sick feeling I get when an ending I expect to be victorious isn't.

So, what element is a total must for you in your favorite books? Well developed characters? A strong plot? An absolutely error-free book? A virgin heroine? An experienced heroine? An alpha hero? Marital faithfulness? An exotic setting? Wealthy characters? Not wealthy characters? A paranormal element? Steamy love scenes? What?

I don't want to focus on what bugs us in books (I think you all know me well enough to know that), but honestly - what one element (if any) do you absolutely need to make a story work for you?

Hugs,
Lucy

P.S. I'll be drawing our weekly blog winner tomorrow and announcing some fun stuff I've got planned to lead up to the release of Deal With This - in stores in 25 days!

Guest Blogger - Sylvia Day

Hi Everyone!

First, I must thank the lovely and adorable Lucy for allowing me the opportunity to blog with you today!

Reaching out to readers is something I really love doing. I travel to as many readers' conferences/conventions as I can afford, I participate in book signings and guest blog when asked, and I try to keep my website as accessible as possible with areas like my blog and message board, an interactive Q & A section, and fun things like book trailers.

Funny thing is, when I meet up with readers at events I usually talk about anything but my books. Recent all-night reads, favorite recipes, interesting things to see and do in the area, mutual fan-girl moments for other authors... those are the topics I touch on most. I'm a shy person (though some who've met me don't believe it *g*) so focusing on other things is often more comfortable for me.

Then yesterday I tried a new way to interact with readers that I'd never attempted before -- podcasting. Have you listened to podcasts? Do you enjoy them? It was all new to me, so I was a bit apprehensive, plus I had to talk about my latest release, A PASSION FOR HIM (which released on Tuesday) since that was the whole point of the podcast. :) I admit, I was nervous. But I jumped in with both feet and thought I'd give it try.

Through the podcast readers can hear me talk about my book in my voice, with all the inflections it carries. It’s another way to interact and when the interview was over, I found I enjoyed it. So perhaps I’ll do another one. Maybe Lucy would let me interview her for one! (Lucy? *smiles*) I bet that would be fun.

How about y’all? Do you attend reader events like the Romantic Times Booklovers Convention? Are any of you going this year?

Hugs,
Sylvia

Guest Blogger - Vicki Lewis Thompson

Thank you, Lucy, for inviting me to be a guest on your blog on this first day of November! My mother had a superstition that you’re supposed to say “rabbit, rabbit” right when you wake up on the first day of every month. Mostly I forget, but when I remember, I do it, because I’m as superstitious as the next person.

I take that back. The next person might be superstitious about black cats and I’m definitely not. I live with a black cat, and I picked her on purpose. She came with the name of Eve, which probably is short for All Hallows Eve. I kept the name because it suits her. She’s a princess.

So, was Halloween scary enough for everyone? I’m one of those people who hates to be scared. I was dragged screaming out of a zombie movie when I was a kid. I haven’t seen any of the Friday the 13th movies, or The Shining or Blair Witch Project. It took me years to go into the Haunted Mansion at Disneyland, but once I realized it was the kind of scary I could tolerate, one geared to a five-year-old, I loved it.

When OVER HEXED came out, many readers asked if it was scary, and I rushed to assure them it wasn’t. The matchmaking witch and wizard are on the goofy side, and the Dragon claims to be ADD. The book’s sexy – I can do sexy all day long – but it won’t give you nightmares. In order to accomplish that, I’d have to give myself nightmares, and I don’t wanna!

This past week, when other people watched creepy movies and dressed up like vampires with fake blood dripping from their fangs, I ate chocolate and wore a cute sweatshirt with a costumed baby chick on the front along with the words “Chick or Treat.” That’s my style.

So how about you? Do you love to scare yourself to death, or are you chicken like me? If you like to be scared, what’s the most frightening movie you’ve ever seen?

Vicki
http://www.vickilewisthompson.com/
http://www.myspace.com/vickilewisthompson