Friday, November 30, 2012

Flash Fiction Challenge: Kidnapped by Pirates.

This Week's Flash Fiction Challenge: Kidnapped by Pirates.
 
Have fun!

Challenge:
- Write a quickie with the above theme
- Post at the Changeling Bar and Grill http://groups.yahoo.com/group/ChangelingPress/
- 100 to 150 words
- Everyone welcome -- come out and play!

Join the Changeling Press authors at the Bar & Grill for Flash Fiction, Excerpts and Contests -- weekly Flash Fiction Challenges are open to all Changelings, readers, and writers. Got an idea? Share! When the plot bunnies run amuck, everyone wins!

More Info:
http://changelingpress.blogspot.com/p/flash-fiction-contest.html
 
Margaret Riley
AKA Shelby Morgen
Memphis Heat 1: Stakeout
Now Available from Changeling Press
http://changelingpress.com/product.php?&upt=book&ubid=1938

Flash Fiction RoundUp: 30 November

23 November 2012 Theme
Sometimes, you have to face your past, be it someone or something. Figure out what your mistake was and deal with it. Ignoring it or trying to avoid it are not options.


Mikala Ash
CLICHES AT THE SLAVE & PET AUTION
http://groups.yahoo.com/group/ChangelingPress/message/157661
THE SPY WHO KICKED HER BOSS
(MF)
http://groups.yahoo.com/group/ChangelingPress/message/157732


Sarah Barimen
THE PAST IN THE MIRROR
(MF)
http://groups.yahoo.com/group/ChangelingPress/message/157961


Kate Hill
BEN & TYLER: STRONG MOTIVATION
(MF)
http://groups.yahoo.com/group/ChangelingPress/message/157691


Sara Jay
WEDDING BELL BLUES
(MF)
http://groups.yahoo.com/group/ChangelingPress/message/157740


BJ McCall
KILLER SURPRISE
(MF)
http://groups.yahoo.com/group/ChangelingPress/message/157717


Ayla Ruse
Excerpt: Malathix Soul
(MF)
http://groups.yahoo.com/group/ChangelingPress/message/157675
STUCK ON YOU
(MF)
http://groups.yahoo.com/group/ChangelingPress/message/157697


Megan Slayer
BREAKING UP IS HARD TO DO
(MF)
http://groups.yahoo.com/group/ChangelingPress/message/157676


Jonathan Wright
SOFTLY, FROM THE DARKNESS
(MF)
http://groups.yahoo.com/group/ChangelingPress/message/157843



Stop by the Changeling Press Bar & Grille to indulge in some steamy quickies. Each week is a new theme. http://groups.yahoo.com/group/ChangelingPress/

Thursday, November 29, 2012

New Releases 30 Nov & Win Free Books for a year!

A Very Changeling 9th Annual Christmas Contest -- Win Free Books for a year!
Nine readers will win Free Books For A Year:
One book a month (Five winners, 12 books each)
Two books a month (Two winners, 24 books each!)
Two books a week (Two winners, 104 books each!)
Are you on Changeling's Naughty list?
 
New Releases
Pandamonium by Jade Buchanan $3.99
It's every man for himself when a panda shifter meets a big, bad polar bear who plays for keeps.
Protect and Serve: Mistletoe and Whine by Sharon Maria Bidwell $4.99
It's Christmas, but alas, Sam has more to whine about than plastic mistletoe.
Holidays Are Hell: Devil Under the Mistletoe by Sam Cheever $4.49
Perdition Guide Damian is supposed to escort sexy Amanda to Hell. But he'd much rather keep her.
Spotlight: Jingle All The Way by Judy Mays $7.99
Vampires and Santas and werewolves, oh my!
Santa's Helpers: Zarakion's Tip by Ayla Ruse $2.99
Delivery tips come in all shapes and sizes.
Santa's Helpers: Wolf Run by B.J. McCall $2.99
Stella's getting her Christmas wish, fur.
Santa's Helpers: Mistletoe Mistakes by Jocelyn Michel $2.99
Braving a blizzard, MJ drives to her mountain cabin. But there's a very sexy someone already there.
Santa's Helpers: Damned Santa by Marie Treanor $2.99
Has Santa Claus really been trapped in the ruined City of the Damned?
 
Now Available at www.ChangelingPress.com
Christmas Past 99¢ Sale -- Did you miss a Changeling Christmas Past?
All Holiday Howlz, Sugarplums, and White Hot Christmas stories now only 99¢
 
And the Naughty List -- Twelve Days of Christmas winners will receive Changeling Gift Certificates for $5, $10, and $25 -- one random winner for each Christmas title on release day!
 
The best part -- all you have to do to get on Changeling's Naughty List is buy any Santa's Helpers Christmas title at www.ChangelingPress.com during the month of December and you're automatically entered to win.
 

Wednesday, November 28, 2012

The process of creating a demon

Hey y'all!

I'm hard at work at changing my Demon at the Door Flash Fic from weeks ago into a real story.

I love the concept of opening a door, and hello, demon!

My demon boy, Mal, has horns. Just wee ones. He doesn't have a tail, because that can be way more socially awkward than horns. He's well-endowed. He's hot to the touch. He's magickal in the sack. Literally.

These are a few of my favorite things, so why not include them in my story?

Who's a horny little devil?

What are your favorite demon attributes?

While we're all waiting for me to finish this particular tale, check out Keeping Score: Two Down, the second book in my demon hunter series. Boom.

Thanks for hanging out with me, y'all

XXOO

Julia

www.juliatalbot.com

Photo courtesy of Shutterstock royalty free photo service

Tuesday, November 27, 2012

Tasty Tuesday - Cookie Monster Cookies

My son called me today and asked for this recipe. He was snowbound with his three toddlers and remembered how  I used to make these when he was a kid. They are easy to adapt to any occasion and you can let the little ones cut out the shapes with cookie cutters. The original came from a church cookbook  published in 1960.

1/2 cup sugar
1/2 cup butter or margarine
2 eggs
21/2 cups flour
2 tsp baking powder
1 tsp vanilla

Preheat oven to 375degrees. Cream  sugar and butter, beat in eggs. Add dry ingredients and vanilla and beat until well mixed. Roll out and cut with cookie cutters.  Bake on greased baking sheet for 10 - 12 minutes.

Enjoy!

Anne Kane
www.AnneKane.com








Monday, November 26, 2012

Changeling's Naughty List Starts This Week!

This Week's Releases:
Pandamonium by Jade Buchanan $3.99 Coming Soon
It's every man for himself when a panda shifter meets a big, bad polar bear who plays for keeps.
Protect and Serve: Mistletoe and Whine by Sharon Maria Bidwell $4.99 Coming Soon
It's Christmas, but alas, Sam has more to whine about than plastic mistletoe.
Holidays Are Hell: Devil Under the Mistletoe by Sam Cheever $4.49 Coming Soon
Perdition Guide Damian is supposed to escort sexy Amanda to Hell. But he'd much rather keep her.
Spotlight: Jingle All The Way by Judy Mays $7.99 Coming Soon
Vampires and Santas and werewolves, oh my!
Santa's Helpers: Wolf Run by B.J. McCall $2.99 Coming Soon
Stella's getting her Christmas wish, fur.
Santa's Helpers: Zarakion's Tip by Ayla Ruse $2.99 Coming Soon
Delivery tips come in all shapes and sizes.
Santa's Helpers: Damned Santa by Marie Treanor $2.99 Coming Soon
Has Santa Claus really been trapped in the ruined City of the Damned?
Santa's Helpers: Mistletoe Mistakes by Jocelyn Michel $2.99 Coming Soon
Braving a blizzard, MJ drives to her mountain cabin. But there's a very sexy someone already there.
http://changelingpress.com/catalog.php?upt=book&ufilter=genre&uid=comingsoon 

DRB1stChp Changeling Press Mon/Sat (26 Nov)

Join Changeling Press every Monday for new release excerpts and Saturdays for excerpts from the books that started the company on D. Renee Bagby Presents First Chapters.

Posted on Monday (26 Nov):

** Wet 4: Overflow by Zenobia Renquist
(Erotic MFM Paranormal MC/IR Romance)
http://www.drb1stchp.com/2012/11/overflow-by-zenobia-renquist.html

** Warrior's Craft 4: Four GI's & a Witch by Cheryl Dragon
(Erotic MFMMM Paranormal Romance)
http://www.drb1stchp.com/2012/11/four-gis-witch-by-cheryl-dragon.html

** Tiger Fork by Saloni Quinby
(Erotic MM Shifter Romance)
http://www.drb1stchp.com/2012/11/tiger-fork-by-saloni-quinby.html

** Full Moon Heat Collection by Lia Connor
(Erotic MMF Shifter Romance)
http://www.drb1stchp.com/2012/11/the-pack-1-full-moon-heat-by-lia-connor.html

Posted on Saturday (24 Nov):

* Sating the Lust God by Kate Hill
(Erotic Vampire Romance)
http://www.drb1stchp.com/2012/11/sating-lust-god-by-kate-hill.html

* Cosmic Cops 2: Dark Ecstasy by B.J. McCall
(Erotic SciFi Adventure Romance)
http://www.drb1stchp.com/2012/11/dark-ecstasy-by-bj-mccall.html

* Beast 1: Taking Back Control by Renee George
(Erotic MM Vampire Romance)
http://www.drb1stchp.com/2012/11/taking-back-control-by-renee-george.html

* Dante's World 2: Morgan's Creed by Willa Okati
(Erotic Vampire Romance)
http://www.drb1stchp.com/2012/11/morgans-creed-by-willa-okati.html

Blast from the blog past:

** Vaaden Warriors 1: Rheul by Jessica Coulter Smith
(Erotic Futuristic SciFi Romance)
http://www.drb1stchp.com/2011/05/rheul-by-jessica-coulter-smith.html

** Inked 2: Cactus Juice by Kate Hill
(Erotic MMM Paranormal Romance)
http://www.drb1stchp.com/2011/05/cactus-juice-by-kate-hill.html

** All Wrapped Up: Branded by Ann Jacobs
(Erotic BDSM Futuristic Romance)
http://www.drb1stchp.com/2011/05/all-wrapped-up-vol-1-collection.html

** Moonlust 3: Claiming Moon by B.J. McCall
(Erotic Shifter Romance)
http://www.drb1stchp.com/2011/05/claiming-moon-by-bj-mccall.html


--
Zenobia Renquist
Discover Different and Unique Romance
http://about.me/zenobiarenquist
Caveat Emptor Series :: Three couples caught in a war have only one solution -- peace. Si vis pacem, para bellum. :: http://zenobiarenquist.com/bookshelf/caveat-emptor-series

Sunday, November 25, 2012

Excerpt: Overflow by Zenobia Renquist

Overflow
Wet, Book 4 (multi-author series)
by Zenobia Renquist

eBook BIN: 06052-01942
Genre: Erotic Paranormal Romance, Magical Creatures, Ménage (MFM), Interracial/Multicultural
Price: $4.49
Length: Novella

Between the devil and the deep.

Lulu and Hotsuma should be enjoying a happy married life but trouble continues to follow them. Masato is back and his reappearance puts Hotsuma in danger again. In exchange for his silence about his return, Masato makes an indecent proposal Lulu cannot help but accept. To make matters worse, someone else has found out about Hotsuma’s powers and is willing to end those powers, and possibly Hotsuma with them, if Lulu doesn’t meet his demands. She’s in over her head and the water is steady rising. Luck and love won’t solve the problem this time, but maybe help from an unlikely option will.

Author's Note: This book is a direct sequel to Undercurrent.

Buy Now
http://www.changelingpress.com/product.php?&upt=book&ubid=1942


Excerpt
"I hate you."
"So, is that a vote for putting everything out in the open and getting the ball rolling on the re-imprisonment of Uncle, your divorce, and the downfall of Voda?"
Her shoulders slumped, and she let her hands drop to her sides. He'd won and he knew it. She had no choice. She didn't have the power to go against the Mizuno family to protect Hotsuma and Voda. She probably never would. There was only one thing she could do.
Masato pulled the towel open and let it drop. His gaze roamed over her body as he licked his lips. "Oh, yes. I can be very distracted with you. But not yet." He glanced at the bedroom door. "Looks like Uncle is on his way back."
Lulu couldn't stop her sigh of relief but she bristled when Masato laughed.
"That's not a reprieve, sweetheart. You'll be seeing me again. When you do, I'll have you screaming with pleasure just like earlier." His laughter got louder as he walked back into the bathroom.
She snatched up her towel and wrapped it around her body before running after him and slamming the door shut.
Hotsuma entered the bedroom and frowned at her. "Lulu?"
She forced herself to smile. "Sorry. I tried to swing the door closed it and misjudged my strength. Did the phone call go okay?"
A haunted expression crossed Hotsuma's face. "Fine. The family is stressing about nothing, as usual."
"Get some sleep. You look tired."
"You too." He opened his arms.
Lulu crossed the room and embraced him with all her strength. She welcomed the feel of his arms around her, blotting out the memory of Masato and what he'd done. "I guess we've both had a busy day."
"Yes we have." He sighed and gave her a squeeze before releasing her. "Tomorrow will be even busier for me."
"Let me know if there's anything I can do to help. I am familiar with hotel management."
"Yes, you are, and you know I will. For now, I can handle it. But thank you." He kissed her forehead and then walked to the bathroom.
Lulu wanted to cry out for him to stop. She held her breath when he opened the door and walked in. When no angered yelling started, she assumed Masato had left.
Masato.
A whole-body shiver made her clutch her towel. She needed to find a way to deal with him that didn't involve sex.

Buy Now
http://www.changelingpress.com/product.php?&upt=book&ubid=1942

--
Zenobia Renquist
Discover Different and Unique Romance
http://about.me/zenobiarenquist

Saturday, November 24, 2012

Saturday Book Diver Interviews Jak from Eternity Factor by BJ McCall


Good morning and welcome to the Saturday Book Diver! Every weekend I magically dive into fictional worlds to interview fascinating characters.

It might be Saturday morning in our reality, but here in the world of Eternity Factor, it’s after dark. I’m in a dingy section of the city. The odor of smoke, gasoline and oily restaurant food taints the air. In the distance I can see the Cemetery, a high-rise complex where the vampires of this world are required to live.

A chill runs down my spine at the danger that arises from forced separation between vampires and humans. In my line of work I’ve met good vampires and bad. I’m as curious as you are about the politics of this segregated world.

In the light of a flickering streetlamp, I see that I’ve found the apartment building where I’m to meet a man name Jak. Hopefully he won’t take long to answer the door because I’m not keen on hanging around alone at night in this neighborhood.

The door opens even before I knock and I find myself facing a ruggedly handsome man with dark hair and blue eyes. He wears a T-shirt that reveals his well-muscled arms. Faded jeans cling to the muscular length of his legs.

The night just got better.

After exchanging greetings with Jak, he leads the way to his apartment. He mutters something about its crappiness and while I can’t say it’s exactly a luxury condo, I’ve seen worse.

He offers me a chair, then he kicks back on the couch, those blue eyes fixed on me. While I know he’s human, I can’t help noticing an almost vampiric intensity in his eyes. From what I’ve heard, he’s not a man who obeys the “no socializing with vampires” rule. During this interview I’m hoping to confirm the rumors.

SBD: Jak, thank you for inviting me into your home.

Jak: Thanks for coming. I know the neighborhood is a bit sketchy, especially after dark.

SBD: To start, would you explain the social structure of this world. I understand that humans and vampires are segregated?

Jak: Yeah. I guess the bloodsucking thing got out of hand a couple of decades ago. The government placed restrictions on vampires and forced them into designated zones like the Cemetery. If the Dead Souls Agency catches vampires in the human zone bad things happen.

SBD: I know this is a risky question for you to answer, but readers need to know. Do you or have you ever had a relationship with a vampire?

Jak: Being involved with a vampire is illegal. I never broke the law, uhh, not a Dead Souls law, until I met Azza. If we’re caught there are serious consequences. But she’s worth it.

[I can tell by the expression on his face that he’s deeply in love.]

SBD: I can’t imagine how painful it must be for a human and a vampire couple here. When you first saw Azza, what was your reaction to her?

Jak: I wanted her. Pure physical attraction. I couldn’t believe she picked me out of the crowd. Being with her is amazing.  By the time I found out she was a vampire I was hooked.

SBD: What’s the most dangerous thing about loving a vampire?

Jak: If the DSA catches us, Azza would be put in prison. Hard labor.  Then there is that bloodsucking thing.  I’d be crazy not to worry that things might get out of control. But, damn, the sex is good.

SBD: I believe you. Is there anything else you’d like to add before the interview ends?

Jak: I want people to know that not all vampires are fiends. Azza’s a beautiful being. She shouldn’t be forced to sneak out of the Cemetery and it shouldn’t be illegal for us to make love.

[Although this is my first time visiting this world, I know he’s telling the truth. In my travels I’ve found that like humans, vampires can be both good and bad. For this man to risk so much, Azza  must be a great woman.]

SBD: Before I go, would you give us your favorite excerpt from Eternity Factor?

Jak: Sure. I chose an excerpt that will let your readers know how I feel about Azza.

He loved being sprawled over Azza, feeling the lush curves of her amazing body. But after the flush of hot sex, his skin had cooled and Jak became aware of her lack of natural body warmth. The temperature had soared in the afternoon. With the windows closed, the apartment was as hot and airless as an oven. He stroked her arm. “Your skin is so cool.”
Azza pushed him off of her, handling him as if he weighed a few pounds. “I’m making you cold.” She rose from the bed, a pale ethereal shadow in the darkened room.
“I’m not cold.” Jak turned on the bedside lamp. A soft glow illuminated the room. “It’s hotter than hell in here. Your skin feels nice. I don’t know a lot about vampires, but you’re like ice cream on a summer afternoon.”
“I’ve been compared to a lot of things since I was turned, but never ice cream.”
Azza stood at the foot of his bed. Her muscles were sleek, her breasts high and round with lush, long nipples. Her belly was flat and her legs were long.
“You’re staring, Jak.”
His gaze slid to her face. She was smiling and the look in her eyes told him she didn’t mind being admired. And admire he did. Azza was so damn beautiful, so perfect, she stole his breath. “I like what I see.”
“I don’t disgust you?”
He rose from the bed and reached for her, drawing her close. “I like being with you. I like having sex with you. I like the coolness of your skin. I thought you liked my heat?”
“I do. You have no idea how good your cock feels inside me.”
He grinned. “Yeah, I do. Give me a few minutes to recover and I’ll show you.”

It’s hard not to be touched by an excerpt like that. Clearly these are two people who should be allowed to have a life together.

It’s time for me to take leave of Jak’s world. He escorts me to the street and gallantly volunteers to wait until the magic takes me back to my world. Unfortunately I must abide by certain rules when I travel to fictional worlds, and one is to never allow the inhabitants to watch me come and go.

Jak steps back into his building and closes the door, but our conversation stays with me. I’m curious about Azza and would like to know if they finally get their happily ever after.

If you’re curious too, check out Eternity Factor by BJ McCall.

Friday, November 23, 2012

Flash Fiction Challenge: The Past That Haunts You

This Weekend's Flash Fiction Challenge: The Past That Haunts You
 
** Sometimes, you have to face your past, be it someone or something. Figure out what your mistake was and deal with it. Ignoring it or trying to avoid it are not options. **
 

Challenge:
- Write a quickie with the above theme
- Post at the Changeling Bar and Grill http://groups.yahoo.com/group/ChangelingPress/
- 100 to 150 words
- Everyone welcome -- come out and play!

Join the Changeling Press authors at the Bar & Grill for Flash Fiction, Excerpts and Contests -- weekly Flash Fiction Challenges are open to all Changelings, readers, and writers. Got an idea? Share! When the plot bunnies run amuck, everyone wins!

More Info:
http://changelingpress.blogspot.com/p/flash-fiction-contest.html
 
 
 

Flash Fiction Roundup: 23 November

16 November 2012 Theme
You're having a drink at your favorite bar. Someone sidles up next to you and whispers in your ear "Help me out. Pretend you're my lover." What do you do?


Mikala Ash
DECOY
(MF)
http://groups.yahoo.com/group/ChangelingPress/message/157393
RULES OF THE HEART
(MF)
http://groups.yahoo.com/group/ChangelingPress/message/157526
RULES OF THE HEART PT 2
(MF)
http://groups.yahoo.com/group/ChangelingPress/message/157579


Sarah Barimen
PRETEND LOVER
(MF)
http://groups.yahoo.com/group/ChangelingPress/message/157434


Vicki Burklund (Changeling Editor)
HOMECOMING
(MM)
http://groups.yahoo.com/group/ChangelingPress/message/157467
HELP!
(MF)
http://groups.yahoo.com/group/ChangelingPress/message/157498


Sam Cheever
FOR GOD AND COUNTRY
(MF)
http://groups.yahoo.com/group/ChangelingPress/message/157413


Renee George
SOLDIER IN THE ELEVATOR
(MF)
http://groups.yahoo.com/group/ChangelingPress/message/157459


Kate Hill
BEN & TYLER: A PEEK AT THE PAST
(MM)
http://groups.yahoo.com/group/ChangelingPress/message/157483


Sara Jay
FREE RIDE
(MF)
http://groups.yahoo.com/group/ChangelingPress/message/157533


B.J. McCall
SUZI'S SURPRISE
(MF)
http://groups.yahoo.com/group/ChangelingPress/message/157391


Cynthia Sax
DEMON PARTNER (featuring characters from Speed Demon)
(MM)
http://groups.yahoo.com/group/ChangelingPress/message/157601


Megan Slayer
FORGIVEN PT2
(MM)
http://groups.yahoo.com/group/ChangelingPress/message/157540


Jonathan Wright
IN THE SPIRIT OF COMPETITION
(MF)
http://groups.yahoo.com/group/ChangelingPress/message/157552



Stop by the Changeling Press Bar & Grille to indulge in some steamy quickies. Each week is a new theme. http://groups.yahoo.com/group/ChangelingPress/

Thursday, November 22, 2012

Black Friday Cyber-Sale and New Releases!

The Environmentally Friendly Black Friday Cyber-Sale at www.ChangelingPress.com !
Cyber Friday/Black Monday Because We're Changeling And We Can Sale.
10% off anything you can fit in your Changeling Cyber Shopping cart, all weekend long. Discount Code: CyberFriday2012.

New Releases
Wet: Overflow by Zenobia Renquist $4.49Between the devil and the deep...
Tiger Fork by Saloni Quinby $3.99Will Han and his gorgeous beast be forced to destroy each other?
Warrior's Craft: Four GI’s & A Witch by Cheryl Dragon $4.49To reverse a siren's curse will take trust, cunning, love, sex, spells, and a really big cage!
Full Moon Heat (Collection) by Lia Connor $8.99Feel the power of the Pack. Come on, come on, come and get some.
 
 
1¢ Sale
The Pridelands 1: Darren's Surprise by Jade Buchanan
Durai Steinsson has come to claim his mate. He won't let anything get in his way. Not even Darren.
Shopping for other Cyber-Shoppers? Get your favorite Changelings a Changeling Press Gift Certificate (See: How do I buy a gift Certificate?)
 
Are you on Changeling's Naughty list? Santa's Helpers are coming to Changeling -- it's almost time for our 9th Annual A Very Changeling Christmas Contest Win Free Books For A Year contest, coming in December.
 
Happy Thanksgiving!
 

Tuesday, November 20, 2012

Tasty Tuesday - Carrot Souffle


Before you turn your nose up, I have to tell you this dish is not what you'd expect. Despite the healthy dose of carrots, there is enough sugar to almost declare this vegetable a dessert. I first fell in love with this souffle at a popular southern restaurant called Picadilly's. After much searching and failed attempts to replicate, I found this recipe a few years ago, and it's now a mainstay in my recipe notebook. 

This recipe is also very helpful with all the bunnies running around Changeling. ;-)

Serve this as a delicious side dish at your Thanksgiving meal this week and trust me, it'll go fast!

Carrot Souffle

Ingredients:

1 3/4 pounds peeled carrots
 3/4  cup of granulated sugar
1 1/2 teaspoons baking powder
1 1/2 teaspoons vanilla extract
2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
3 large eggs, lightly whipped
1/4 pound butter (or margarine) softened at room temperature (not melted)
powdered sugar


Directions:

1. Cut carrots into 1-inch or smaller pieces. Put in a cooking pot and add water until the carrots are covered 2 - 3 inches.
2. Boil 30 to 45 minutes or until you can easily pierce the pieces with a fork. Drain well.
3. With a potato masher or fork, mash warm carrots. You don't want to puree them, but mashing them as much as possible is the goal.
4. Add the granulated sugar, baking powder and vanilla to the carrots.
3. Whip together thoroughly.
4. Add the flour and mix well.
5. Add the beaten eggs to the mixture and blend well. Continue to use the whip
6. Add the softened butter and blend well.
7. Pour the mixture into a lightly buttered baking or casserole dish.
8. Bake, uncovered, at 350 degrees for about 1 hour or until the edges begin to darken.
9. Let sit 2 - 3 minutes, then sprinkle powdered sugar over the top. 

Best served warm.

Enjoy - and have a wonderful and Happy Thanksgiving!
~Ayla

Ayla Ruse
Ensnare yourself in love
http://www.aylaruse.com

Monday, November 19, 2012

DRB1stChp Changeling Press Mon/Sat (19 November)

Join Changeling Press every Monday for new release excerpts and Saturdays for excerpts from the books that started the company on D. Renee Bagby Presents First Chapters.

Posted on Monday (19 Nov):

** Razor's Edge: Office Work by Ayla Ruse
(Erotica Voyeurism/Exhibitionism Multi-Partner Contemporary Romance)
http://www.drb1stchp.com/2012/11/office-work-by-ayla-ruse.html

** Protect and Serve: Speed Demon by Cynthia Sax
(Erotic MM Futuristic Paranormal Suspense Romance)
http://www.drb1stchp.com/2012/11/speed-demon-by-cynthia-sax.html

** Memphis Heat 1: Stakeout by Shelby Morgen and Marteeka Karland
(Erotic MF Shifter Voyeurism/Exhibitionism Romance)
http://www.drb1stchp.com/2012/11/stakeout-by-shelby-morgen-and-marteeka.html

** Broken Wings Part One by Stephanie Burke
(Erotic MM Dark Fantasy Romance)
http://www.drb1stchp.com/2012/11/broken-wings-part-1-by-stephanie-burke.html

Posted on Saturday (17 Nov):

** Polanski Brothers: Home of Eternal Rest by Dakota Cassidy
(Erotic MF Vampire Romance)
http://www.drb1stchp.com/2012/11/polanski-brothers-home-of-eternal-rest.html

** Possession Obsession by Ciarra Sims
(Erotic BBW BDSM Paranormal Romance)
http://www.drb1stchp.com/2012/11/possession-obsession-by-ciarra-sims.html

** Telesians 1: The Siren's Challenge by Alice Gaines
(Erotic MF Futuristic/SciFi Adventure Romance)
http://www.drb1stchp.com/2012/11/the-sirens-challenge-by-alice-gaines.html

** Freedom 1: Freedom Rising by Willa Okati
(Erotic MM Vampire Romance)
http://www.drb1stchp.com/2012/11/freedom-rising-by-willa-okati.html

Blast from the blog past:

** Cirque Caprice 2: Tumbling by Julia Talbot
(Erotic MMF BBW Paranormal Romance)
http://www.drb1stchp.com/2011/05/tumbling-by-julia-talbot.html

** Cafe Midnight: Chamomile Nights by Zenobia Renquist
(Erotic MF IR Paranormal Romance)
http://www.drb1stchp.com/2011/05/chamomile-nights-by-zenobia-renquist.html

** Shifter's Galaxy 1: Accommodating Desire by Silvia Violet
(Erotic BDSM MMF Shifter SciFi Romance)
http://www.drb1stchp.com/2011/05/accommodating-desire-by-silvia-violet.html

** Dragos 4: Inflamed by Amber Kallyn
(Erotic MF Dragon Romance)
http://www.drb1stchp.com/2011/05/inflamed-by-amber-kallyn.html

--
Zenobia Renquist
Discover Different and Unique Romance
http://about.me/zenobiarenquist
Caveat Emptor Series :: Three couples caught in a war have only one solution -- peace. Si vis pacem, para bellum. :: http://zenobiarenquist.com/bookshelf/caveat-emptor-series

Saturday, November 17, 2012

Saturday Book Diver Interviews Captain Sterling Tristam from the Raven’s Crew series by Ashlynn Monroe


There’s something about the title “Captain” that conjures all sorts of sexy images -- a proud military leader, a dangerous pirate or a man as wild and exciting as the galaxies he’s explored in outer space. It’s hard not to fantasize about being the captain’s soulmate.

Good morning and welcome to the Saturday Book Diver! Every weekend I magically dive into fictional worlds to bring you interviews with fascinating heroes, heroines and villains from erotic romance.

Today I’m aboard the spaceship The Raven, captained by a man as powerful as he is handsome--Sterling Tristam. I’m seated in his quarters right now, where he’s agreed to answer a few questions. At the moment he’s busy on the bridge, but I don’t mind waiting. With all the danger in his world, I feel safer knowing that he’s on top of his game.

It’s not long before he enters the room. I rise and he shakes my hand then gestures for me to return to my seat. He sits on the chair behind his desk. His brow knits, as if he has a lot on his mind. No doubt he does.

SBD: Captain Tristam, I know you’re a very busy man and I appreciate you taking the time for this interview.

Captain Tristam: It’s my pleasure to speak to you.  Welcome aboard The Raven, as long as you aren’t with the Battalion you’re welcome on my ship anytime.

SBD: Thank you very much, Captain. I’d like to start by having you give us some background information about the state of your world and the purpose of you and your crew.

Captain Tristam: We’re rebels—smugglers, I started out believing the lies the Battalion spread about how they were going to make the world a better place, but when my wife and son died I knew I had to do what was right and leave the military.  I’ve been the captain of the Raven ever since.  Esta, she’s my right hand woman.  She and I have been through hell and back together.  My gunner is also the woman I love.  Raylin was brought on board as a teenager after her parents sold her for enough money to keep their younger kids alive a little longer.  She’s one of the few Galinian telepaths left in the universe.  It took me a long time to see she’d grown up, but when I did I belonged to her completely. Owen is a helluva mechanic and Doc’s a deserter from the Battalion military hospital.  He knows his stuff but he’s not a real doctor.  Zolly keeps the bird in the air, but he’s a terrible shot.  I’m glad he’s our pilot and not the gunner. We’re fighting for what’s right—for freedom.

SBD: Sounds like an amazing crew. I’m sure there’s never a dull moment on The Raven. Raylin sounds particularly interesting. What exactly is your relationship with her?

[I can’t help noticing that at every mention of Raylin, an indiscernible emotion flashes through Tristam’s blue eyes.]

Captain Tristam: She’s my soul.  I wanted to protect her when she was younger, but one day I opened my eyes and she was a woman.  I refused to let myself think of Star Shine that way, but when I tried to leave her behind for her own good she turned the tables on me and made me see how grownup she really was.  That woman’s been through a lot, but she’s never lost what makes her real.  Damn.  I don’t know how to explain our relationship.  We fight like cats and dogs, but at the end of the day she’s the most amazing thing I’ve found in the whole universe and she’s mine.  I’m a lucky man.

SBD: Does Raylin’s telepathic abilities make a relationship with her more difficult or less?

Captain Tristam: Much more difficult. You can’t hide what you feel from a telepath.  Her ability comes in handy during a firefight when there’s no time to talk, but it can be hell on the day-to-day living stuff.

SBD: Commander Bartholomew Tristam. Tell us about him.

Captain Tristam: [At the mention of his brother, Tristam’s expression turns deadly.]
He’s a bastard.  My own brother had my wife and infant son killed.  I can’t think of a better definition of soul less evil than that.  He hates telepaths with his whole heart and soul. Sort of makes having a family reunion a bit awkward since my woman is one.

[It seems all the alarming  rumors I’ve heard about Bartholomew Tristam are true. With my next question I hope to confirm disturbing reports about another man in the Captain’s world. ]

SBD: From what I’ve gathered, Bartholomew isn’t your only enemy. What can you disclose to us about the alien lord Xever?

He’s not someone to mess around with.  He’s a consciousness that inhabits bodies.  Hell, he’s probably the most powerful think in our whole galaxy.  The bastards in love with my woman too.  He’s partial to me, but damn it if he isn’t fixated on Raylin.  It’s hard to fight something with powers a human can’t fully comprehend.

[The idea of  someone with the ability to take over another person’s body is unsettling to say the least. After hearing about the kind of people Captain Tristam and his crew have been dealing with, I have to respect their resilience.]

SBD: Before I leave you to your duties, is there something I haven’t touched on that you’d like to talk about?

Captain Tristam: What Raylin and I have been through is epic.  We’ve had to fight every day for the right to live.  It makes holding each other sweeter, but it’s been a damn hard way to travel.

SBD: Last but not least, would you provide readers with one of your favorite excerpts from the Raven’s Crew series?

Laser blasts hit the steel doors ahead of her. The reverberation made her head
feel as if it might explode. Skidding to a halt, Raylin Fabian watched the metal bubble
and melt where the coin-sized blasts hit. Each of the numerous deadly projectiles
missed her by just inches. Thank God that traitorous bastard is such a bad shot!
She couldn’t hear her captain beside her anymore. Together they’d turned down
the corridor a moment ago. Raylin paused just long enough to look for Captain Sterling
Tristam, the man she’d flown with for the last decade, the only person she truly trusted.
Tristam wasn’t behind her. Panic rose like bile in her throat, making it hard to breathe.
Her heart pounded painfully. Raylin bit her lip, resisting the urge to scream his name.
Cap wouldn’t just leave her. He was -- he was the only noble man she’d ever met in
Free Space.

She turned and climbed back down the spindly metal ladder, leaving the crew
quarters. The only sound was her feet against the floor as she raced down the long unlit
corridor, turning again, almost making it to her destination. The sound of running
brought her up short and she paused to look for some place to hide on the enemy craft.
Turning again, off course and further from escape, she rushed down another hallway.
Seeing the cargo crates, Raylin rushed towards them and managed to wedge her
small body in the shadows between them, obscuring her slight form in the dark place
between two large containers standing nestled next to the wall. She held her breath.
Three men in Galaxy Battalion uniforms ran past her.

Damn it, Cap! I told you this was a trap.

Fuck. A produce transport out of Battalion-controlled space was too good to be
true. The second freedom war had been raging a full two years, and this time it was all
or nothing. The rebels would die before they agreed to peace after what the Battalion
army had done to them last time. They should have known. Food that good never made
it to the refugee camps, even if the majority of those refugees were helpless children.
Sterling, why do you have to be the one to answer every time someone needs a hero? She
should be glad he was, or she’d have been screwed, but right now, the endearing trait
was pissing her off.

The long narrow corridor was quiet now. Two turns and she’d be back at the
airlock. She’d press a button and Esta would send the shuttle for her. She’d have to
endure running ten feet across the flimsy emergency connector, nothing but two inches
of plastic between her delicate flesh and the vacuum of space, but she’d do it to get the
hell off this ship.

But she couldn’t leave without her Cap. She’d never leave him behind.
Tenuously, she worked herself out of the claustrophobia-inducing hiding nook
and scanned the path in both directions. Her way was clear. Now to pick a direction,
Raylin closed her eyes a moment and focused. Cap. Where are you?

Nothing. She had no sense of where he was -- no connection to him. Not a good
sign. She should be able to feel him. He needed her, she was sure of that fact. The
urgency she felt told her the powers she’d long suppressed were roaring to life.
Survival. The Galinian telepathy she’d pushed away for a decade hadn’t left her
as she’d hoped. She could feel the crew’s panic on Raven. Cap wasn’t back. He hadn’t
left her behind. Equal measures of relief and terror surged through Raylin. Cap! Her
mind sent the call without her conscious thought.

Leave me. Get away

She gasped. His returned thoughts were so weak. Sterling Tristam was a lot of
things -- privateer, rebel, freedom fighter -- but never weak. Help me find you. What
happened back there?

No… run!

Damn it, Cap, I’m not leaving without you. You wouldn’t leave me. I can’t live -- live
with myself if you die here. Cap, tell me or I’m just going to go looking.
Fuckin’ telepathy! I’m not getting off this ship alive, Raylin. Bartholomew paid Crandel
to set us up. I’m so sorry, Star Shine. Get off this bird!

Oh, it was bad. He hadn’t called her Star Shine in years. Sorrow filled her. No!

I’m on the cargo deck and I’m climbing to the crew quarters again now.

Go back. Press your emergency beacon. Esta will get you home.

There is no home for me without you, Cap.

She’s going to be yours, the Raven. Esta knows, she’s your ship now. You deserve her
more than anybody I know, even Esta. I’m sorry, Ray.

Don’t you fucking die on me, Cap. We’re a team. I’m at the kitchenette. Should I go right
or left?

Stubborn little girl, don’t you do this to me. I won’t let you die for me.

We all die someday. You’re dying for your war. I might as well die for you.

I’m in the corridor ahead of you. Take a right, then a left. Keep your head down, kid.

They’re coming back. I killed the one who shot me, but more are coming. I tried to get them off your tail, Star Shine. I wanted you to escape. I’m so sorry I didn’t listen to you about Crandel.

We should’ve left him on that rotting rock Alpha-Nine.

She followed his directions carefully, but still didn’t see him.

“I’m here,” Captain Tristam whispered loudly.

Raylin turned and saw him then, pressed up against the water recycling pipes.
He was holding his stomach, blood seeping between his fingers. “Oh, Cap,” she cried.

“Press your beacon, send the distress signal. What’s going on over there? I know
you can feel it.”

We’d better be quiet. Here, sorry, it’s bad isn’t it? Crandel radioed over and told Esta we
were staying for a drink. She knew right away that wasn’t right. The idiot has no idea how much you mean to that woman. She put her arm around her captain and pressed the button.

Esta already knew they were in danger. Raylin had felt the woman’s fear earlier.
Cap was heavy. Slowly they made their way down the corridor. They’d be easy
to track -- the blood drops were a dead giveaway.

Yeah, it’s bad. Esta is amazing.

You set the pace, whatever you can handle, but we need to hurry.

Bossy woman. She could feel his humor. Thanks for coming for me, but damn it, I’ll
kill you if you die. I have a responsibility to you, kid.

She hated it when he called her kid. She’d just turned twenty-six. Then the sound
of laser blasts distracted her. Ahead she saw Owen and Zolly. They’d come. Relief filled
her. Neither of them was great with a firearm, but they’d die for Cap. He just inspired
that in people.

Raylin cried out as pain radiated through her side. Her body crumpled and Cap
toppled with her. Glancing down, she saw the massive wound. A rather disturbingly
large chunk of her body appeared vaporized. She whimpered, unable to help herself.
She’d be good to her word. It was time to die for Cap.

Looking back she saw him struggling to hold his body together. Clearly the blast
he’d suffered had sliced him up badly. She didn’t realize she was crying until she felt
the cold tickle as tears trailed down her face.

With his free hand, he reached out to her and she took her beloved captain’s
hand. Above them laser fire blasted, but now it didn’t matter. The damage was done.

“I’m sorry, Star Shine,” Captain Tristam whispered.

“I love you, Sterling, always have, always will. I wish… I wish you’d seen me as
a woman.”

“Damn it, you’re going to tell me this now? I’ve worked so hard to ignore how
much of a woman you are. You -- you’re special, Star Shine, far too good for the likes of
me. You deserve someone who’ll be able to give you a soft life with sweet words.”

“I never wanted that. I only wanted you.” His face was becoming blurry.

Everything was growing dark. She closed her eyes.

“Star Shine!” He squeezed her hand but she couldn’t respond. “Raylin!”
Darkness won.

SBD: Wow! That was exciting!

After once again shaking his hand and thanking him for the interview, I’m ready to leave the world of Captain Sterling Tristam. After what I’ve heard about men like Bartholomew and Xerver, I can’t say I would like to linger. Still, at another time I would like to return to this world and perhaps speak to Raylin and maybe even Bartholomew and Xerver. It would be risky, but worth it to bring readers the villains’ side of this outer space saga.

Until next time, happy reading!

Want to know more about the Raven’s Crew series and Ashlynn Monroe?
Visit

Friday, November 16, 2012

Flash Fiction Challenge: Temporary Lover

** You're having a drink at your favorite bar. Someone sidles up next to you and whispers in your ear "Help me out. Pretend you're my lover." What do you do? **
 
Challenge:
- Write a quickie with the above theme
- Post at the Changeling Bar and Grill http://groups.yahoo.com/group/ChangelingPress/
- 100 to 150 words
Everyone welcome -- come out and play!

Join the Changeling Press authors at the Bar & Grill for Flash Fiction, Excerpts and Contests -- weekly Flash Fiction Challenges are open to all Changelings, readers, and writers. Got an idea? Share! When the plot bunnies run amuck, everyone wins!

More Info:
http://changelingpress.blogspot.com/p/flash-fiction-contest.html
 
 
 
Margaret Riley
AKA Shelby Morgen
Memphis Heat 1: Stakeout
Now Available from Changeling Press
http://changelingpress.com/product.php?&upt=book&ubid=1938

Flash Fiction Roundup 16 November

09 November 2012 Theme
To earn some much needed cash, you've taken your first gig as a stripper. You prep. You practice. You go to the wrong house. What happens next?


Mikala Ash
I LIKE IT BOTH WAYS
(MF)
http://groups.yahoo.com/group/ChangelingPress/message/157030
PEASANT TAKE OUT
(MF)
http://groups.yahoo.com/group/ChangelingPress/message/157062
PEASANT TAKE OUT II: THE PLAN
(MF)
http://groups.yahoo.com/group/ChangelingPress/message/157072
PEASANT TAKE OUT III: THE OGRE
(MF)
http://groups.yahoo.com/group/ChangelingPress/message/157138
PEASANT TAKE OUT IV: THE MESSAGE... WHAT MESSAGE?
(MF)
http://groups.yahoo.com/group/ChangelingPress/message/157230
PEASANT TAKE OUT V: THE MAIN COURSE
(MF)
http://groups.yahoo.com/group/ChangelingPress/message/157262
PEASANT TAKE OUT VI: DIRE STRAITS
(MF)
http://groups.yahoo.com/group/ChangelingPress/message/157289
FLASH FICTION PLOT BUNNY CLAIMS ANOTHER VICTIM
(MM)
http://groups.yahoo.com/group/ChangelingPress/message/157290


Sarah Barimen
THE WRONG -- ER, RIGHT -- STRIPPER
(MF)
http://groups.yahoo.com/group/ChangelingPress/message/157252


Kate Hill
BEN & TYLER: FOR ME ALONE
(MM)
http://groups.yahoo.com/group/ChangelingPress/message/157056


Sara Jay
TAKE IT OFF
(MF)
http://groups.yahoo.com/group/ChangelingPress/message/157079


Ayla Ruse
LAP DANCE
(MF)
http://groups.yahoo.com/group/ChangelingPress/message/157259


Cynthia Sax
THE WRONG STRIPPER
(MF)
http://groups.yahoo.com/group/ChangelingPress/message/157064


Megan Slayer
WE'VE BEEN WAITING FOR YOU
(MM)
http://groups.yahoo.com/group/ChangelingPress/message/157192
RING MY BELL (Love in an Elevator Theme)
(MF)
http://groups.yahoo.com/group/ChangelingPress/message/157190



Stop by the Changeling Press Bar & Grille to indulge in some steamy quickies. Each week is a new theme. http://groups.yahoo.com/group/ChangelingPress/

Thursday, November 15, 2012

New Releases: 15 November

New Releases:
Memphis Heat 1: Stakeout by Shelby Morgen and Marteeka Karland $3.49Partners who have each other's backs can share anything but the one thing he needs to share the most...
Protect and Serve: Speed Demon by Cynthia Sax $3.49Temptation wears a crisp blue uniform and carries a police baton.
Broken Wings: Part One by Stephanie Burke $4.49After heartbreak and betrayal, two wounded souls will fix their broken wings and learn to fly again.
Razor's Edge: Office Work by Ayla Ruse $2.49This office demands full participation.
Now Available at http://ChangelingPress.com
1¢ Sale:
Rite Men for Maya by Zenobia Renquist
Sometimes fishing for love requires two lures.
Full Moon Heat by Lia Connor
BBW Dashika's enough woman for two good men, and tonight's her lucky night.
10% off any order at www.ChangelingPress.com -- weekly discount code in your Changeling Insider. Free Encounters available in our EZine, the Cheeky Changeling.
 
Are you on Changeling's Naughty list? Santa's Helpers are coming to Changeling -- it's almost time for our 9th Annual A Very Changeling Christmas Contest Win Free Books For A Year contest, coming in December.
 

Wednesday, November 14, 2012

Now Available at ARe, BN, and Amazon

New Releases:
Protect and Serve: Hoofin' It to the Altar by Silvia Violet $4.99
https://www.allromanceebooks.com/product-hoofin039ittothealtarprotectandserve-997893-142.html
 
 
 
 
Rite Men for Maya by Zenobia Renquist
Sometimes fishing for love requires two lures.
10% off any order at www.ChangelingPress.com -- weekly discount code in the Changeling Insider. Free Encounters available in our EZine, the Cheeky Changeling.
 
Are you on Changeling's Naughty list? Santa's Helpers are coming to Changeling -- it's almost time for our 9th Annual A Very Changeling Christmas Contest Win Free Books For A Year contest, coming in December.