Yesterday, I told you I'd have an interview announcement. Today, I can't wait to send you over there to check it out! Author Melanie Anderson interviewed me and kept things simple and fun! Check it out:
http://authormelanieanderson.blogspot.com/2008/05/yummy-cowboys-my-interview-with-destiny.html
And I think you'll agree, Melly likes my cowboys!
Wednesday, May 14, 2008
Tuesday, May 13, 2008
Savanna Kougar is back with us today!!!!
Okay, I admit it. I seldom ‘do’ interviews. I don’t know why, I just don’t. The last interview I did under my real name was so dated by the time it posted, I nearly cringed when I saw it. Throughout life, circumstances change and situations send even the best of writers on a different course. With interviews posted online, readers don’t always recognize dated interviews and often they appear current. So, since I seldom do them, I rarely ask for them. However, I just had to ask Savanna Kougar a few questions and here she is back today with some great answers!
Welcome back Savanna! We’re so glad you’re here!
Destiny (who is actually “doing an interview” tomorrow so stay tuned)
Savanna Speaks:
A writer often knows they are born to write but even if they begin to write at a young age, often it is years before they begin to write for others. Tell us when you knew you were "a writer" and what inspired you to write for other people?
Since I was kid in school writing and English classes were a natural for me. Although I didn’t think about being an author until I was about sixteen. Believe it or not I was in bathroom and I just asked myself and God, what is my career? I asked because it was confusing. I had so many areas of interest, a lot of different paths before me at the time. Anyway, writer sounded in my head ~ you’re going to be an author.
What are your favorite genres to write?
Truthfully, anything and everything in paranormal, sci fi, futuristic, fantasy with history thrown in.
Do you write seven days a week and if so, what kind of writing schedule do you follow?
Currently I do write seven days a week, unless I get interrupted by life, or I’m too sick. Ha! What writing schedule? Since the release of my two e-novels, promo takes chunks out of my day. So I just try to fit it all in.
Do you write ‘on-location’ and if so, where have you traveled for your story?
The only location I write from is my mind and imagination. I would love to travel, but my health prohibits that.
What do you do for down-time?
Take care of my doggies, watch them play, play with them and give them smooches and hugs. Occasionally I dabble in my drawing and painting.
6. Who are some of your favorite authors? And remember, you can’t use your interviewer—(that way if I’m one of your favorites, it doesn’t look like a shameless plug and if not, then it doesn’t hurt my feelings—now laugh!)
I have so many fave authors, romance and otherwise, I’ll just say Walter Farley, author of The Black Stallion series for kids. And Marguerite Henry, who wrote fabulous horse stories and one of my all-time favorites, King of the Wind: The Story of the Godolphin Arabian.
Have any authors motivated or inspired you in any way?
All the time! And from the moment I began reading. I’d have to write a novel to fully answer this question.
Tell us more about the writing competition you recently entered!
None recently. I’ll qualify for Passionate Ink’s Passionate Plume contest for authors next year. So I’ll probably enter that one. But ya know, I don’t really have time for that now.
Monday, May 12, 2008
Look how lucky we are!!! SAVANNA KOUGAR JOINS US TODAY AND TOMORROW!!!!
I have to tell ya—it’s been a busy month for us. Every author I know is working hard and busy-busy. Savanna Kougar is no exception and we’re lucky enough to have her join us today and tomorrow for a blogging extravaganza! Yes, I know—my luck runs deep because Savanna is in high demand and you get to know more about her right here!!!!
An American Title IV Finalist, Savanna is published by Siren Publishing and Liquid Silver. She’s a phenomenal writer and one to check out, if you haven’t already. I imagine most of you have. The woman already has quite a following!
Welcome Savanna! We’re glad you’re here!
Hi everyone, glad to be here with Destiny, my fellow Siren author, as a guest blogger. Recently the multi-talented and ‘colorful’ Destiny was my guest blogger on Title Magic, home of the American Title IV finalists. Boy, I can tell ya that was a rollickin’ and rockin’ good time had by all.
A question Destiny asked me about my Siren contracted novel, Pleasures of Blue Lotus Oil, in the comment section stuck in my craw. It was about betting on the horses featured in my story. Well, you betcha! Wagering is way of life in Baron Vettura’s aristocratic world, especially on any horse sport. And with the revival of the war horse sport of Braverth, all bets are definitely on, amid the swirling dangers of plots and constant intrigues.
But, I thought I’d let my hero in All Shades of Blue Paradise, Book I & Pleasures of Blue Lotus Oil, Book II ~ well, speak for himself on the subject of wagering in the World of the Blue Pearl Moon.
An interview with Baron Vettura ~ Wagering in the World of the Blue Pearl Moon
Baron Zaggry Dhio Vettura entered the Regent’s extravagantly appointed reception chamber. Immediately he strode toward the woman comfortably seated on an elegant chair designed for her small, curve-flowing body. The Emissary from the green-water world of Vhesphia, the planet residing in the inner orbit next to his world, had arrived requesting to interview him.
Bowing over her slender four-fingered hand, Baron Zaggry briefly pressed his lips upon her dolphin-like skin. Rising, he offered her the warmth of his grin, and the admiring flash of his gaze. “Emissary Gjylish, may I compliment your slim loveliness and the jade-sheen beauty of your complexion?”
“Baron Vettura, you may...of course.” Her natural throat-deep voice held feminine giggles, surfacing like bubbles. “And may I compliment the promptness of your appearance. My request to interview you must have caused your personal schedule some strain. I can only apologize, however, the people of my world have been devouring news of the Braverth, and are particularly fascinated with the idea of wagering on sport events. A cultural way we do not possess. Please...” She floated her delicate arm toward the chair facing her.
Pivoting, Baron Zaggry seated himself. Lounging back like the golden cougar his Sheridan called him, he steepled his fingers and focused his full attention on the bright-eyed Vhesphian. “Your command of our formal language is most superior, Emissary Gjylish. What question would you ask first?”
“In our culture wagering occurs on games of chance and intuitive skill. Certainly not with the level of zeal your culture displays. How did high-coin wagering become such a passionate past time?”
Zag smiled suavely, lacing his fingers. “I believe high-coin wagering was born of idleness in the beginning. Once a generation was born in our history, where diligent work was no longer required, and wealth was available, the fierce boundless energy of youth demanded a past time which would excite them, and consume their passionate restlessness. Wagering, gambling...swiftly became a manner of sport, along with the various sporting games, which also originated as entertainment at that time. This new breed of sporting entertainments alleviated boredom, and brought about pleasure-vigorous ways of socializing with each other, of meeting one’s future husband or wife, especially for the most elite of the aristocracy.”
“Indeed, the ways of your aristocratic society continue to fascinate the people of my world. Yet, why the avid and frenzied level of wagering on a horse sport? Wouldn’t the pleasure and excitement of watching the Braverth be excitement-fulfilling enough?”
“Truth to your ear, Emissary Gjylish,” Baron Zaggry charmed, “the Braverth, indeed, all horse events, fulfill my requirement for excitement and entertainment. Without any need for wagering. However, coin-fortunes or other invaluable favors are to be gained by successful wagering.”
“Yes, one of the differences between us. Our society remains more communal, all to be shared. Our wagering is more for the tiny joys of winning a prized gem or a collection of gems. Whereas, your people thrive on the chaotic rise and fall of winning fortunes or favors by gambling on the swiftness and skill of a rider upon a horse. Is that not so?”
“Yes, many in our world do pursue what we call the ‘bliss-rush’ of the win, similar to the natural high of winning a sporting event. Still, there are many other dynamics at play. Often gains in coin are used in productive ways, to improve one’s land and home, to support an enterprise, which maintains the richness of our overall economy. Although, certainly, there are those who squander their gains in a juvenile and irresponsible manner.”
“Is not wagering also used as a method to possess power or take away an individual’s power?” With eel-like fluidity, the Vhesphian woman leaned forward, slightly adjusting her media recording globe.
Alert to the interview trap she set, Baron Zaggry languidly adjusted his posture, to one where he appeared more relaxed, and more in mastery of the situation. “True, Emissary Gjylish. The ebb and flow of power is, at times, influenced by wagering. A simple example would be, if I win a large purse, and use it to my advantage by growing one of my business enterprises, I gain in power and in notice, therefore my words carry greater weight.”
“Baron Vettura, there is a bold curiosity about how wagering is used in what your society calls ‘intrigues’, or what we would view as hidden deceits practiced to gain an unfair advantage. Could you provide an example for our understanding?”
Lazy as a hunger-satiated cougar, Baron Zaggry allowed his lips to curve in a smile. “Perhaps,” he teased, pausing for a moment. “As you, and the good people of your realm, must realize, our ‘intrigues’ have evolved along with the complexity of our culture, and have become multi-entangled layered webs used for a variety of reasons and purposes. For love, for carnal appetite, for the gain of coin, as a way to broker power and favor. Indeed, for any impassioned motivation. Of course, that would include revenge and spying. And sun-obviously, and too often, greed.”
Baron Zaggry shifted, propping his booted foot on top of the resting stool with a feral elegant ease. “However, I have not provided an example, have I? Perhaps, you will further define what you wish to know, Emissary Gjylish.” Friendly as a cougar expecting dinner, he smiled once again.
“Of course, Baron Vettura, I will define what I and my people wish to know.” Her eyes glowed, tiny bolts of emerald lightning streaking toward the pupils of her eyes. “There are updates several times each day on your media venues about the immense amount of wagering in the gambling entertainment salons. There is also speculation about the intrigues which are playing out. Why do so many gamble on who will triumph in the Braverth. Will it be your slave lover, Lady Sheridan. Or, will Lord Gawaith prevail? And what manner of intrigue do you play out?”
Baron Zaggry allowed his steepled fingers to lace and unlace leisurely before he answered. “My slave lover, Lady Sheridan, rides to victory in the Braverth, to win the security of our horse lands. And to triumph as warrioress. It is that simple, and that complicated in our world. Certainly, various intrigues swirl around us like the lavish gown skirts of our women swirl, as they splendidly and gracefully dance during our evening entertainments.
“Lord Gawaith has been my slave lover’s devoted adversary in the horse sports where they compete, for several riding seasons now. He carries an obsession of spirit, the prideful need to defeat Lady Sheridan by his superior skill and by his personal mastery of the horse war game, Braverth.
“There are many who believe my slave lover suffers a depletion of her physical prowess...given my carnal appetite for her. They would also believe she could not be as warrioress-determined in her ability to triumph, since she has yielded to me as her master.
Baron Zaggry raised one dark auburn brow, then continued, “Your example follows, Emissary Gjylish of the esteemed Vhesphia World. Is my interview with you part of an intrigue I deftly play against my enemies? Are my words, concerning my slave lover, mere deception? Or are they the truth as some would observe and believe?
“What is intrigue?” Baron Zaggry brought the fierce intensity of his gaze to bear on the Emissary, who leaned forward as if she about to learn the end of a media-novel mystery. “What is not? Shadow or the mirror reflection upon a blue crystalline lake...and would I wager against Lady Sheridan’s victory in the Braverth, simply to gain another high-coin sum?” Baron Zaggry smiled like a hunt-triumphant cougar, who rested after dining on meaty succulent flesh. “There are some who believe my nature to be so ruthless toward collecting a fortune, I would use my slave lover in such a betraying manner.”
Baron Zaggry slowly leaned forward, the lithe power of a cougar. “What do you believe?” He casually un-propped his foot.” What is deception? What is not? What wager would you lay down, Emissary Gjylish?”
All Shades of Blue Paradise [World of the Blue Pearl Moon, Book I] ~ available from Siren Publishing ~ sirenpublishing.com ~
Red Lioness Tamed ~ available from Liquid Silver Books ~ liquidsilverbooks.com ~
Tangerine Carnal Dreams ~ coming from Aspen Mountain Press
When a Good Angel Falls ~ coming from BookStrand late in 2008
Pleasures of Blue Lotus Oil [World of the Blue Pearl Moon, Book II] ~ coming from Siren Publishing
savannakougar.com ~ view the world through the big cat eyes of the Kougar romancerebelship.blogspot.com ~ blurbs and reviews of my current releases titlemagic.blogspot.com ~ blog of the American Title IV finalists
An American Title IV Finalist, Savanna is published by Siren Publishing and Liquid Silver. She’s a phenomenal writer and one to check out, if you haven’t already. I imagine most of you have. The woman already has quite a following!
Welcome Savanna! We’re glad you’re here!
Hi everyone, glad to be here with Destiny, my fellow Siren author, as a guest blogger. Recently the multi-talented and ‘colorful’ Destiny was my guest blogger on Title Magic, home of the American Title IV finalists. Boy, I can tell ya that was a rollickin’ and rockin’ good time had by all.
A question Destiny asked me about my Siren contracted novel, Pleasures of Blue Lotus Oil, in the comment section stuck in my craw. It was about betting on the horses featured in my story. Well, you betcha! Wagering is way of life in Baron Vettura’s aristocratic world, especially on any horse sport. And with the revival of the war horse sport of Braverth, all bets are definitely on, amid the swirling dangers of plots and constant intrigues.
But, I thought I’d let my hero in All Shades of Blue Paradise, Book I & Pleasures of Blue Lotus Oil, Book II ~ well, speak for himself on the subject of wagering in the World of the Blue Pearl Moon.
An interview with Baron Vettura ~ Wagering in the World of the Blue Pearl Moon
Baron Zaggry Dhio Vettura entered the Regent’s extravagantly appointed reception chamber. Immediately he strode toward the woman comfortably seated on an elegant chair designed for her small, curve-flowing body. The Emissary from the green-water world of Vhesphia, the planet residing in the inner orbit next to his world, had arrived requesting to interview him.
Bowing over her slender four-fingered hand, Baron Zaggry briefly pressed his lips upon her dolphin-like skin. Rising, he offered her the warmth of his grin, and the admiring flash of his gaze. “Emissary Gjylish, may I compliment your slim loveliness and the jade-sheen beauty of your complexion?”
“Baron Vettura, you may...of course.” Her natural throat-deep voice held feminine giggles, surfacing like bubbles. “And may I compliment the promptness of your appearance. My request to interview you must have caused your personal schedule some strain. I can only apologize, however, the people of my world have been devouring news of the Braverth, and are particularly fascinated with the idea of wagering on sport events. A cultural way we do not possess. Please...” She floated her delicate arm toward the chair facing her.
Pivoting, Baron Zaggry seated himself. Lounging back like the golden cougar his Sheridan called him, he steepled his fingers and focused his full attention on the bright-eyed Vhesphian. “Your command of our formal language is most superior, Emissary Gjylish. What question would you ask first?”
“In our culture wagering occurs on games of chance and intuitive skill. Certainly not with the level of zeal your culture displays. How did high-coin wagering become such a passionate past time?”
Zag smiled suavely, lacing his fingers. “I believe high-coin wagering was born of idleness in the beginning. Once a generation was born in our history, where diligent work was no longer required, and wealth was available, the fierce boundless energy of youth demanded a past time which would excite them, and consume their passionate restlessness. Wagering, gambling...swiftly became a manner of sport, along with the various sporting games, which also originated as entertainment at that time. This new breed of sporting entertainments alleviated boredom, and brought about pleasure-vigorous ways of socializing with each other, of meeting one’s future husband or wife, especially for the most elite of the aristocracy.”
“Indeed, the ways of your aristocratic society continue to fascinate the people of my world. Yet, why the avid and frenzied level of wagering on a horse sport? Wouldn’t the pleasure and excitement of watching the Braverth be excitement-fulfilling enough?”
“Truth to your ear, Emissary Gjylish,” Baron Zaggry charmed, “the Braverth, indeed, all horse events, fulfill my requirement for excitement and entertainment. Without any need for wagering. However, coin-fortunes or other invaluable favors are to be gained by successful wagering.”
“Yes, one of the differences between us. Our society remains more communal, all to be shared. Our wagering is more for the tiny joys of winning a prized gem or a collection of gems. Whereas, your people thrive on the chaotic rise and fall of winning fortunes or favors by gambling on the swiftness and skill of a rider upon a horse. Is that not so?”
“Yes, many in our world do pursue what we call the ‘bliss-rush’ of the win, similar to the natural high of winning a sporting event. Still, there are many other dynamics at play. Often gains in coin are used in productive ways, to improve one’s land and home, to support an enterprise, which maintains the richness of our overall economy. Although, certainly, there are those who squander their gains in a juvenile and irresponsible manner.”
“Is not wagering also used as a method to possess power or take away an individual’s power?” With eel-like fluidity, the Vhesphian woman leaned forward, slightly adjusting her media recording globe.
Alert to the interview trap she set, Baron Zaggry languidly adjusted his posture, to one where he appeared more relaxed, and more in mastery of the situation. “True, Emissary Gjylish. The ebb and flow of power is, at times, influenced by wagering. A simple example would be, if I win a large purse, and use it to my advantage by growing one of my business enterprises, I gain in power and in notice, therefore my words carry greater weight.”
“Baron Vettura, there is a bold curiosity about how wagering is used in what your society calls ‘intrigues’, or what we would view as hidden deceits practiced to gain an unfair advantage. Could you provide an example for our understanding?”
Lazy as a hunger-satiated cougar, Baron Zaggry allowed his lips to curve in a smile. “Perhaps,” he teased, pausing for a moment. “As you, and the good people of your realm, must realize, our ‘intrigues’ have evolved along with the complexity of our culture, and have become multi-entangled layered webs used for a variety of reasons and purposes. For love, for carnal appetite, for the gain of coin, as a way to broker power and favor. Indeed, for any impassioned motivation. Of course, that would include revenge and spying. And sun-obviously, and too often, greed.”
Baron Zaggry shifted, propping his booted foot on top of the resting stool with a feral elegant ease. “However, I have not provided an example, have I? Perhaps, you will further define what you wish to know, Emissary Gjylish.” Friendly as a cougar expecting dinner, he smiled once again.
“Of course, Baron Vettura, I will define what I and my people wish to know.” Her eyes glowed, tiny bolts of emerald lightning streaking toward the pupils of her eyes. “There are updates several times each day on your media venues about the immense amount of wagering in the gambling entertainment salons. There is also speculation about the intrigues which are playing out. Why do so many gamble on who will triumph in the Braverth. Will it be your slave lover, Lady Sheridan. Or, will Lord Gawaith prevail? And what manner of intrigue do you play out?”
Baron Zaggry allowed his steepled fingers to lace and unlace leisurely before he answered. “My slave lover, Lady Sheridan, rides to victory in the Braverth, to win the security of our horse lands. And to triumph as warrioress. It is that simple, and that complicated in our world. Certainly, various intrigues swirl around us like the lavish gown skirts of our women swirl, as they splendidly and gracefully dance during our evening entertainments.
“Lord Gawaith has been my slave lover’s devoted adversary in the horse sports where they compete, for several riding seasons now. He carries an obsession of spirit, the prideful need to defeat Lady Sheridan by his superior skill and by his personal mastery of the horse war game, Braverth.
“There are many who believe my slave lover suffers a depletion of her physical prowess...given my carnal appetite for her. They would also believe she could not be as warrioress-determined in her ability to triumph, since she has yielded to me as her master.
Baron Zaggry raised one dark auburn brow, then continued, “Your example follows, Emissary Gjylish of the esteemed Vhesphia World. Is my interview with you part of an intrigue I deftly play against my enemies? Are my words, concerning my slave lover, mere deception? Or are they the truth as some would observe and believe?
“What is intrigue?” Baron Zaggry brought the fierce intensity of his gaze to bear on the Emissary, who leaned forward as if she about to learn the end of a media-novel mystery. “What is not? Shadow or the mirror reflection upon a blue crystalline lake...and would I wager against Lady Sheridan’s victory in the Braverth, simply to gain another high-coin sum?” Baron Zaggry smiled like a hunt-triumphant cougar, who rested after dining on meaty succulent flesh. “There are some who believe my nature to be so ruthless toward collecting a fortune, I would use my slave lover in such a betraying manner.”
Baron Zaggry slowly leaned forward, the lithe power of a cougar. “What do you believe?” He casually un-propped his foot.” What is deception? What is not? What wager would you lay down, Emissary Gjylish?”
All Shades of Blue Paradise [World of the Blue Pearl Moon, Book I] ~ available from Siren Publishing ~ sirenpublishing.com ~
Red Lioness Tamed ~ available from Liquid Silver Books ~ liquidsilverbooks.com ~
Tangerine Carnal Dreams ~ coming from Aspen Mountain Press
When a Good Angel Falls ~ coming from BookStrand late in 2008
Pleasures of Blue Lotus Oil [World of the Blue Pearl Moon, Book II] ~ coming from Siren Publishing
savannakougar.com ~ view the world through the big cat eyes of the Kougar romancerebelship.blogspot.com ~ blurbs and reviews of my current releases titlemagic.blogspot.com ~ blog of the American Title IV finalists
Wednesday, May 7, 2008
Delurking at CATA tomorrow!!
Who has the best online parties in the world?
Come on now, think about it.
Think about where you can go to find the best chats online today and you’ll know where to find them—among authors!
That’s why it should come as no surprise to you that we’re all joining in for a DELURKING PARTY at CataNetwork Readers!
On May 8th from 10 AM until 10 PM EST, we’re going to chat, give away books, bookmarks, PDF files, print novels, new titles, old titles, lovely promo gifts, maybe even some ugly promo gifts (if it strikes our fancy) and so much loot that I can’t even begin to explain it all to you!
But trust me…the word FREE will take on a new meaning!!!
We’re ready for a good time on May 8th and we’re giving away over 200 items so come on over to CATA at http://groups.yahoo.com/group/CataNetwork-Readers/
Yes, that’s tomorrow! Be there with your bells on!
Destiny
Come on now, think about it.
Think about where you can go to find the best chats online today and you’ll know where to find them—among authors!
That’s why it should come as no surprise to you that we’re all joining in for a DELURKING PARTY at CataNetwork Readers!
On May 8th from 10 AM until 10 PM EST, we’re going to chat, give away books, bookmarks, PDF files, print novels, new titles, old titles, lovely promo gifts, maybe even some ugly promo gifts (if it strikes our fancy) and so much loot that I can’t even begin to explain it all to you!
But trust me…the word FREE will take on a new meaning!!!
We’re ready for a good time on May 8th and we’re giving away over 200 items so come on over to CATA at http://groups.yahoo.com/group/CataNetwork-Readers/
Yes, that’s tomorrow! Be there with your bells on!
Destiny
Friday, May 2, 2008
Welcome Back Catherine Chernow!
Good Friday Morning Bloggers! Today, Catherine Chernow returns to blog with us and I’m thrilled she is posting an excerpt from Lady in White! As some of you know, Lady in White is included in the SHIVERS anthology and guess who else shares the pages of Shivers? Hmmmmm….Go check it out today at Amazon: http://tinyurl.com/4c5vza
Frightful Friday Fun
By Catherine Chernow
Fear.
It makes our hearts pound, our pulse race. Ever been alone in your house, watching a scary movie then hear a strange noise? You jump out of your chair, the hair on the back of your neck rising in response to the adrenaline coursing through your body.
Fear.
Oh, how I love to be scared!
Ever since I was a kid, I’ve always enjoyed a good horror flick, a fright-filled, scary movie.
Give me a good ghost story. My fascination with ghosts started when I read the story, ‘The Haunting of Hill House,’ by Shirley Jackson.
Wow! Talk about being scared. I saw the movie they made from that story, too. It was remade a couple of years ago, but the original, black & white version is the best.
How about Gary Oldman in the movie, ‘Dracula?’ Was he just an absolute fright?
Fear makes our ‘flight or fight’ response to danger kick in. Without that response, we humans wouldn’t survive, yet, despite fears obvious drawbacks – many of us have this strange yearning to be scared out of our wits – we enjoy that adrenaline rush.
While that adrenaline flows, so do a lot of other hormones.
Fear can drive the heroine straight into the hero’s arms, the response to a dangerous situation can be the urge to mate, to reaffirm life, the need to feel alive.
How about you? Do you like a good horror movie? A scary tale?
During the scary scene in a movie, do you cuddle closer to your favorite honey?
Let’s share a fright-filled Friday here at Destiny Blaine’s blog spot. I’ll be posting excerpts today that will make the blood pound through your veins, the hairs on the back of our neck rise.
Starting with…
Serena Reilly has come to 'Bride's Inn' to care for it's owner, elderly Clarice Masters. One dark and stormy night, a darkly handsome, mysterious visitor arrives at the old inn, scaring....and kissing Serena senseless. But the handsome rogue, a man who Serena comes to know as her dark prince, a man who stirs Serena's deepest, most erotic desires, isn't all that he seems...and neither is she.
Seth Masters has come to Bride's Inn to find respite from the mess his life has become. What he finds instead, is a fiery, tempting goddess, a woman who sets his very soul...and his loins...ablaze. But Seth has nothing to offer a beautiful woman like Serena, for his life is a maize of harsh reality and uncertainty...a life filled with danger.
As Seth and Serena's mutual attraction grows, so does the mystery surrounding Bride's Inn, and the strange apparition that haunts its legendary halls. Serena and Seth stand to lose far more than their hearts when the 'Lady in White' shows up. When Serena's life is threatened, it is up to Seth to save his fiery-haired goddess.
Together, they both discover the real story behind, the 'Lady in White.'
************
Chapter One
"Sereeeeeeeenaaaaa..."
Serena Reilly rose from her bed, her eyes heavy with sleep.
“I’m coming!”
Outside her bedroom window a spring storm raged, battering Long Island’s rocky north shore. A flash of lightening lit up the night sky as the rain fell in sheets, pounding against the windowpanes, the howl of the wind echoing a mournful cry in the pitch-black night.
"Sereeeeeeeenaaaaa..."
The eerie voice echoed a sad wail like the low howl of the wind whipping through the trees outside. Serena shoved her arms into the sleeves of her robe, shuddering against the cold, damp night air. She rushed out of her bedroom, anxious to get to her elderly charge, Clarice Masters. As she ran down the hallway towards Clarice’s room, she heard the heartrending cry once more.
"Sereeeeeeeenaaaaa..."
Her heart pounded as she rushed down the long corridor, stopping in front of Clarice’s room. She opened the door and stepped inside, the absolute stillness of Clarice’s darkened bedroom greeting her. Serena padded towards the bed to find her charge sound asleep.
She eased into a nearby chair, her body trembling. Night after night, she heard that eerie voice calling to her. It sounded like a woman…a sad, lonely woman.
Serena shrank back in the chair, her fingers tightening on the arms when she heard a deep rumbling and a crack of thunder that shook the entire house. She covered her ears to block the sound of a loud crash, squinting when bright, blinding light illuminated the sky and a jagged stroke of lightening struck the ancient oak tree right outside Clarice’s bedroom window. It split the branch from the tree trunk in one stroke, the tips of the branches grazing the windowpane as it fell to the ground, the sound like fingernails scraping against a chalkboard.
Serena trembled, every nerve ending in her body vibrating as she watched the scene unfold through terror-filled eyes. She huddled in the chair, pulling her shaking legs up onto the seat, wrapping her arms around her knees to stop their knocking.
“My nephew used to climb that tree when he was little.”
Serena jumped at the sound of Clarice’s voice. The older woman sat up in bed, her eyes settling on the rain as it ran down the windowpane.
“Are you all right?” Serena asked, struggling to keep her voice steady. She reached over and fluffed the pillow behind Clarice's snow-white curls. Sitting on the edge of the bed, Serena gently took the older woman’s hands in her own. She rubbed them, warming the thin skin.
Clarice angled her head, her large blue eyes intense. “I’m fine, dear. Why do you ask?”
“I thought I heard…never mind.” Serena chose to not say anything about the mysterious voice she heard in the dead of night. It would only frighten Clarice. “Well, since I’m up, can I get you anything?” Serena asked.
Clarice smiled, the corners of her mouth lifting in a wide grin. “A glass of warm milk would be nice.” Then she yawned, ruining the effect.
Serena hid a grimace and wondered, not for the first time, how Clarice could drink that concoction she loved of warm milk and…butter. Yuck.
She forced a cheerful smile. “Coming right up.”
She padded down the main staircase and entered the kitchen, flipping on the light switch. As she walked towards the refrigerator to retrieve a bottle of milk, the hairs on the back of her neck rose. A cold breeze wafted by, swirling around her ankles, lightly brushing her shoulder. She turned, fully expecting to see someone watching her from the shadows.
No one was there.
"I've got to a get a grip," she muttered. After blowing out a shaky breath, she warmed some milk in a pan on the stove and when she finished, topped it off with a piece of butter. The butter floated on the top, forming a nasty yellow film. Screwing up her face, she stirred the butter into the milk, all the while muttering, “Yuck, yuck, yuck….”
Serena filled a glass almost to the brim with the warm milk and butter. She jumped when thunder boomed in the distance, startling her once more. She set the milk on the tray, willing her hands to remain steady.
She left the kitchen and made her way towards the wide staircase in the center hall, steadily balancing the tray as she began her ascent up the long staircase. Confident that she had re-gained her calm, she glanced up, freezing in mid-stride as her gaze fell upon a woman who stood at the top of the stairs.
A thin, white veil shrouded her face and she wore a long, white gown studded with beads and flowers. Serena blinked as she gazed at the woman, the dress appearing…ancient. As the woman neared, Serena could see that some of the exquisite beadwork and tiny, white flowers had yellowed with age.
“Who are you?” Serena whispered, her voice trembling with fear.
No answer.
The woman continued her steady descent and Serena backed up, alarm filling her with every step the mysterious woman took. She appeared to float down the stairs, her slippered feet barely skimming each tread.
Serena fought a rising tide of panic. Who was this woman? What if she was here to hurt Clarice? She would never forgive herself if something happened to her elderly charge. Mustering her courage, she took a deep breath and willed her feet to move, her hands shaking as she gripped the tray, determined to toss its contents at the stranger if she dared try to harm her.
The woman did not appear to notice Serena as she drew near, clutching a bouquet of white roses in her hands, her gaze focused beyond Serena. She lifted her arm then, and pointed at the front door. Serena glanced back at the entrance, peering through the glass pane on the door.
A shadow moved outside.
Frantic, she turned back towards the stairs but the strange woman had vanished. She blinked, thinking she was losing her mind. First, the fierce storm had her jumping out of her skin, and now it seemed that her fuzzy mind played tricks on her. The doorknob rattled, followed by fierce pounding. A face pressed against the glass, the nose and lips grotesquely distorted, a dark monster staring through the small pane of glass.
She dropped the tray, the tumbler containing Clarice’s treat shattering into a thousand shards as milked spilled everywhere, seeping across the polished wood floor.
********************
LADY IN WHITE
Copyright 2007 by Catherine Chernow
Frightful Friday Fun
By Catherine Chernow
Fear.
It makes our hearts pound, our pulse race. Ever been alone in your house, watching a scary movie then hear a strange noise? You jump out of your chair, the hair on the back of your neck rising in response to the adrenaline coursing through your body.
Fear.
Oh, how I love to be scared!
Ever since I was a kid, I’ve always enjoyed a good horror flick, a fright-filled, scary movie.
Give me a good ghost story. My fascination with ghosts started when I read the story, ‘The Haunting of Hill House,’ by Shirley Jackson.
Wow! Talk about being scared. I saw the movie they made from that story, too. It was remade a couple of years ago, but the original, black & white version is the best.
How about Gary Oldman in the movie, ‘Dracula?’ Was he just an absolute fright?
Fear makes our ‘flight or fight’ response to danger kick in. Without that response, we humans wouldn’t survive, yet, despite fears obvious drawbacks – many of us have this strange yearning to be scared out of our wits – we enjoy that adrenaline rush.
While that adrenaline flows, so do a lot of other hormones.
Fear can drive the heroine straight into the hero’s arms, the response to a dangerous situation can be the urge to mate, to reaffirm life, the need to feel alive.
How about you? Do you like a good horror movie? A scary tale?
During the scary scene in a movie, do you cuddle closer to your favorite honey?
Let’s share a fright-filled Friday here at Destiny Blaine’s blog spot. I’ll be posting excerpts today that will make the blood pound through your veins, the hairs on the back of our neck rise.
Starting with…
Serena Reilly has come to 'Bride's Inn' to care for it's owner, elderly Clarice Masters. One dark and stormy night, a darkly handsome, mysterious visitor arrives at the old inn, scaring....and kissing Serena senseless. But the handsome rogue, a man who Serena comes to know as her dark prince, a man who stirs Serena's deepest, most erotic desires, isn't all that he seems...and neither is she.
Seth Masters has come to Bride's Inn to find respite from the mess his life has become. What he finds instead, is a fiery, tempting goddess, a woman who sets his very soul...and his loins...ablaze. But Seth has nothing to offer a beautiful woman like Serena, for his life is a maize of harsh reality and uncertainty...a life filled with danger.
As Seth and Serena's mutual attraction grows, so does the mystery surrounding Bride's Inn, and the strange apparition that haunts its legendary halls. Serena and Seth stand to lose far more than their hearts when the 'Lady in White' shows up. When Serena's life is threatened, it is up to Seth to save his fiery-haired goddess.
Together, they both discover the real story behind, the 'Lady in White.'
************
Chapter One
"Sereeeeeeeenaaaaa..."
Serena Reilly rose from her bed, her eyes heavy with sleep.
“I’m coming!”
Outside her bedroom window a spring storm raged, battering Long Island’s rocky north shore. A flash of lightening lit up the night sky as the rain fell in sheets, pounding against the windowpanes, the howl of the wind echoing a mournful cry in the pitch-black night.
"Sereeeeeeeenaaaaa..."
The eerie voice echoed a sad wail like the low howl of the wind whipping through the trees outside. Serena shoved her arms into the sleeves of her robe, shuddering against the cold, damp night air. She rushed out of her bedroom, anxious to get to her elderly charge, Clarice Masters. As she ran down the hallway towards Clarice’s room, she heard the heartrending cry once more.
"Sereeeeeeeenaaaaa..."
Her heart pounded as she rushed down the long corridor, stopping in front of Clarice’s room. She opened the door and stepped inside, the absolute stillness of Clarice’s darkened bedroom greeting her. Serena padded towards the bed to find her charge sound asleep.
She eased into a nearby chair, her body trembling. Night after night, she heard that eerie voice calling to her. It sounded like a woman…a sad, lonely woman.
Serena shrank back in the chair, her fingers tightening on the arms when she heard a deep rumbling and a crack of thunder that shook the entire house. She covered her ears to block the sound of a loud crash, squinting when bright, blinding light illuminated the sky and a jagged stroke of lightening struck the ancient oak tree right outside Clarice’s bedroom window. It split the branch from the tree trunk in one stroke, the tips of the branches grazing the windowpane as it fell to the ground, the sound like fingernails scraping against a chalkboard.
Serena trembled, every nerve ending in her body vibrating as she watched the scene unfold through terror-filled eyes. She huddled in the chair, pulling her shaking legs up onto the seat, wrapping her arms around her knees to stop their knocking.
“My nephew used to climb that tree when he was little.”
Serena jumped at the sound of Clarice’s voice. The older woman sat up in bed, her eyes settling on the rain as it ran down the windowpane.
“Are you all right?” Serena asked, struggling to keep her voice steady. She reached over and fluffed the pillow behind Clarice's snow-white curls. Sitting on the edge of the bed, Serena gently took the older woman’s hands in her own. She rubbed them, warming the thin skin.
Clarice angled her head, her large blue eyes intense. “I’m fine, dear. Why do you ask?”
“I thought I heard…never mind.” Serena chose to not say anything about the mysterious voice she heard in the dead of night. It would only frighten Clarice. “Well, since I’m up, can I get you anything?” Serena asked.
Clarice smiled, the corners of her mouth lifting in a wide grin. “A glass of warm milk would be nice.” Then she yawned, ruining the effect.
Serena hid a grimace and wondered, not for the first time, how Clarice could drink that concoction she loved of warm milk and…butter. Yuck.
She forced a cheerful smile. “Coming right up.”
She padded down the main staircase and entered the kitchen, flipping on the light switch. As she walked towards the refrigerator to retrieve a bottle of milk, the hairs on the back of her neck rose. A cold breeze wafted by, swirling around her ankles, lightly brushing her shoulder. She turned, fully expecting to see someone watching her from the shadows.
No one was there.
"I've got to a get a grip," she muttered. After blowing out a shaky breath, she warmed some milk in a pan on the stove and when she finished, topped it off with a piece of butter. The butter floated on the top, forming a nasty yellow film. Screwing up her face, she stirred the butter into the milk, all the while muttering, “Yuck, yuck, yuck….”
Serena filled a glass almost to the brim with the warm milk and butter. She jumped when thunder boomed in the distance, startling her once more. She set the milk on the tray, willing her hands to remain steady.
She left the kitchen and made her way towards the wide staircase in the center hall, steadily balancing the tray as she began her ascent up the long staircase. Confident that she had re-gained her calm, she glanced up, freezing in mid-stride as her gaze fell upon a woman who stood at the top of the stairs.
A thin, white veil shrouded her face and she wore a long, white gown studded with beads and flowers. Serena blinked as she gazed at the woman, the dress appearing…ancient. As the woman neared, Serena could see that some of the exquisite beadwork and tiny, white flowers had yellowed with age.
“Who are you?” Serena whispered, her voice trembling with fear.
No answer.
The woman continued her steady descent and Serena backed up, alarm filling her with every step the mysterious woman took. She appeared to float down the stairs, her slippered feet barely skimming each tread.
Serena fought a rising tide of panic. Who was this woman? What if she was here to hurt Clarice? She would never forgive herself if something happened to her elderly charge. Mustering her courage, she took a deep breath and willed her feet to move, her hands shaking as she gripped the tray, determined to toss its contents at the stranger if she dared try to harm her.
The woman did not appear to notice Serena as she drew near, clutching a bouquet of white roses in her hands, her gaze focused beyond Serena. She lifted her arm then, and pointed at the front door. Serena glanced back at the entrance, peering through the glass pane on the door.
A shadow moved outside.
Frantic, she turned back towards the stairs but the strange woman had vanished. She blinked, thinking she was losing her mind. First, the fierce storm had her jumping out of her skin, and now it seemed that her fuzzy mind played tricks on her. The doorknob rattled, followed by fierce pounding. A face pressed against the glass, the nose and lips grotesquely distorted, a dark monster staring through the small pane of glass.
She dropped the tray, the tumbler containing Clarice’s treat shattering into a thousand shards as milked spilled everywhere, seeping across the polished wood floor.
********************
LADY IN WHITE
Copyright 2007 by Catherine Chernow
Thursday, May 1, 2008
Step into the world of Catherine Chernow for the best of erotic romance
Step into the world of Catherine Chernow for the best of erotic romance.
Featuring sexy, strong heroes and kick-ass heroines
Intrigue...unexpected twists...the paranormal...and the steamier side of sex
Visit www.CatherineChernow.com today and tonight, go to bed happy after reading a good book!
Get to know Catherine Chernow!
When did you start writing?
I started writing as a child – in elementary school. When the teacher assigned a topic for a writing assignment, I reveled in it. LOL – in high school and college, I was the kid who never minded writing those loooooooooooong research papers.
What occupies your time- other than writing?
My husband, my two children and my two cats. My children are grown now, so we usually get together on the weekends. I enjoy cooking for a large crowd – my husband and I fill our home with family and friends.
Reading and gardening are two of my favorite things to do.
Do you schedule your writing time?
Yes. My schedule is so busy, that I have to set aside writing time and I work better when I’m under a deadline.
What are you presently working on?
Presently, I’m working on a story entitled GOING COMMANDO. It is for the ‘Handcuffs and Lace’ anthology for www.ResplendencePublishing.com
Where can our readers get your books?
www.ResplendencePublishing.com
Total-e-Bound
What formats are your books available in?
E-book and print
How can readers contact you?
Email me through my website. I love to hear from my readers and fellow authors.
Website?
http://www.catherinechernow.com/
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