Thursda Thrill Winner! Sunbathing or Something...

I've got this week's Thursday Thrill! winner!

Mandy Leigh B. said...
"No skimping on the sunscreen... "Little Hunk" got a bit toasty last time."

Mandy Leigh B! Come on down! Email me at celia.kyle AT gmail.com with the name and format of your choice of Changeling Press's e-book releases.

Thanks!

Ce

PS. Audrey M! You won during the week of the pool boys! Drop me a line lady! I've got a book to give ya!

Thursday Thrill! Sunbathing or something...

Woot! He's sunbathing or something... You tell ME! Post a caption for today's piccie and be entered to win a Changeling e-book of your choice. How hard can it be? (*snerk*)

Ce

PS. Audrey M! Email me so I can send you the e-book of your choice, lady! You won the "Pool boys make good floats" Thursday Thrill and I'm itching to give you a book. :D

*Snerk* Not Caught Yet!!

So, um, they haven't caught me yet. Mwhahahaha! Here's the coupon code for this week. Good for 5% off your order. How frucking cool is that? I know, right?

07OCT21

Ta Da!

Ce

Thursday Thrill Winner!

Ooh! I've got the name of the Thursday Thrill winner in my hot little, um, mind? LOL

snarky! With the following comment:

Blondie: Are you sure this will dry my nails faster?
Pec Boy: Trust me.

snarky, email me off-list at celia.kyle AT gmail.com and let me know which Changleing Press e-book you'd like as well as which format and we'll get it out to you asap.

Thanks!!!

Celia

Thursday Thrill ~ It's Around Here...

Baybee! Ooh yeah, I got some half-nekkid manlyness for ya? You think you're ready for it?

Come up with a sassy, sexy, funny, or absurb caption for the above piccie and post a comment giving us your creative genius. We'll pick one commenter and they'll win the e-book download of their choice. How sweet is that? I know, right?

So what are you waiting for? Comment already. But get your comments in before five tomorrow, cause that's when we'll be choosing a winner. Hop to it!

Ce

Tomorrow, Tomorrow...

Is it wrong of me to title my post after a very famous song from a very famous children's movie on an Erotic Romance publisher blog? Probably. But, dammit, I just don't care. Why?

BECAUSE TOMORROW Tri Me IS OUT!!!

Woo-to-the-oot!

And how about a little 70's porn theme music? Bow, chick, bow bow.... You know what I'm talkin' bout baby... <- Said in my deepest Barry White-esque voice. So, yeah, I'm just bouncing around, waiting for the release... counting down the hours and minutes... Here's the blurb: Eric D’Amore is back and still struggling to pair Extraordinaries and Normals together. Good thing his next trio already shares a bit of history, otherwise his job would be nearly impossible.

Two men, one woman and some yummy man loving… What more could a woman ask for?

Lara Kinley is a schoolteacher by day and a waitress at TJ’s, the local Animali Extraordinary bar, by night. Everyone has to make sacrifices to get what they want, but will Lara’s sacrifices result in her dreams coming true and her wildest fantasies fulfilled?

Theo and Jackson are partners in love and life, but both of them feel something is missing. It takes the prodding of Eric D’Amore and an order from the Office of Kink and Karma for them to admit their desire for a woman in their lives to each other. Once they understand and accept the other’s needs, they embark on seducing and capturing Lara as their own. But can she open her heart to these two men and allow their love for her to solve all her problems?

And now (drum roll please....) a sneak peak at the opening chapter, just for ya'll:

****

A slim, cool hand slid around Eric’s cock, pulling him awake with its slow, even strokes. His voice, gravely from sleep, called out the owner’s name. “Melani.”

She melded to him, pressing her breasts into his side, resting her head on his shoulder as her fingers worked their magic. Propping his arms behind his head, he relaxed under her touch. Sure, they’d decided to end their relationship for their own reasons, but damn, she knew which places to stroke.

“Eric, I’ve missed you.”

Her voice, a seductive purr, shot straight to his cock. She began snaking down his abdomen, skin slithering against skin, but he grabbed her shoulders, stopping her descent. “Not this time, Lani. We’ll both get our pleasure.”

Smiling and with a grace born of her years spent dancing, she climbed atop him, settling her moist, hot core over his cock. Her lithe, lean form, with its trim hips and deeply tanned skin, rose above him. Her dark brown hair cascaded around her shoulders in large curls.

Sliding his hands along her outer thighs, he squeezed and kneaded the firm flesh. Melani kept herself fit and trim; tight muscle covered every inch of her from head to toe and not a bit of fat or flab could be seen. She truly was the ideal woman for anyone but him. But here she was, in his house and in his bed, ready and willing.

Melani’s bare pussy slid along his cock, spreading her cream all over him as she moved. The warm, wet heat teased him, but he needed more. Grasping her hips, he controlled her motions. Back and forth, back and forth, over and over he moved her as he desired. She moaned her appreciation of his control. Each time the head of his cock slid near her opening, he barely resisted the urge to plunge into her depths. Each time he nudged her clit, she cried out in pleasure.

Melani pressed her hips down on his, slowing his movements, but increasing the friction. Having had enough of teasing her, he raised her hips up, poising his cock at her entrance and pressing into her slightly.

“Yes, oh God, yes!”

In one forceful thrust, Eric embedded his cock deep within Melani’s heat until her smooth, cream-slicked skin pressed against his groin. They lay joined, their breathing heavy as seconds ticked by, Eric giving her pussy a chance to adjust to his size. It had been a long time since they’d fucked.

****

Yeah, I'm a tease, but you love me anyway, right? Right?

Ce ;)

PS. Wanna get 5% off your order... Lean closer and I'll tell ya how. We gotta keep this on the down low though cause I don't want "the powers that be" catching wind of this and, well, you don't want to know what will happen. Here's a coupon code good for the entire week... 07OCT14 Just don't tell'em where you got it, okay?

Thursday Thrill: Pool boys make good floats.

Come up with a funny, sexy, naughty, silly, or whatever caption for this week's Thursday Thrill and win a free e-book from Changeling Press! Just leave your comment today and tomorrow. Winner will be announced in the Bar & Grill Friday night.

Bow, Chicka, Bow Bow ~ October Ezine!

Woot! Yesterday, the October Changeling Ezine was released and O. M. G! There are:

-Four NEW Encounters (by Celia Kyle, Jade Buchanan, Alice Gaines and BJ McCall)
-An interview with Marteeka (Teeka) Karland by Emma Ray Garrett
-At The Movies: 3:10 to Yuma by Isabella Jordan
-Falling into the Season by Mary Winter
-Facts of Life by daheap
-A new contest

Okay, so, what are you waiting for? Get over there already!

Ce

The final installments in the first of the "Viva Los Regalos" titles are available now!!

Kai and Lucas are taking a much needed vacation, and finding out that delving into their fantasies is more exciting and helpful than they ever imagined in "Viva Los Regalos: The Luxy Lady"!

Wanna know what happens when you pair up a Fury and a human cop and set them on the trail of a killer? Steaming hot sensuality and a great caper too! Let Lena Austin show you how it's done in Los Regalos in "Beware the Fury"!





And don't forget, the lovely ladies of Los Regalos are throwing a bang-up drawing! Use the discount code vivalosregalos when your purchase any Changeling book- now through October 17, 2007- and you'll be entered into the drawing for a grand prize $20 Changeling Press gift credit! Two runners up will receive 1-$10 gift credit each and Lena Austin will select a third lucky entrant to receive a plush teddy and rainbow fashion boa from her!

We hope you have as much fun in Los Regalos as we had creating it! Good luck and hot reading!

Thursday Thrill: What's under that blanket?

Come up with a funny, sexy, naughty, silly, or whatever caption for this week's Thursday Thrill and win a free e-book from Changeling Press! Just leave your comment today and tomorrow. Winner will be announced in the Bar & Grill Friday night.

Swan Song & M Strikes Again!

Okay, for those of you not signed up for the Changeling Press readers loop... get there, seriously. M (owner of Changeling) is losing her mind and going crazy with discount codes. Marketing is going to kick her rear, but in the mean time...


Marie Treanor has a new Hot Flash out titled Swan Song:

When you find yourself confiding in a swan, you know you’re in trouble. When the swan talks back, madness clearly beckons. Throw in a fool of a fiancé about to be dumped, a Russian gangster, and a lustful ballet dancer with tights to die for, and the night becomes strangely magical…

In honor of Marie's sexy swan, M threw out a new coupon code. Here's what she sent out to the loops:


I was poking around in the Coming Soon folder for something to get into and found the most wonderful surprise -- a gorgeous hunk of a -- SWAN! Swan shape shifters?? OK. Had to read it. Let me tell you, Marie Treanor is one wickedly twisted woman. Naturally I had to share. Man, I love my job.


New Hot Flash now available: Swan Song by Marie Treanor $2.99

And just for all you insomniacs up keeping me company, I made a new discount code:
Swan Song -- 5% off any one order, no matter how many books you stuff in the cart. Good till the marketing staff catches me playing with their codes again...


Has she lost her mind? Probably. We've corrupted her with all of our off-the-wall ideas chock full of sex and she's lost what little sanity she had left. Take advantage of it while you can!


Ce

It's Michele and Isy's turn!!

Everything that happens in Los Regalos, stays in Los Regalos. We guarantee it!

The Ropacabana is the hottest BDSM club in Los Regalos, and their star is the most sought after show girl in town. Toss in a bit of fine print and a sexy bouncer, and Isabella's tale is sure to heat you up and leave you begging for more :)


Mix one part wealthy, but sheltered woman, and one long-lived, seductive demon. Add some inhibition and a lot of lust. Serve shaken, not stirred. "Virgin's Kiss" is a smooth, heady drink of carnal desire and is sure to be a hit with Los Regalos visitors!

Thursday Thrill: How do you feel about rope burn?

Come up with a funny, sexy, naughty, silly, or whatever caption for this week's Thursday Thrill and win a free e-book from Changeling Press! Just leave your comment today and tomorrow. Winner will be announced in the Bar & Grill Friday night.

Welcome to Los Regalos: Where fantasies become reality, anonymity guaranteed!


Changeling Press's newest multi-author series, "Viva Los Regalos" debuts today! Follow Maxine's high-jinx and erotic adventures in Renee George's "Double Down"

And don't miss Lexxie Couper's "Kat and Mouse". Be there with Kat, and her Mouse, as they make their way through a full-speed, sensual caper in the only place on Earth where paranormals are the norm and humans are just vacationers!

Thursday Thrill: Where's the Soap?

All right, readers! Come up with a funny, sexy, naughty, silly, or whatever caption for this week's Thursday Thrill and win a free e-book from Changeling Press! Just leave your comment today and tomorrow. Winner will be announced in the Bar & Grill Friday night.

New Feature Starting Next Week!

Drop by the blog every Thursday for our new feature: THURSDAY THRILLS. We will post a sexy photo and YOU will post a caption: funny, sexy, crazy, or naughty. We'll pick our favorite and the prize is winner's choice of a free e-book from Changeling Press. The winner of our Thursday Thrill will be announced at Changeling Press's 24-hour party at the Bar & Grill, which opens every Friday night!

Now, for a taste of yum...

Look for NEXT Thursday's Blog!

Thanks to everyone who has dropped by to give us yummy recipes. Drop by NEXT Thursday to see what thrills we have in store!

Don't forget to check out Changeling Press's newest releases. CLICK HERE!

Michele :-)

MySpace

For those who like to follow authors on MySpace, I have a new page there:

http://myspace.com/elizabeth_jewell

Check it out!

Enjoy!

Winner of Recipe Thursday!

A big thank-you to Maria, who dropped by our blog and gave us the only, and therefore the WINNING, recipe.

---

Coconut Icy
http://www.ricanrecipes.com/recipes/detail.php?category_id=10&id=44

1/2 can evaporated milk
1/2 can coconut milk
1/4 cup sugar
1 tsp. vanilla
1 egg yolk
Cinammon to taste
Directions
Mix evaporated milk, coconut milk, sugar, vanilla, egg yolk and cinammon in a bowl.

Add additional sugar and cinammon to taste.

Pour in plastic glasses or ice trays.

---

Maria, email me and tell me which Changeling Press e-book you would like! Thanks again!

Recipe Thursday ~ Away From Home

Every Thursday, we feature a yummy recipe. this week's recipe: Sweet Potatoes With Vanilla Bean.

We will be partying down with those who are Away From Home during our 24-hour Bar & Grill party on the Changeling Press list. In that spirit, our recipe theme this week will be DESSERT.

We invite readers to post favorite recipes in the comments section. The recipe that whets our appetites the most will win the cook a FREE E-BOOK OF THEIR CHOICE from Changeling Press. Post your comment BEFORE 3 p.m. EST on Friday. The winner will be announced at 8 p.m. EST in the Bar & Grill. Join now!


Sweet Potatoes With Vanilla Bean
Always a favorite, sweet potatoes made even sweeter with real Blue Bunny Premium French Vanilla Ice Cream and toasted marshmallows.

Ingredients:
3 large sweet potatoes, peeled and diced
4 ounces marshmallows
6 ounces cream cheese
4 ounces Blue Bunny Premium French Vanilla Ice Cream

Preparation:
Preheat the oven to 400 degrees. You will need a large pot and a potato masher for this recipe.

For the sweet potatoes:
In a large pot, boil water. Add the peeled and diced sweet potatoes for 45 minutes or until tender. Strain the potatoes from the liquid. Return the potatoes to the pot. Combine the marshmallows, Blue Bunny French Vanilla ice cream and cream cheese with the potatoes in the pot. Mash on high heat. When all the ingredients are well mixed, place the mixture into a bowl. Place more marshmallows on top and brown in the oven at 400 degrees, about 10 minutes.

CREDITS:
Blue Bunny Ice Cream
Home & Away Magazine

Don't Panic

UPDATE:

Okay, looks like everything is back to 'normal', LOL. Thankfully, this was a quick fix, but be aware they are still working on cleaning up the backlog of mail in their systems. Once that's done, according to their blog, everything will be smooth sailing.


Emma Ray, back to being naughty!

Yes, we know that the Changeling Press reader's loop has suddenly disappeared off the Yahoo map. As far as we know, this is a temporary problem, and everything should be back to rights soon.

Until then, be naughty and love it! ROFL, doesn't that sound like a great idea?

Emma Ray

What Kind of Sexy Girl Are You?

I think readers and authors of erotic romance are naturally sexy. What kind of sexy girl are you?

Apparently, I'm:

You Are Sensual Sexy

You exude a luxurious sensuality in your everyday life Turning heads everywhere you go, it's all about your sexy attitude. You're naturally hot - gorgeous in both sweats and stilettos. Your biggest problem is that your ultra sexy self sometimes scares men away.

What Kind of Sexy Girl Are You?

Lacey
http://www.laceysavage.com

A Cover To Blow Your Mind!

Viva Los Regalos: Kat and Mouse

I have to share the cover for my next Changeling Press release, Viva Los Regalos: Kat and Mouse. Renee and Bryan have done an AMAZING job and I want to publicly thank them for their brilliance!

I love it so much I'm going to announce a Viva Los Regalos: Kat and Mouse contest soon where one reader can win a copy of the book AND a Viva Los Regalos: Kat and Mouse t-shirt. Stay tuned....

Oh, and here's the link to check out the book itself.

Keep smiling,

Lexxie

Winner of Oh Brother! Recipe Contest

The WINNER of this week's blog recipe contest is CATHY. Please email me at michelebardsley @ yahoo.com (no spaces). You've won a FREE E-BOOK OF YOUR CHOICE. Here is Cathy's winning recipe:

++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++
One of my favorite summer time dinners is Chicken Piccata. It is easy and fast and delicious served over spaghetti.

8-10 pieces of chicken tenders (defrosted)
Sea salt and freshly ground black pepper
2 cups all purpose flour, for dredging
6 tablespoons unsalted butter
4 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil
1/3 cup fresh lemon juice
1/2 cup chicken stock
1/2 cup of white wine
1/4 cup brined capers, rinsed
1/3 cup fresh parsley, chopped
1 lb cooked spaghetti noodles

Season chicken with salt and pepper. Dredge chicken in flour and shake off excess.

In a large 10 or 12-inch skillet over medium high heat, melt 4 tablespoons of butter with 4 tablespoons olive oil. When butter and oil start to sizzle, add chicken and cook for 3 minutes. When chicken is browned, flip and cook other side for 3 minutes. (Adjust time for really thin chicken pieces)

Remove pan from heat and move chicken to a plate.

Reduce heat to medium low and add the lemon juice, stock, wine and capers. Return to stove and bring to boil, scraping up brown bits from the pan for extra flavor. Check for seasoning. Return all the chicken to the pan and simmer for 5 minutes. Remove chicken to platter. Add remaining 2 tablespoons butter to sauce and whisk vigorously. Pour sauce over chicken and cooked spaghetti noodles and garnish with parsley.
++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++

Next week, we will post another yummy recipe and host another contest for readers. Dig into your boxes and cookbooks and bring out your best! And don't forget to check out our delicious fiction:
http://www.changelingpress.com

THANKS to everyone who made our first Recipe Thursday so much fun!!!

Recipe Thursday ~ Oh, Brother!

Welcome to a new feature on the Changeling Press Blog. Every Thursday, we will feature a yummy recipe or two.

We invite readers to post your favorite recipe in the comments section. The recipe that whets our appetites the most will win the cook a FREE E-BOOK OF THEIR CHOICE from Changeling Press. Post your comment BEFORE 3 p.m. EST on Friday. The winner will be announced at 8 p.m. EST in the Bar & Grill: Join now!

We will be partying down with brothers (blood or otherwise) during our 24-hour party on the Changeling Press list. In that spirit, our recipe theme this week will be BARBECUE. Give us your best recipe: oven, grill, slow cooker ... the method isn't as important as making our mouths water.

The Deen Brothers' BBQ Chicken
Makes 3 to 4 servings

Tennessee barbecue usually means pork: pork shoulder, ribs, or the whole hog. But where we come from, it means a great sauce, like this one, and good old chicken, the mainstay of our family business.

Ingredients:
1 cup ketchup
¼ cup packed dark brown sugar
2 tablespoons orange juice
1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
1 teaspoon liquid smoke
½ teaspoon dry mustard powder
½ teaspoon cayenne pepper
One 3½ pound chicken, cut into 8 pieces

Directions:

1. Preheat oven to 375° F or prepare a grill (brush the grill grate lightly with oil).

2. In a large bowl, stir together all ingredients except the chicken. Reserve 1/3 cup of the barbecue sauce; set aside. Add the chicken to the remaining sauce in the bowl, turning to coat.

3. Arrange the coated chicken in a roasting pan or on the grill. Cook (covered, if grilling) for 40 to 45 minutes or until cooked through, basting with the reserved 1/3 cup sauce after 20 minutes.

LINKS
Ugly Brothers BBQ Recipes
Road Tasted with Bobby and Jamie Deen
The Lee Bros (Southern Cooking)

Don't forget to taste some of our delicious fiction. CLICK HERE for our newest releases.

Cat's news and a contest

The August issue of my newsletter is now online! I've also done a teensy bit of redesigning on the website (call it a work in progress): let me know what you think! Some pages might need to be refreshed before they load correctly--don't ask me why, it's just the way they go. A quick check on the News or Contest pages should tell you if it's loaded right: News will be headed August, and Contest will have the Drive Me Daisy details.

While you're on the Contest page, don't forget to enter to win a download of Drive Me Daisy.

Adam was the first man Daisy ever saw. When the faeries sent her back to the mortal realm, his werewolf pack took her in. Adam was the first man to make love to her, and the first to break her heart. Now, fifteen years later, Adam's back, and he needs Daisy: in his work, in his life, and in his bed.

But fifteen years can change a person, and now Daisy's not so sure she can forgive Adam for what happened all that time ago. Plus, there's the little matter of the secret she's been keeping since she last saw him...

Emma Ray in Babeville

Hi everyone! I'll be hanging out today with DC, Michele, and Isy over in Babeville from eleven to five, central time, today! (that's noon to six, eastern) That's right, I'm Promo-Ho-La-ing in Babeville and it's going to be wild!

I've got prizes, a joke or two, and all the time to entertain! The link to the group is in this blog's title, so come on over and join in! I've promised to be an open book, and to offer up plenty of naughty goodness, ROFL, so don't miss out!

I think I'll even write a couple of hot shorts just for the babes, *BG*

See you there!

Emma Ray

Dakota and Michele at RWA Convention

Dakota vamps, Michele blinks. Note to photog Kati: Take TWO pictures, daughter o' mine.

We popped in to the RWA Convention in Dallas, Texas a few times, but mostly we (Me, Kati, Terri Lugo, Michelle Hoppe) stayed at Dakota's house and gabbed until the wee hours of the morning. I'm still catching up on sleep.

Hopefully, I'll be all caught up before Conestoga, July 20-22nd. If you live in Tulsa or are within driving distance, come play! CLICK HERE for more information.

All Wrapped Up 2: Torqued

My newest BDSM novella, "Torqued" is available now at Changeling Press!

Here's a sneak peek!

What's not to like about a little BDSM and a lot of menage? Mix two alpha vampire males and one powerful human psychic and you get unbelievable chemistry exploding between a trio of dominants!

All Wrapped Up 2: Torqued by Emma Ray Garrett

Pru Gordon has finally gotten an assignment worth having. But when the time comes to put her money where her mouth is, will her assignment be more than she can handle?

Excerpt, rated PG-13:

***

All Wrapped Up 2: Torqued
Emma Ray Garrett
All rights reserved.
Copyright ©2007 Emma Ray Garrett
An Authorized Excerpt

This e-book file contains sexually explicit scenes and adult language which some may find offensive and which is not appropriate for a young audience. Changeling Press E-Books are for sale to adults, only, as defined by the laws of the country in which you made your purchase. Please store your files wisely, where they cannot be accessed by under-aged readers.

The sleek glide of vinyl over hairless flesh brought a smile to Pru’s lips. God, it felt good to dress the way she wanted. After ten years in training with the Relic Group, putting on a potato sack would feel good, as long as she chose it.

Pru pulled the zipper of her thigh high boot up before stomping both shoes against the floor and tugging at their tops. Legs properly ensconced, she turned around to look at herself in the mirror.

“Very nice.”

With one last glance, Pru left her apartment, slapping her palm against the identpad to lock the door. As she made her way to the parking garage, she couldn’t help but smile again. She worked at the hottest BDSM club in the country, Ovelia. Situated on the outskirts of downtown Atlanta, the club drew customers not just from the city, or the state, but also from all over the world.

Her work at Ovelia paid very well, and as she approached her prize possession, she couldn’t help but purr with satisfaction. The hovercycle was unbelievably expensive, but worth every dime.

She slid her body onto the low-slung vehicle, starting the antigrav field and lifting off in the same smooth motion. The ride to her job took less than ten minutes, but it was ten minutes spent in complete joy. She pulled into the parking garage and powered down the cycle. With one last look, she made her way to the employee entrance.

Pru waved to Bertie, the lupercan bouncer, on her way in. He was wolfed-out, nothing odd about that, but the bright pink collar was new.

“Nice accessory, Bertie.” She smiled when he preened at her comment.

“Thanks, Pru. I wanted to try something different.”

“It looks good. What’s George think?”

The heavily muscled, hair-covered lupercan crossed his arms. “He likes me in pink.”

Pru laughed as she made her way through the steadily filling club toward her personal room. She knew Bertie liked pink too. She entered her well-appointed room, sighing contentedly at the clean, simple lines of the space. Antonio decorated with panache, careful to balance ambiance with functionality.

A simple queen-sized bed stood alone on the back wall. There was a small sitting area in front of a replica of a medieval rack. Pru didn’t use the device very often, but she found the simplicity of the torturous contraption appealing. The wall nearest the door held chains, the full complement of her whip collection, as well as miscellaneous paraphernalia she used to ply her trade.

She trailed her fingers over the whips, the supple leather cool and smooth beneath her hand. Her blood warmed as she thought about the night to come. Antonio no doubt had her booked. If this were any other job, she might have been grumbling. Instead, her clit swelled between her legs and her breasts grew heavy.

She turned to the bed, mussing the covers a bit for effect. It was time for her to check in with Antonio and get her schedule for the night. Before she left the room, she opened up the camouflaged safe and put away her things. She shifted a pair of furred cuffs out of the way to make room for her handbag and a thought tickled her senses.

“Another set of manacles might come in handy.” With a wicked grin, she shut the safe. A small control pad rested on her lingerie dresser. With a little giggle, she punched a few numbers on the remote. The wall panel between her whips and one set of chains recessed and rotated before sliding back into place with another set of cuffs and chains anchored to it.

She dropped the controller on the bed and headed out into the club. Time to go to work.

***

www.myspace.com/emmaraygarrett

Changeling Press @ RT

Changeling Press authors and staff descended upon the hotel restaurant at the Romantic Times Convention in Houston, Texas. We ate, we gabbed, we laughed, and we crammed into this alcove for a picture. The photo is courtesy of Kate Douglas.

RRT Erotic Reviews

I had to share the two newest reviews for my Pret Ops series! Sinclair Reid at Romance Reviews Today's erotic sister wrote excellent reviews and I'm very, very appreciative of her hard work!

Here's what she said:

"FAMILIAR is the first book in Emma Ray Garrett's Pret Ops series and it's extremely hot…a thrilling and exciting erotic romance!"

"Fascinating! WARWOLF is enticing and scintillating… it is a delightful read with captivating characters, a riveting storyline, and mind-blowing sex all rolled up into one nice, neat package."

Sinclair's reviews made my day!

Emma Ray

Great reviews for Diary of a Demon Hunter 4

4 Stars! O Rating! "Raphael is a half-demon used to getting his way without asking and he isn’t sure what to do with Maggie, outside of phenomenal sex, now that he has her. Maggie and Raphael will make a reader’s toes curl. There is so much raw passion and sensuality rolling off of the half-demon, and she is just as aggressive, so together they have fantabulous sex scenes. They are also funny and witty."
--Brigit Aine, Just Erotic Romance Reviews

4 Blue Ribbons! "DOUBLY DYING will knock your socks off. This was yet another great installment in the Diary of a Demon Hunter saga. For those of you, who haven't read these books, start at the beginning. There's so much happening, you don't want to miss any of the scorching action ... The sex scenes were phenomenal. They definitely left me breathless."
-- Amanda Haffery, Romance Junkies

5 Lips! "DOUBLY DYING starts out with one of the sexiest and erotic scenes that I've read in quite a while. I have been anxiously awaiting this addition to the Diary of a Demon Hunter series and Michele Bardsley didn't disappoint! Rafe is one of the more fantastic males that I've ever had the pleasure to be introduced to and Maggie is definitely a strong kick-ass woman. Combined, they balance each other perfectly."
-- Kerin, Two Lips Reviews

CLICK HERE for more information!

IMPORTANT--Rat Poison Found In Pet Food, FDA Recall Information

I can't imagine there are many pet owners who haven't heard about this yet, but it's still worth reposting this information from the FDA regarding the rat poison contamination of many brands of canned or "wet" pet food. As anyone who knows me will attest, I adore my pets and am so thankful right now that they don't eat wet food! But for the sake of all the pets that do eat it, I'm reposting this.

Love your furbabies--read the information and CHECK THAT FOOD!



(Copied from the FDA website, all rights reserved by copyright holder)
Recall of Pet Foods Manufactured by Menu Foods, Inc.

The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has been informed that Menu Foods, Inc., a private-label pet food manufacturer based in Streetsville, Ontario, Canada, is recalling all its "cuts and gravy" style dog and cat food produced at its facility in Emporia, Kansas between December 3, 2006 and March 6, 2007. The products are sold in the United States, Canada and Mexico.

The recall was prompted by consumer complaints received by the manufacturer and by tasting trials conducted by the manufacturer. There has been a small number of reported instances of cats and dogs in the United States that developed kidney failure after eating the affected product. To date, Menu Foods, Inc. has reported 14 animal deaths to the FDA. Nine cats died during routine taste trials conducted by the company. Consumers reported deaths of four cats and one dog. The firm has undertaken extensive testing of the pet food products in question, but to date has been unable to find the source of the problem.

The products are packaged in cans and pouches under numerous brand names and are marketed nationwide by many pet food retailers including Ahold USA Inc., Kroger Company, Safeway, Wal-Mart Stores, Inc., PetSmart, Inc., and Pet Valu, Inc.

Menu Foods, Inc. has identified the potentially contaminated products on the Internet at www.menufoods.com/recall. Consumers who have any of these products should immediately stop feeding them to their pets. Dogs or cats who have consumed the suspect feed and show signs of kidney failure (such as loss of appetite, lethargy and vomiting) should consult with their veterinarian. Menu Foods, Inc. is notifying retailers by telephone and mail and is arranging for the return of all recalled products.

FDA is conducting an investigation and working with Menu Foods, Inc. to ensure the effectiveness of the recall. Consumers with questions may contact the company at 1-866-895-2708. Consumers who wish to report adverse actions or other problems can go to http://www.fda.gov/opacom/backgrounders/complain.html to contact the FDA complaint coordinator in their state.

However, this information from the FDA website is just a little bit old--today's news stories bear that out. This is from Yahoo News, directly copied, all rights reserved by copyright holder:

"ALBANY, N.Y. - Rat poison was found in the pet food suspected of causing kidney failure that killed at least 16 cats and dogs, but scientists still don't know how it got there, state officials said Friday.

The toxin was identified as aminopterin, which is used to kill rats in some countries, state Agriculture Commissioner Patrick Hooker said."

And just so no one has to look too hard to know what brands are included:

Recalled Cat Product Information
Recall Information 1-866-895-2708

1. Americas Choice, Preferred Pets
2. Authority
3. Best Choice
4. Companion
5. Compliments
6. Demoulas Market Basket
7. Eukanuba
8. Fine Feline Cat
9. Food Lion
10. Foodtown
11. Giant Companion
12. Hannaford
13. Hill Country Fare
14. Hy-Vee
15. Iams
16. Laura Lynn
17. Li'l Red
18. Loving Meals
19. Meijer's Main Choice
20. Nutriplan
21. Nutro Max Gourmet Classics
22. Nutro Natural Choice
23. Paws
24. Pet Pride
25. Presidents Choice
26. Price Chopper
27. Priority US
28. Save-A-Lot Special Blend
29. Schnucks
30. Science Diet Feline Savory Cuts Cans
31. Sophistacat
32. Special Kitty Canada
33. Special Kitty US
34. Springfield Prize
35. Sprout
36. Stop & Shop Companion
37. Tops Companion
38. Wegmans
39. Weis Total Pet
40. Western Family US
41. White Rose
42. Winn Dixie

Recalled Dog Product Information
Recall Information 1-866-895-2708

1. Americas Choice, Preferred Pets
2. Authority
3. Award
4. Best Choice
5. Big Bet
6. Big Red
7. Bloom
8. Cadillac
9. Companion
10. Demoulas Market Basket
11. Eukanuba
12. Food Lion
13. Giant Companion
14. Great Choice
15. Hannaford
16. Hill Country Fare
17. Hy-Vee
18. Iams
19. Laura Lynn
20. Loving Meals
21. Meijers Main Choice
22. Mighty Dog Pouch
23. Mixables
24. Nutriplan
25. Nutro Max
26. Nutro Natural Choice
27. Nutro Ultra
28. Nutro
29. Ol'Roy Canada
30. Ol'Roy US
31. Paws
32. Pet Essentials
33. Pet Pride - Good n Meaty
34. Presidents Choice
35. Price Chopper
36. Priority Canada
37. Priority US
38. Publix
39. Roche Brothers
40. Save-A-Lot Choice Morsels
41. Schnucks
42. Shep Dog
43. Springsfield Prize
44. Sprout
45. Stater Brothers
46. Stop & Shop Companion
47. Tops Companion
48. Wegmans Bruiser
49. Weis Total Pet
50. Western Family US
51. White Rose
52. Winn Dixie
53. Your Pet

Please feel free to forward this along! Just make sure you don't alter the FDA article or change any part of it--we don't have permission to do that.

Wordless Wednesday

Final Installment of Diary of a Demon Hunter...

The last installment in the Diary of a Demon Hunter series is now available from Changeling Press! Woo-hoo!

ABOUT THE BOOK
Maggie Mortis goes after the demon king Abatu -- who plans to give "hell on Earth" a whole new definition. Maggie will risk everything to entrap the demon -- even the love of Raphael. It will be a battle that will either save her soul... or condemn it.

Publisher's Note: This title is part of a serial -- books which share a universe and are meant to be read in order.

EXCERPT (ADULT)
“This one is nice,” said Raphael. He held up the magazine. The dress looked like something Cinderella would wear to the ball, all big and fluffy and diamond-speckled.

“You like that gown?” she asked as she took off her weapons.

“Don’t you?”

Maggie took off her boots then wiggled out of her demon-hunting suit. Still in her black lace bra and panties, she crawled onto the bed and snuggled next to Rafe. As she stroked the hard muscles of his stomach, she looked at the picture again then at her fiancé. “If you like that frou-frou shit I guess I could wear it.”

Rafe’s blue eyes twinkled. “You must love me, Maggie, if you would even think about showing up to our wedding dressed in frou-frou shit.”

She lightly punched his shoulder. Then, feeling vulnerable and guilty and in love, she sat up and cupped his face. “I would do anything for you.”

His eyes went dark and he leaned forward to capture her lips. Electric heat raced through her, and she slid onto his lap. Pressing her sex against the lengthening bulge in his jeans, Maggie broke their kiss long enough to unclip her bra and throw it to the floor.

Rafe cupped her breasts, bringing one succulent peak to his mouth. He tugged the nipple between his teeth, flicking the aching tip with his tongue. Maggie moaned, her hands drifting down to stroke at the juncture where her pussy met his jean-clad hard-on.

Rafe seemed to be in a lazy lovemaking mood, which suited Maggie just fine. She wanted to relish every moment in case… well, in case nothing. He would forgive her. He would understand her reasons. Maybe he’d be pissed off for a while, but he wouldn’t leave her. And even if he did -- her breath caught in her throat—then he would be alive. That was the important thing. If he was walking around and breathing, wasn’t that worth sacrificing his trust?

I would do anything for you, Raphael.

Her heart kicked up a frantic beat, caught between the unfurling lust heating her inside out and the adrenaline-spiked guilt threatening to cool her ardor.

Goddamn it. As despair jabbed her, she pushed aside all her worries and focused on Rafe and on how he made her feel.

Right now, there would be only love.

She would think about all the rest tomorrow.

READ ANOTHER EXCERPT

FMI ABOUT THE SERIES

VISIT MAGGIE AT MYSPACE

Winner of an Ecataromance Reviewers' Choice Award!

Okay, I'm doing a little tooting of my own horn. LOL. My book, The Beast 4: Soul Tripping has won an Ecataromance Reviewers' Choice award for best ebook of 2006!! I feel honored and elated.

Here is what the reviewer, Keely Skillman, had to say: "5 Stars! Ms. George delivers her usual dose of volcanic love scenes worthy of a re-read or four. This one definitely puts to rest any doubts about whether or not a series can start with an explosive bang and maintain the energy level and drive through multiple books."
-- Keely Skillman, eCataRomance Sensual Reviews

Hugs and thanks for indulging me!

Renee George

www.romance-the-night.com

Thursday Thirteen

Thirteen Things about Cat Marsters 1. I've never done one of these before so I had to go and visit the Thursday Thirteen site to figure out what the hell it was about. 2. In nine days it will be my birthday. On Monday it will be my cousin's birthday, and she's nine years younger than me. 3. I have a new book out today that I wasn't expecting until Friday! 4. I think smock dresses make people look pregnant. 5. I still wish my hair was curly, even though I know it's way more work than I could ever be prepared to do. 6. I haven't brushed my hair for about three years, not counting ruby weddings or funerals. 7. There's a black and white cat who thinks he lives in our house, even though someone else has put a collar on him. We named him Jess after Postman Pat's cat. 8. I eat chocolate muffins for breakfast. They're low fat and used to be really nice, but recently they changed the recipe so they're not. Now I'm wondering how many Weight Watchers points there are in the proper ones. 9. I first went to Center Parcs when I was about three and have never lost the sense of childish wonder I had then. In fact, I'm going back next week all by myself. 10. I have never read Pride and Prejudice. Or any book by Jane Austen. Does this mean I'm not allowed to be a romantic novelist any more? 11. My favourite song in the whole world is Fall At Your Feet by Crowded House, and has been since I was about fourteen. 12. I still can't remember which button makes a space, which makes punctuation, and which cycles through options when I'm writing a text message, even though I've had my phone nearly a year. 13. Even though I got a B in maths I never actually learned my times tables.

Get the Thursday Thirteen code here!


The purpose of the meme is to get to know everyone who participates a little bit better every Thursday. Visiting fellow Thirteeners is encouraged! If you participate, leave the link to your Thirteen in others comments. It’s easy, and fun! Be sure to update your Thirteen with links that are left for you, as well! I will link to everyone who participates and leaves a link to their 13 things. Trackbacks, pings, comment links accepted!

View More Thursday Thirteen Participants

Very Excited to say

Check out me on March 21st when Kate Hill hosts stuff about MEE -- oh, and other people.

Treva Harte
www.trevaharte.com

Another CP Author Featured at Dark Ice Goddess Musings

Anisa Damien is the featured author at Dark Ice Goddess Musings! Check out all the yummy excerpts and her interview. Here's a bit about Anisa:

Anisa Damien writes African-American and multicultural erotic romance. She’s been immersed in the wonderful world of romantic fiction and creating characters known for their diversity for years or since grade school (where she sneaked romance books up to her bedroom and skipped to the “good” parts!) But who’s telling? And blames her obsession with heroes on Rhett Butler!
Anisa resides just out of Chicago with her family where she can be found jotting notes for her character sketches, people watching or catching up on CSI.

CLICK HERE to check out the fun!

Terrific reviews for Candy For Valentine

CANDY FOR VALENTINE, my February release, is the story of an ostracized blogger and a rare vampire who hook up at a romance reader's conference. Check out these terrific reviews!

Five Angels! "Valentine was an amazingly biting character who covered her pain and hurt behind cutting remarks. ... Michele Bardsley has penned a phenomenal follow up to Christmas for Eve and tied things up very nicely."
---Serena, Fallen Angel Reviews

Five Blue Ribbons! "I loved everything about CANDY FOR VALENTINE. The characters and the plot were fantastic. I couldn't wait to read about what would happen next. ... Michele Bardsley never fails to amaze readers with her quirky and witty characters, the fun and hot sex, and as always an amazing storyline to go with it."
---Willowxand, Romance Junkies

"Michele writes erotica in ways that men will enjoy. I secretly think she's the editor of Penthouse Forum. ... I was able to get vampires, a little Valentine's Day romance and incredible sex writing in one great story."
---Tony Miller, The Horror Fan

CLICK HERE to read an excerpt or to download the story for a mere $2.99!

Featured Author at Dark Ice Goddess Musings!

Today at Dark Ice Goddess Musings, I am the featured author. You can read an interview, enjoy excerpts from my vampire mom novels, and if you comment, you'll be entered to win erotica e-books. First prize is all three of my Witch Magic stories: The Binding, The Shining, and The Mating.

Click here to go to Michele's Author Day

FMI about my Witch Magic trilogy:
Click here to view Michele's Changeling Press titles

Thanks! Have a great Tuesday. :-)

V-Day Interview with Me ... and Jack Ketchum

Check out the Valentine's Day interview that blogger Tony Miller created from interviews with me and with Jack Ketchum. Click HERE to read how we feel about zombies and wedding vows. *G*

Be sure and check out the review Tony wrote for CANDY FOR VALENTINE.

Michele :-)

Candy For Valentine

HAPPY VALENTINE'S DAY! Here's a calorie-free treat...



Candy For Valentine
By Michele Bardsley

EXCERPT
According the paper in his hand, Michael had been booked into Room 432. Steven and Eve had made all arrangements and Eve had promised him an "awesome surprise."

The stupid key card didn't work. Wasn't that typical? He used some vamp mojo on the door and it clicked open. As he entered the room, he immediately smelled a human female. Her sexual scent was strong and invoked an immediate reaction. Dropping everything, he hurried into the main part of the room.

The gorgeous brunette sat on the bed, dressed in nothing but bra, panties, cuffs, and gag. Woo-hoo! He was mightily impressed by this surprise.

"You are way more than awesome," he said.

Her brown eyes looked glazed and wild. Oh, baby. She was different from his usual donors. Maybe Steven and Eve had realized he needed to change it up. He was a rarity in a world filled with rarities--a vampire who could only feed when engaged in a sexual act. As young as he was in the vampire world (only 40 years undead), he had more power than vampires who'd been around for a thousand years.

He'd stopped having relationships more than twenty years ago; no woman he'd met had been able to keep up with his need for blood and for sex. These days, he hired call girls who could give him what he needed. He never used the same woman twice, he paid her well, and he wiped her memory.

"God, you're beautiful," he said as he kicked off his Vans and shucked his jeans and boxers. He took off his T-shirt and stood before her naked, his cock already primed. "Let's make the first time last a little while."

She shook her head. looking desperate. Frowning, he leaned forward to cup her mound and found her panties soaked. "Playing ahead of time?" His frown flipped to a smile. "Okay." He could hold off on feeding for now. "If you want me, lay face down on the bed, and show me your ass."


CLICK HERE to read another excerpt or to order now!

Have you been tagged?

Don't worry if you haven't yet, it's only a matter of time. It seems that game so many of us loved as children has found new life on the internet. I think I've been tagged fifty times in the last week, LOL!

I haven't tagged anyone back yet *sigh* much to my chagrin. I seem to be going from one deadline to another, LOL! You know, though, if someone would tag me with a pic of a fine stud, MWAHAHAHAHA, I might just make time *WEG*!

In other exciting news, Valentine's is only two days away. Do any of you have plans? My DH is taking me to a romantic, candle-lit dinner. I can't wait. Pink champagne, perfectly prepared prime rib, and no dishes to wash after!! Now that's what I call a terrific Valentine's Day, LOL!

Until next time, be naughty and blame it on me, ROFL!

Emma Ray

Leopard Tails: Alchemist is out!

Yes, the leopards are back. Joey, who you met in Eyes of the Leopard 5: Captive and Cat Out of Hell is back. He and his kind have settled in a New England town. Vitale and Ilia own a hardware shop. Nicole is there and so is Molly who's opened her own beauty shop. Mikhail and Nadia are there, running the butcher shop. LOL Alex and Casey are there to complete the crowd.

Oh, yes, and Gramma Ruby. We musn't forget her. LOL

There's trouble brewing it in Madden. Is it coming from the men in black? The werewolves?

Or is the threat much closer to home?

Check it out: http://www.changelingpress.com/product.php?&upt=book&ubid=513. Thank you!

Tell Us How You Celebrate Valentine's Day

Hey Changeling Press readers! We want YOU to tell us about your favorite Valentine's Day stories for the February issue of A Cheeky Changeling - The Official Ezine of Changeling Press.

Answer one or all of the following and post here as a comment:

What is your favorite sexy Valentine's day tradition?
How do you celebrate Valentine's Day?
What's your favorite Valentine's Day memory?

Not only will you be included in our article, you'll have a chance at winning our 5 luscious Candy Hearts stories. Three winners to be chosen on 2/1/07. Thank you!

Isy

Check out this flash movie I made!

Check out this flash movie I made! You'll just love it!

Get your own flash movies at Toufee.com

Romans with teeth

I'd like to introduce you to someone. He's big, he's strong, he's very sexy, and he has fangs. His name is Rafael, and he's a Master vampire. He's been alive fifteen hundred years, has killed and created, watched empires rise and fall, and taken countless women--and men--to his bed.

Unfortunately, he has a serious impulse control problem.

Being a vampire, this leads to a few unfortunate consequences. Like with Paige. Paige is smart, modern, and beautiful, and also unfortunately dead, since Rafa got a little carried away with the biting. And since Paige is the best beloved of Rafa's friend and employee, Jamie, he's got to do something about it. Or Jamie will be inviting Rafa for a cosy threesome with a wooden stake.

So what's a vampire to do? Turn her and hope Jamie can help her through it? Let her die? Or make her into a be-fanged one, and risk her turning out like him, a barely civilised barbarian who accidentally kills people when he feeds?

What's a vampire to do?

If you'd like to find out, be sure to check out Rafa, Paige and Jamie's story in Unholy Trinity, available as soon as Friday dawns!

Happy Holidays!

What's Stuffing YOUR Stocking?

Changeling Press is stuffing reader's stockings with short, hot reads throughout December. These stories will melt way more than just snow!

Stocking Stuffer: Werewolf Christmas
by Kyla Logan

Stocking Stuffer: Happy Howlidays
by Isabella Jordan

Stocking Stuffer: The Gift
by Lia Connor

Stocking Stuffer: Christmas Cookie
by Elizabeth Jewell

Stocking Stuffer: Snow Man
by Willa Okati

Stocking Stuffer: Christmas for Eve
by Michele Bardsley

Stocking Stuffer: Jingle Spells
by Dakota Cassidy

Stocking Stuffer: Santa’s Bag
by Alexis Fleming

Stocking Stuffer: Elves Gone Wild
by Lacey Savage

Stocking Stuffer: Fruitcakes
by Renee George

Stocking Stuffer: Ice Maiden
by Alecia Monaco

Stocking Stuffer: The Christmas Bunny
by Camille Anthony

---

Win Free Books For a Year from Changeling Press!

1st place: Free E-Books For a Year (All Changeling 2007 e-book releases)

2nd place: Free Paperbacks For a Year -- (All Changeling 2007 paperback releases)

3rd place: Free Books For a Month -- (All Changeling January 2007 e-book releases)

10 runners-up will receive a free download of their choice

Buy any Changeling Stocking Stuffer during the month of December and you're automatically entered to win. Every purchase of a Stocking Stuffer counts as a contest entry.

www.ChangelingPress.com

Let it snow!

Most of you know I live on the coast of Washington, at sea level I might add, so when I tell you there is six inches of snow on the ground here you might think I've hit my head or something. But, it's true -- there is a pile of white stuff in my yard and it is colder than a frozen pond in Maine in January. I was going to say colder than a witch's tit, but since many of you might not know how cold a witch's tit can be, I figured I'd give you something easier to compare too.

In honor of our snow and the idiots who think getting to work is the most important thing on the 'to do' list today, I wrote a little ditty I'd like to share with you.



Twas a night of great snow fall and all through the town,
it fell from the sky to white kiss the ground.

The children did run up the street in delight,
noses red, frozen hands, oh to see such a sight.

Snowball fights, dazzling lights, children shouting with glee,
as a blanket of snow covered each and every tree.

And the snow it did fall on the buildings and streets,
turning all of our drivers into dumb little freaks.

Not a tail light unbroken as they plowed here and there,
hitting cars, curbs, and lamp posts with nary a care.

As adults we forget all the fun to be had,
when snow comes a calling wee lassies and lads.

Don't you get in that car, tell the boss you'll be late,
life's too short don't you know to make wee children wait.

Grab a coat and a muff, grab a scarf if you must,
Get a pail or a sled and some other great stuff.

Out the door you must run with the children in tow
Take a day. Take an hour. Just go play in the snow!

Contest

Christmas in December Contest

For details click here

Pandora's People 2: Keely--Now Available

Pandora's People: Keely is now available



Pandora's People: Keely was released by Changeling Press on Friday.

Last year, Keely lost her lover, John, in a supposed anti-terrorist operation. Now, as she and her fellow aberrants uncover a government plot to destroy the society they’ve built for themselves, the facts about this conspiracy come to light. To complicate matters, Keely is teamed with West, a powerful aberrant who captures her heart. Afraid to love again in the face of her recent loss, Keely must come to terms with her past and decide whether to accept the love West offers as they fight together to uncover a shocking secret.

This is volume two in a three-book series.

Over the past generation, children all over the world have been born with strange powers. Scientists have no explanation. Aberrant communities have sprung up across the world. In the US, Pandora, a mysterious woman with even more mysterious powers, acts as a liaison between the aberrants and the government.

Gale Harrison is new to the aberrant community, having been raised by affluent parents who sent him to a private school among "normal" people. Gale channels electricity through his body, but he’s never learned how to use his skill, only to ruthlessly control it. Intimacy with another person has always been denied him. When he meets Michael, he finds a reason to learn another way. And when he and Michael stumble into a plot to destroy the aberrant society, he must use the powers he was born with to save innocent lives.

Desire Island

No idea if I did this right, but if you want to see one of my usual half-witted (almost said half-something else) posts on my blog about Desire Island, you're welcome.

Oh my gods...

Umm, who forgot to tell me that there was only about two and a half weeks until Thanksgiving? Oy, where has time gone?!

Okay, forget about my head spinning, this week is busy for Changeling Press. On Tuesday, join Sierra, me, and a few other authors over at the erotic Coffetime yahoo group (www.groups.yahoo.com/group/karendevinkaren) for some fabulous excerpts, great chatting, and a lovely prize for those who jump in on the fun!

Then Thursday, it's Thank God It's Thursday with Renee and Dakota! Those two are a crazy, wonderful delight to spend a few hours with in the afternoon. TGITWRAD runs from 1pm to 3pm Central Time (that's 2pm to 4pm Eastern Time, for those of you like me who hate trying to figure that stuff out!). They always have juicy tidbits on offer and they are a riot to boot!

So come and visit with Changeling Press wherever we are this week!

Til next time, be naughty and love it!

Emma Ray

Small town on coast of Washington ...

gripped in deadly struggle for power.

No, this is not a headline from the local paper, nor does it have anything to do with politics or the local electric company. This battle is being fought from one end of my house to the other for control of the on/off switch on my computer hard drive.

Let me introduce you to the combatants.

In the black, swivel, high-back office chair we have yours truly, Michelle Hoppe, romance author.

On the floor, in cute little pink shirt and pants, binky in mouth, hands and knees working as a team, is my seven month old grand daughter.

It is my desire to have said switch left in the on position and Bailey's desire to simply push it in and out. Matters not to her if it's on or off, it's the thrill of victory she is going for. Pleas from me about lost files and crashed hard drives not withstanding, Bailey is like a robot on auto pilot, programmed for one purpose only: to crawl, push, twist and scream in her efforts to meet the objective of pushing the button with the little green light.

A typical battle for supremacy goes something like this:

Bailey, cute little gurgling noises echoing around her, fakes grandma into believing she is engrossed in the current Disney movie blaring from the television.

Grandma turns to computer to write, unaware that little crawler is inching her way toward the desk, her mouth set on silent running to forestall warning anyone (me) of her approach. Her goal within reach, Bailey extends a pudgy little finger toward the glowing green light just as I catch movement out the corner of my eye and react with the speed of a twenty-year old. Scooping baby up, I place her back on the blanket in front of the tv, toy's heaped around her, some with little buttons of their own, in a vein attempt to refocus her attention on something else.

Now aware that snuggly little grand daughter has once again set her sites on my hard-drive, I return to work with one eye on the screen and one on the bundle of pink, determined to prove her stamina is greater than mine. Back and forth the combatants jockey for position. Little does she realize, I have trained for this struggle once before. Yes, I am an experienced, battle weary veteran of the shiny button wars. I earned a purple heart two and half years ago, when training Katelyn that certain things in grandmas house are off limits to little girls. Having succeeded once, I will triumph again or break another fingernail trying.

Katelyn, now aware of how important it is to leave grandmas computer alone will intercede at times, mostly because she gets tired of listening to the crying.

I know, I'm not supposed to cry at my age, but darn it, you all know what a hard shut down of a computer will do to your current project.

The problem with Katie's intervention is it only last about as long as her attention span which is seventeen point six seconds. Barely enough time for me to get comfy and take a sip of coffee. Once free of Katelyn's arms, Bailey rolls onto her hands and knees. Crawling over toys like a hum-v, one track mind reengaged, she heads back towards the light. No longer attempting to hide her intentions, it is now a race to see if she can get to the button before grandma gets her legs uncrossed and sets the coffee cup down without spilling its contents on the keyboard to grab her before the 'click' sounds.

Score one for grandma, as I snatch her up by the back of her shirt and plop her on my knee. For the seven hundred and sixty fifth time I explain why she is not allowed to touch the computer. I might as well be talking to myself, because the rug rat is squirming to get down so she can implement attack plan bravo-charlie-b345ddf. I however swing into action with battle plan warmbottleinbabiesmouth, followed by a victory dance as the little angel falls to sleep.

A cease fire has been called for the next two hours while Bailey recharges her batteries with a much needed nap. Katelyn is also napping, so I have a window of opportunity to get some work done. There is only one problem with my window - I too need a nap after the morning skirmishes so if you will excuse me I think I'll just lean back in my chair and close my eyes for a few minutes.

(reposted from my blog)

Contest Winners

Thank you to everyone who entered my contest yesterday.

Congrats to Riane Lasair, Mishmish and Tehya, your names were pulled from the plastic pumpkin by my grand daughter.

To claim your prize send an email to:

michelle@michellehoppe.com

Again, thank you everyone for playing along with my unexpected Halloween contest. Be sure to visit me at: www.michellehoppe.com for all the latest and greatest!

Michelle Hoppe

Contest

Hi everyone.

My name is Michelle Hoppe and one of my tag lines is: Experience the Unexpected. I love putting the unexpected in my stories, like my newest release Jack-O'Lanterns: Warlock's Eve and I enjoy doing the unexpected when it comes to promo's. So, even though it's November 1st, I'm going to have a Halloween contest ~smiles~. Oh, and if you've never entered one of my contest before, they are easy...I'm talking easy with a capital E.

Here's all you have to do to enter and win:

Post a comment here telling me what one kind of candy you can't resist.

That's it. If you post you're entered.

I will pick three winners at noon tomorrow. The prize is a surprise, because of course that is Unexpected!! And don't forget to check out my newest release:

Jack-O'Lanterns: Warlocks Eve

Life lesson #956.7

When your three year old grand daughter answers the following question:

What are you doing?

with:

Nothing, grandma.

Run, don't walk, run to find out what she is up to or you may spend the next hour trying to wash fushia sharpie off not only the sofa, but her entire right leg, stomach, fingers, and lips.

Geoege Washington--yeah, really

OK, folks. This has nothing directly to do with anything I write or ever intend to write. Just--I saw the forensic recreation of George Washington in his 20s and wow. I mean, he was sexy. I heard of such things in accounts people wrote of him but well, c'mon, who knew?

Of course he is dead and has been dead for quite awhile but I guess I need to take my hunk sources from whatever unlikely spot I find them.

Treva Harte
Turns -- www.changelingpress.com

Results of the Shapeshifter Contest

Boy, you guys made this HARD. LOL Okay, so the following readers, please email me (isa@isabellajordan.com) for one ebook of your choice from Changeling Press:

Bonita
Amy S.
Annie in GA
Robin
Crystal Stone
Estella
Cinquetta Allen
Cathy
Pamk
dannyfiredragon
Ali
Nicole
ladyvampire2u
jennybrat
kaisquared

The winner of the $25 gift certificate - tough decision - was Cherie! Congrats everyone and thanks for letting me use your answers in our November ezine!!!

Hugs all around,

Isy

Thank God it's Thursday with Dakota and Renee

Thank God it's Thursday with Dakota Cassidy and Renee George

October 12, 2007 on the Changeling Press loop from 11:00 am to 3:00 pm central time!

Join Dakota and Renee for an afternoon of spookalicious spookerotic! They will be highlighting the authors who put the "O" in Jack-O-Lantern. One lucky reader will win a complete set of all 13 Jack-O-Lanterns being released by Changeling Press this month!

Come out and play, enjoy the mayhem and erotic yummy goodness as Dakota and Renee take trick or treating to a whole 'nother level of hot!

Of course there will be a participation prize (they are not above bribery!).

EJ Checks In

Just dropping by to say hi! I'm a busy gal these days, with books coming out (or that have already come out) in July (Deadly Sins--Gluttony, Sunrise), September (Black Tie and Hot Tails), October (Lady in White), November (Pandora's People--Keely) and December (Glynna's Christmas Cookie). I hope you'll keep an eye out for these new titles--I've been having a blast writing them.

Also, I just (finally) updated my web page, so drop on by for more news.

Elizabeth Jewell
http://elizabethjewell.blogspot.com

Spookerotic October

Ooh, and before I forget, HI RENEE! LOL, I'm on top now!

Okay, back to the point. This month Changeling is totally getting into the holiday! The Jack O Lanterns are fab, but there are a ton of spookalicious erotica coming off the presses this month! Now, Renee and I are gonna run a special contest on our loop, with info on it posted to the CP readers loop. That said, throughout the entire month of October, CP will be having surprise contests at whim on the readers loop!

The first one, I'm mentioning here first. There is a special coupon this month: JOL06. Use it in honor of our Jacks. On October 31, Renee and I will pick FIVE lucky winners at random from the CP loop members. Each of them will win a FREE CP E-BOOK!!!

So, come join in the revelry!

Changeling Press Reader's Loop

Emma Ray

Renee George Newsletter and Contest for October

Well, I've posted my October newsletter! Why don't you all go and check it out. You can also view it without subscribing in the news section of my website. But, I host a monthly contest for the yahoo subscribers (one subscriber is chosen to receive a $5 gift credit for Changeling Press every month!). I also have a new contest for October up at the website where I am giving away a $15 gift credit for Changeling Press books!

The contests are easy and more of a thank you for dear readers and fans of erotic ebooks!

Happy October every one!

Hugs,
Renee George

Why we love shapeshifters - CONTEST!

Okay, I love shapeshifters. Everything from dragons, to cats, to wolves, Egyptian sphinxes.... and Changeling Press has a lot to offer. =)

How do YOU feel about shapeshifters? I'm looking for top ten reasons to love shapeshifters for the November edition of A Cheeky Changeling - the official ezine of Changeling Press (http://www.changelingpress.com/ezine).

Post your reasons and on Saturday (10/7), I'll pick that top ten. Nine will get a ebook of their choice from Changeling Press. The top winner? How about a $25 gift certificate for Changeling Press. That would set you up with some good reads a chilly, spooky October!

Okay, so talk to me. What's so great about shapeshifters....?

Isy

The Save The Quiet Kitty Auction is ON, Baby!

The Save The Quiet Kitty Fund helps authors in medical and/or financial crisis.

Various authors around the world have donated items for a Celebrity eBay Auction. All proceeds go to the Save the Quiet Kitty fund, which will be used to help authors in need.

The auction is now LIVE. Show your support and get some really cool items (autographed books, jewelry, bath sets, and more!):

http://search.ebay.com/_W0QQsassZsavethequietkitty

Please read more about the Save The Quiet Kitty Fund.