THK: Tell me about yourself.
KH: I’m vegetarian New Englander who enjoys reading and writing romance, especially paranormal and science fiction. I also love horror and fantasy and enjoy exercising and listening to most kinds of music.
THK: Tell me about your current and upcoming releases. Please include a blurb and a link to where the book can be purchased.
KH: My latest book is Silky’s Master, which is scheduled to release this month. It’s an erotic science fiction romance and the second book in the Alpha Delicious series. Here’ s a brief summary of the story:
Undercover in the royal palace of Amazurn, Silky, a reporter, tries to gather evidence of abuse suffered by Princess Voluptia's harem boys. Invited to the Princess' secret sanctuary where men are used as sex slaves, she meets the former gladiator Shawn-Dan Dawn who has been imprisoned there.
The passion between Silky and Shawn is stronger than an exploding star, but dangerous to them both. When the Princess abducts the Queen's lover, Silky risks arrest to free Shawn and expose the secret harem.
Silky’s Master is from Changeling Press.
http://www.changelingpress.com/product.php?&upt=book&ubid=1509
THK: What genre do you write? What drew you to write in that genre? If you mix genres tell us about that too.
KH: I write erotic romance in a variety of subgenres, including science fiction, paranormal, fantasy and historical. I’ve also written some traditional romances, both historical and paranormal. These are also my favorite genres to read, which is the reason I enjoy writing them as well.
THK: How many books have you written? How many have been published?
KH: I’m not sure exactly how many stories I’ve written, but I have had around 100 published, including novellas and novels.
THK: What would you say is your most interesting writing quirk?
KH: I like to “live” with the characters I’m writing. For instance, whatever happens throughout the day, I think about how the character would react in the same situation. It’s one of the ways I get to know the characters and develop them for the books.
THK: What is the hardest part of writing?
KH: Meeting deadlines!
THK: What do you read for fun when you’re not writing?
KH: I enjoy romance, horror and fantasy.
THK: Any words of encouragement for unpublished writers?
KH: I’d say if writing is what you want to do, just keep doing it. I’m not sure if that advice really makes sense because if you love to write, you won’t be able to stop!
Website: http://www.kate-hill.com
Blog: http://www.kate-hill.com/blog
Twitter: http://www.twitter.com/katehillromance
Myspace: http://www.myspace.com/katehillromance
Yahoogroup: http://groups.yahoo.com/group/katehill/
Thanks again to Kate Hill for being my guest today:)
Sunday, December 12, 2010
Tuesday, November 23, 2010
Get your bird on
Traditional Stuffed Turkey
12 to 14 pound turkey with the giblets reserved
1 lemon, halved
salt and pepper
butter, melted
Meat Stuffing:
4 to 6 Tablespoons butter
2 onions, finely chopped
6 ounce lean ground lamb
reserved turkey heart and liver, finely chopped
1 pound fresh chestnuts
2 cups strained turkey broth
1/2 cup raw unprocessed rice
1 lamb liver, minced
1 cup fresh bread crumbs
2 cooking apples, peeled, cored and finely chopped
Take fresh chestnuts and slit the base of each shell crosswise, boiled for 5 minutes, peel and break into small pieces.
To make broth: simmering the reserved turkey neck and gizzard in 3 cups water for 45 minutes, then strain turkey broth.
Wash the turkey in cold water, pat it dry inside and out, and leave it for 30 minutes while you cook your stuffing.
For the stuffing, heat the butter in a skillet and fry the onions until they begin to change color, then add the ground lamb and simmer gently for 15 minutes. Add the turkey heart and liver, the chestnuts, and pine nuts and simmer for another 5 minutes. Add the broth and bring this to a boil. Add the rice and cook quickly for 10 minutes, then add the lamb liver, bread crumbs, and apples. Stir well.
To stuff the turkey, slit the skin at the back of the neck and cut off the neck down to the turkey's shoulders if the neck has not already been removed. Lightly fill the cavity, remembering that the stuffing always swells and too much swelling might cause the neck skin to burst. Sew or pin with a skewer the neck flap to the back of the turkey. Just as lightly, fill the body cavity, and sew or skewer this together.
Tie the legs to the tail and fix the wings snugly to the body. Do not bring the cord across the breast lest it mark the skin. Rub the turkey cut with lemon, salt, pepper and melted butter and place it in a large, shallow pan in a moderate oven (preheat to 350 degrees, then lower temperature to 325 degrees). Roast it according to its weight when stuffed, allowing 25 to 30 minutes per pound.
Extra stuffing can be roasted in a pan for 45 minutes or so and served with the turkey. Or it can be made into rissoles by shaping it into small balls, dipping then into beaten egg and bread crumbs, and then frying them in butter, to be served as a garnish.
Cooking Turkey
Roasting Turkey Cook until temperature reaches 170 degrees F in the breast and 180 degrees F in the thigh. Cooking times are for planning purposes only - always use a meat thermometer to determine doneness.
Turkey Thawing Hints from the National Turkey Federation
Turkeys can be thawed using one of three methods, but the most fool proof is in the refrigerator. The key to this method is to plan ahead and allow approximately 24 hours for every four to five pounds of bird weight for thawing in the refrigerator. This method is the safest and will result in the best finished product. Place the bird, in the original wrapping, on a shallow baking sheet in the refrigerator. The following chart provides good guidelines for thawing times.
Refrigerator Turkey Thawing Time (40 degrees F)
Turkey Weight Days to Allow for Thawing Turkey
8 to 12 pounds 2 to 2.5 days
12 to 16 pounds 2.5 to 4 days
16 to 20 pounds 4 to 5 days
20 to 24 pounds 5 to 6 days
If you need to thaw the turkey more quickly, you may thaw the bird in COLD water, in the original wrapping. The cold water must be changed every 30 minutes. Allow approximately 30 minutes per pound using this method.
COLD Water Turkey Thawing Time
Turkey Weight Hours to Allow for Thawing Turkey
8 to 12 pounds 4 to 6 hours
12 to 16 pounds 6 to 8 hours
16 to 20 pounds 8 to 10 hours
20 to 24 pounds 10 to 12 hours
The third safe method for thawing a turkey is in the microwave. Follow the manufacturer's directions and roast the turkey immediately after thawing.
Honey-Basted Roast Turkey Recipe
1 small turkey, 10 to 12 pounds
2 T. peanut oil
1/2 t. ground sage
1/2 t. ground allspice
Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
1 small bunch green onions
3 to 4 T. honey
Garnish: Decorative string of cranberries and bay leaves or sage leaves (optional)
Preheat oven to 350° F.
Remove giblets from turkey (reserve for gravy, recipe follows). Rinse turkey and pat dry. Rub inside and out with oil. Season with sage, allspice, salt and pepper. Stuff neck and body cavities with onions and truss, if desired. Place turkey in roasting pan. Roast, allowing 18 to 20 minutes per pound, until juices run clear with no hint of pink when thigh is pierced.
During the last hour of cooking, baste turkey 2 to 3 times with honey.
Serve with pan gravy and garnish with decorative string of cranberries and bay leaves or sage leaves, if desired.
Makes 8 to 10 servings.
Giblet Pan Gravy
Turkey neck and giblets
3 C. water
2 celery tops
2 green onions
Pan juices from roasted turkey
4 teaspoons cornstarch, dissolved in 2 tablespoons cold water
Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
Place neck and giblets, except the liver, in a saucepan with water, celery tops and green onions.
Chop liver and reserve. Bring water to a boil over medium heat. Reduce heat and simmer over medium-low heat for about 40 minutes or until giblets are tender. Strain broth and reserve.
Chop cooked giblets and combine with chopped liver.
In the same saucepan, bring 2 cups combined pan juices and giblet broth to a boil.
Stir in chopped giblets and cornstarch-water mixture. Cook gravy over medium heat, stirring often, until thickened.
Season to taste with salt and pepper.
12 to 14 pound turkey with the giblets reserved
1 lemon, halved
salt and pepper
butter, melted
Meat Stuffing:
4 to 6 Tablespoons butter
2 onions, finely chopped
6 ounce lean ground lamb
reserved turkey heart and liver, finely chopped
1 pound fresh chestnuts
2 cups strained turkey broth
1/2 cup raw unprocessed rice
1 lamb liver, minced
1 cup fresh bread crumbs
2 cooking apples, peeled, cored and finely chopped
Take fresh chestnuts and slit the base of each shell crosswise, boiled for 5 minutes, peel and break into small pieces.
To make broth: simmering the reserved turkey neck and gizzard in 3 cups water for 45 minutes, then strain turkey broth.
Wash the turkey in cold water, pat it dry inside and out, and leave it for 30 minutes while you cook your stuffing.
For the stuffing, heat the butter in a skillet and fry the onions until they begin to change color, then add the ground lamb and simmer gently for 15 minutes. Add the turkey heart and liver, the chestnuts, and pine nuts and simmer for another 5 minutes. Add the broth and bring this to a boil. Add the rice and cook quickly for 10 minutes, then add the lamb liver, bread crumbs, and apples. Stir well.
To stuff the turkey, slit the skin at the back of the neck and cut off the neck down to the turkey's shoulders if the neck has not already been removed. Lightly fill the cavity, remembering that the stuffing always swells and too much swelling might cause the neck skin to burst. Sew or pin with a skewer the neck flap to the back of the turkey. Just as lightly, fill the body cavity, and sew or skewer this together.
Tie the legs to the tail and fix the wings snugly to the body. Do not bring the cord across the breast lest it mark the skin. Rub the turkey cut with lemon, salt, pepper and melted butter and place it in a large, shallow pan in a moderate oven (preheat to 350 degrees, then lower temperature to 325 degrees). Roast it according to its weight when stuffed, allowing 25 to 30 minutes per pound.
Extra stuffing can be roasted in a pan for 45 minutes or so and served with the turkey. Or it can be made into rissoles by shaping it into small balls, dipping then into beaten egg and bread crumbs, and then frying them in butter, to be served as a garnish.
Cooking Turkey
Roasting Turkey Cook until temperature reaches 170 degrees F in the breast and 180 degrees F in the thigh. Cooking times are for planning purposes only - always use a meat thermometer to determine doneness.
Turkey Thawing Hints from the National Turkey Federation
Turkeys can be thawed using one of three methods, but the most fool proof is in the refrigerator. The key to this method is to plan ahead and allow approximately 24 hours for every four to five pounds of bird weight for thawing in the refrigerator. This method is the safest and will result in the best finished product. Place the bird, in the original wrapping, on a shallow baking sheet in the refrigerator. The following chart provides good guidelines for thawing times.
Refrigerator Turkey Thawing Time (40 degrees F)
Turkey Weight Days to Allow for Thawing Turkey
8 to 12 pounds 2 to 2.5 days
12 to 16 pounds 2.5 to 4 days
16 to 20 pounds 4 to 5 days
20 to 24 pounds 5 to 6 days
If you need to thaw the turkey more quickly, you may thaw the bird in COLD water, in the original wrapping. The cold water must be changed every 30 minutes. Allow approximately 30 minutes per pound using this method.
COLD Water Turkey Thawing Time
Turkey Weight Hours to Allow for Thawing Turkey
8 to 12 pounds 4 to 6 hours
12 to 16 pounds 6 to 8 hours
16 to 20 pounds 8 to 10 hours
20 to 24 pounds 10 to 12 hours
The third safe method for thawing a turkey is in the microwave. Follow the manufacturer's directions and roast the turkey immediately after thawing.
Honey-Basted Roast Turkey Recipe
1 small turkey, 10 to 12 pounds
2 T. peanut oil
1/2 t. ground sage
1/2 t. ground allspice
Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
1 small bunch green onions
3 to 4 T. honey
Garnish: Decorative string of cranberries and bay leaves or sage leaves (optional)
Preheat oven to 350° F.
Remove giblets from turkey (reserve for gravy, recipe follows). Rinse turkey and pat dry. Rub inside and out with oil. Season with sage, allspice, salt and pepper. Stuff neck and body cavities with onions and truss, if desired. Place turkey in roasting pan. Roast, allowing 18 to 20 minutes per pound, until juices run clear with no hint of pink when thigh is pierced.
During the last hour of cooking, baste turkey 2 to 3 times with honey.
Serve with pan gravy and garnish with decorative string of cranberries and bay leaves or sage leaves, if desired.
Makes 8 to 10 servings.
Giblet Pan Gravy
Turkey neck and giblets
3 C. water
2 celery tops
2 green onions
Pan juices from roasted turkey
4 teaspoons cornstarch, dissolved in 2 tablespoons cold water
Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
Place neck and giblets, except the liver, in a saucepan with water, celery tops and green onions.
Chop liver and reserve. Bring water to a boil over medium heat. Reduce heat and simmer over medium-low heat for about 40 minutes or until giblets are tender. Strain broth and reserve.
Chop cooked giblets and combine with chopped liver.
In the same saucepan, bring 2 cups combined pan juices and giblet broth to a boil.
Stir in chopped giblets and cornstarch-water mixture. Cook gravy over medium heat, stirring often, until thickened.
Season to taste with salt and pepper.
Monday, November 22, 2010
Guest Author, Mary Eason
Please welcome today's guest, Mary Eason:)
Book Title: In The Arms Of A Stranger
Book Title: In The Arms Of A Stranger
Release Date: September 24, 2010
Authors: Mary Eason
Author websites: http://www.maryeason.com/
Publisher: New Concepts Publishing
Genre: Contemporary Romance
Blurb: Everything Kate Bradshaw believed to be real about her marriage to her husband Alex slowly slipped away from her as the newspaper reports explained the sordid truth in black and white. Their marriage and Alex's seduction had been nothing more than a lie, a means of accomplishing one thing--Alex's revenge against the man he believed responsible for killing his one true love--Kate's own father.
Welcome Mary Eason, thank you for joining me. I hear you have a new book coming out soon?
Yes, in fact, In The Arms Of A Stranger is out now at New Concepts Publishing. It released, September 24th.
Tell me about the heart of your story, "In The Arms Of A Stranger".
In The Arms Of A Stranger is about two people who have been hurt in the past and are afraid to trust in love again. Kate Alexander fell in love with the wrong man when she was in college and since then, she's been on a self-imposed exile from men. Meeting Alex Bradshaw for the first time, Kate believes Alex is too good to be true. By the time, Alex asks her to marry him she's crazy in love and completely unaware of the secrets her husband possesses.
Alex Bradshaw is a man set on revenge. Kate Alexander is the woman who can help him accomplish this plan. But, what Alex hadn't planned on was falling in love with Kate. Now, Alex has to convince Kate that his feelings for her are real and not just part of his plan for revenge before he loses Kate forever.
What is your darkest moment in the novel without giving too much away?
The darkest moment occurs when Kate finally realizes she's been wrong about Alex all along. She's afraid that realization may have come too late and that Alex might have finally given up on making their marriage work.
Why do you write and when did you start?
I started writing as a pre-teen. It was a little after I first started reading romance novels. I loved everything about them. Soon, I wrote my first romance novel, filled with the usual clichés, but I was hooked from that moment on.
What is your process when you write a novel?
I usually start with an idea. It might come to me from something I've seen on TV, read about, or even in a dream, (as crazy as that sounds, I've created lots of stories from dreams). With the premise in mind, I take a few days to let the story develop in my head before putting it down on paper. It never fails, the end result, is nothing like what I believed it would be when I started the story.
What do you want your readers to pull away from your story?
I want my readers to be emotionally satisfied when they read those final words of my story. I believe a romance novel should be like a rollercoaster ride. Crazy, exciting, a thrill ride of emotion. And when it's over, it should leave you with a smile.
Is there someone in your immediate family or a friend that reads your material as you write? A sounding board?
Nope, I'm kinda a lone wolf when it comes to writing. I prefer to work alone.
What is a really romantic evening for you?
Sitting outside watching the stars at night with my hubby. And when its cold out, snuggled together in a blanket with a sky full of stars.
If there were one word to describe you, what would it be?
If there were one word to describe you, what would it be?
Sentimental. I'm a very sentimental person. I find, as I get older, that increases.
Tell us about your next project.
Tell us about your next project.
I love romantic suspense stories. Both reading and writing them. I'm about halfway through my next romantic suspense novel that is about a woman who is given the heart of a former spy and with that heart, comes the spy's memories of her murder and of the man she loves.
Thank you for stopping by, , we hope to see you again and wish you great success! Anything else you want to tell your readers today?
Only that readers can check out my latest work as well as learn about my latest contest on my website. I'm giving away an e-book copy of In The Arms Of A Stranger there this month. So, stop by and check it out: www.maryeason.com
Thanks so much for letting me drop in this week.
Mary Eason
www.maryeason.com
www.maryeason.blogspot.com
Saturday, November 20, 2010
Don't judge me by my myspace
I'm still around, just not on myspace. lol I've been working really hard to get new books finished and others in the works. If you've sent me a message through myspace, I will answer eventually, I promise. The best way to contact me if you have questions about books and such is through the link on my website www.traceyhkitts.com. I check that usually once a week at least. I'm rarely on myspace simply because it won't load half the time and even when it does at least half of the features don't work. Thanks to these non-working features, I haven't been able to keep my page updated. Hopefully, I'll get to change that soon:)
Anyway, enough complaining about myspace. I just signed another contract with Ellora's Cave:) It's for a book called Fate's Embrace. It's got a sexy wizard and a wicked hot werewolf. And right smack in the middle? Well, we've got a witch who had no idea this is where she'd end up.
After I submitted Fate's Embrace (before I got the new contract) I also submitted a new work to New Concepts Publishing. It's called Three Days of Night. It's a futuristic paranormal. It takes place 300 years in the future when vampires are an endangered species.
Like I said, busy, busy, busy. Once again, I apologize to those of you who have been waiting on a message. Most of the time that feature does not load on myspace no matter how hard I try. But I love hearing from readers and I thank you so much for taking the time to write to me.
Well, I've started to ramble. Guess I'm off to watch some of The Shield. Is it just me or is Vic Mackey kinda sexy? lol
Anyway, enough complaining about myspace. I just signed another contract with Ellora's Cave:) It's for a book called Fate's Embrace. It's got a sexy wizard and a wicked hot werewolf. And right smack in the middle? Well, we've got a witch who had no idea this is where she'd end up.
After I submitted Fate's Embrace (before I got the new contract) I also submitted a new work to New Concepts Publishing. It's called Three Days of Night. It's a futuristic paranormal. It takes place 300 years in the future when vampires are an endangered species.
Like I said, busy, busy, busy. Once again, I apologize to those of you who have been waiting on a message. Most of the time that feature does not load on myspace no matter how hard I try. But I love hearing from readers and I thank you so much for taking the time to write to me.
Well, I've started to ramble. Guess I'm off to watch some of The Shield. Is it just me or is Vic Mackey kinda sexy? lol
Thursday, November 18, 2010
Thursday Thirteen
Today I decided to participate in the Thursday Thirteen for the very first time:) Since I'm new to this, I wasn't sure if I should post on the same topic as other people or just come up with something else. So, I decided to do my own thing and make it fun. This is a list of thirteen comic book characters that I would have sex with if given the chance. LOL
Yes, I'm a nerd. Go ahead and laugh. Btw, the order they're listed in is not necessarily how I'd pick 'em. hahahaha
1. The Joker - Yes, I know. Go ahead and make fun. He's my own madness magnified and I've always thought that was sexy.
2. Batman - Not sure why, but I gotta have him. I think it might be all the black body armor. Or maybe it's the cape.
3. Wolverine - Hell yeah. All rough and rugged and manly.
4. Mr. Fantastic - I just want to see if everything stretches, okay?
5. Magneto - Yes, he's wicked. But half the time I agree with him. It's not so much his appearance, but his attitude that I find just flat sexy.
6. Iron Man - He's a jerk for sure, but he's a hot one. lol
7. Big Daddy - That's right, I'm talking about the guy from the movie Kick Ass. Besides the fact that he was played by Nicholas Cage, I think the character was kinda hot. I know some would argue that this isn't a real superhero, blah, blah, blah. But, it's my list and I want Big Daddy on it. So, HA!
8. Dare Devil - Loving that tight red suit:)
9. Hell Boy - Seriously, there's just something about him. I love his attitude too.
10. Blade - If he's just like Wesley Snipes, need I say more?
11. Beast - This is the blue guy from X-Men. Once again, it's mostly his mind I'm attracted to. I'd always have someone to talk to. I also don't mind all the hair. lol
12. Night Owl - I know he's from Watchmen and that's a graphic novel, not a comic. Get over it, he goes on the list too. lol
13. Jonah Hex - That's right, the face doesn't bother me. But, he'd have to be the Josh Brolin incarnation:) That man is sexy as hell, even with half a face.
Now that everyone's had a good laugh, care to participate? Blog your own Thursday Thirteen and leave me a link in the comments:)
Yes, I'm a nerd. Go ahead and laugh. Btw, the order they're listed in is not necessarily how I'd pick 'em. hahahaha
1. The Joker - Yes, I know. Go ahead and make fun. He's my own madness magnified and I've always thought that was sexy.
2. Batman - Not sure why, but I gotta have him. I think it might be all the black body armor. Or maybe it's the cape.
3. Wolverine - Hell yeah. All rough and rugged and manly.
4. Mr. Fantastic - I just want to see if everything stretches, okay?
5. Magneto - Yes, he's wicked. But half the time I agree with him. It's not so much his appearance, but his attitude that I find just flat sexy.
6. Iron Man - He's a jerk for sure, but he's a hot one. lol
7. Big Daddy - That's right, I'm talking about the guy from the movie Kick Ass. Besides the fact that he was played by Nicholas Cage, I think the character was kinda hot. I know some would argue that this isn't a real superhero, blah, blah, blah. But, it's my list and I want Big Daddy on it. So, HA!
8. Dare Devil - Loving that tight red suit:)
9. Hell Boy - Seriously, there's just something about him. I love his attitude too.
10. Blade - If he's just like Wesley Snipes, need I say more?
11. Beast - This is the blue guy from X-Men. Once again, it's mostly his mind I'm attracted to. I'd always have someone to talk to. I also don't mind all the hair. lol
12. Night Owl - I know he's from Watchmen and that's a graphic novel, not a comic. Get over it, he goes on the list too. lol
13. Jonah Hex - That's right, the face doesn't bother me. But, he'd have to be the Josh Brolin incarnation:) That man is sexy as hell, even with half a face.
Now that everyone's had a good laugh, care to participate? Blog your own Thursday Thirteen and leave me a link in the comments:)
Wednesday, November 17, 2010
How about a little Breakfast by the Sea?
Jekyll Island is on Red Alert: These Tough and Sexy Operatives Will Leave the Island Forever Changed
On rare occasions, a writer will pen something they can’t seem to leave behind after they type out the ending. Breakfast by the Sea is one of those books. Jeff Jacobsen, the lead Alpha-male hero in the novel is forever embedded in my mind. The story, the characters, and the setting will remain in my head for years to come.
When writing a ménage romance with more than two heroes, I tend to lean toward one of these fellows right from the start, but after reviewing my notes for the novel, I never thought this would be an obstacle in this particular novel and for various reasons.
When the characters were developed, I fell in love with each of these men, feeling like they were the boys next door. These operatives were cowboys with plenty of heart. They were willing to take up arms and fight for what they believe in and more than willing to die for the person they were standing beside, especially when one of their own, a brother more than a friend, counted on them for their protection.
As much as I tried to keep Jeff Jacobsen on common ground with the others, he kept pressing his way to the forefront and mainly because there was so much story to tell about his past; too much to reveal and a lot of layers to uncover. The man behind the operative chased the demons he desperately needed to overcome and once Paige revealed her place in his life, I was toast. Jeff was mine.
Even though Jeff Jacobsen emerged as the leading hero, Callan O’Bree won over several beta readers from the start. He was noted as the perfect Irishman—handsome, charming, and full of mischief. Miles is said to be intelligent with a dry sense of humor certain to win over his own crowd. As for Adam, our fearless Super-Ops leader, he has a definite fan club for various reasons. I can’t reveal those without giving away a few spoilers.
In the end, I think readers will be very surprised at the turn of events between Paige Lambert, our heroine, and Connor, one of the heroes who could’ve easily emerged as our leading man. The way the tables turn between Connor and Paige is one of my favorite parts in the story. I think you’ll see the underlying significance of their relationship and agree, the final scene between Paige and Connor lays the groundwork for an incredibly sweet happy ending.
I’m proud of Breakfast by the Sea and hope you’ll consider purchasing this book while it’s on sale at a tremendous 15% savings. I’m anxious to introduce ‘my boys’ to you and hope you’ll love them as much as I do. Breakfast by the Sea is available today at Siren-Bookstrand.
Destiny Blaine/Natalie Acres
http://www.bookstrand.com/destiny-blaine
http://www.bookstrand.com/natalie-acres
Natalie Acres is one of the pseudonyms for Destiny Blaine. Natalie’s books Sex Party, Sex Games, and Cowboy Boots and Untamed Hearts became the #1 Best Selling Erotica and #1 Best Selling Western books on Amazon soon after their initial release dates . Destiny Blaine’s western ménage books Domination Plantation (Aspen Mountain Press) and A Matter Among Four (Siren Publishing) have captured and claimed best selling spots on various third party retailers. Destiny Blaine is also credited for being one of the first authors of sports romance. Her sports romance books are available now at Siren-Bookstrand.
©2010 Destiny Blaine
Blurb for Breakfast by the Sea:
A beautiful woman with a checkered past runs a legitimate bed and breakfast on Jekyll Island. Several young men posing as cowboys move in Breakfast by the Sea and things become chaotic right from the start when the oceanfront B&B turns into a command center for a very determined group of special Super-Op Forces.
Pursuing a man known as the King of Hearts, five tough operatives fall for a woman they’re supposed to eliminate. When the team discovers Paige Lambert is in fact the Queen of Hearts, they can’t ignore their handler’s orders. Is the bed and breakfast owner destined to die for her past crimes or will she end up under the protective custody of the men hired to kill her?
Excerpt:
He felt like he’d just laid eyes on her for the first time. He started at her chin, noticing the way the dark brown hair curved under her jaw, a lock of hair so delicate but there nonetheless, like it was clinging for dear life. Was that what Paige was doing? Was she frightened? Was she running scared?
His gaze traveled down her long, slender neck. He admired how she held her head high, the structure of her slender collarbone leading to a bare chest with plenty for a man to enjoy. Before he indulged too much, Paige knelt down and retrieved her clothes, shrugging into a sports bra, one she had to yank over those full mounds in order to secure them.
Damn. She was right. Snapping that neck of hers would be a terrible waste.
That’s when his mouth watered. Why hadn’t he gawked when she’d been topless? And why did he find her sexy as all fucking hell right then?
Her flat stomach made him itch. He’d love to kiss around her sunken belly button and insinuate a slow sex act, make her arch for him, beg him for more.
Finally, he studied the band of her shorts. What he’d give to lick and tease his way a little lower, strip away those shorts and show her what she’d been missing. Maybe in her body, he’d find what he’d been looking for all along. Perhaps he needed to fuck a woman he wasn’t later expected to kill. Then again, he couldn’t be so sure that order wouldn’t come.
Stop thinking!
“Is something wrong?” she asked, batting her eyelashes.
“No,” he replied, storming ahead of her. Suddenly, he wondered why she followed him then when she hadn’t trailed behind him before. He stopped, turned around, and shook his finger again. “Don’t you dare run. I’d like to have breakfast before we do that again.”
“Okay,” she said, catching up and walking beside him. “Want to answer my question now?”
“Which one?”
“How can you keep up with me?”
“Wouldn’t you like to know,” he growled.
“I’m asking.”
“I’m in great shape.”
“I can tell.”
Jeff stopped at the bottom of the steps. “Is that you coming on to me?”
She sashayed by him. “No, Jeff. That was me trying to figure out how I can outrun you next time.”
“There won’t be a next time,” he told her, grabbing her from behind and slamming her against the steps, bracing her back with his large hands.
His breath matched hers. The move knocked the wind out of both of them.
“Now what?”
“I’m not going to kiss you,” he said, thinking he wouldn’t put up much of a fight if she laid one on him.
She moistened her lips. “I didn’t think so,” she whispered, arching her neck. “What if I kiss you?”
“Is that what you’re planning to do? You have the rest of these guys by the balls, and since I’m not turning tricks to taste the pudding, what ’cha gonna do, darlin’, offer me a spoon?”
“I don’t understand your riddles,” she stated flatly, licking those full, enticing lips once more.
“Let me give you a warning. I’m the real thing, sweetheart. I’m in Jekyll Island to work. It’s something all of us do very well when we don’t have a distraction. Now, since I’ve been assigned to you for the time being, I’m setting you straight. You’ll do what I tell you, and you’ll do it with a wide smile to boot. Understand?”
“Or you’ll what?”
“I told you what I’d do. If you want to see how much I enjoy skinny-dipping, pull one of your stunts again. I’ll drag you into that ocean and make sure every tourist within ten miles hears you when you scream.”
“I already heard the guys talking. You wouldn’t rape me,” she said, narrowing her gaze and proving then that she wasn’t so sure.
“Rape? Hell, no. You’ll respond to me like a bitch in heat. I have a way about me.”
“Really? Who would’ve thought?” she asked diabolically, moving her lips to his ear. “Who can I ask to verify this? Hmm? Have you left any of your past lovers alive? Because if you have, I’d love to give them a call and invite them to join me for tea.”
Buy Link: http://www.bookstrand.com/breakfast-by-the-sea
Saturday, October 9, 2010
Something Wild made it to Roud 2
Woohoo!!! First I'd like to thank everyone who voted for Something Wild in Round 1. It's so awesome to have made it this far. But the contest isn't over yet. Please stop by and cast your vote for Round 2. The 32 finalists have been narrowed down to 16, including me:)
https://www.allromanceebooks.com/contest.html
https://www.allromanceebooks.com/contest.html
Wednesday, October 6, 2010
New Release: Sex Symbol
This is my first release with Ellora's Cave:) Woohoo!
http://www.jasminejade.com/p-8698-sex-symbol.aspx
Sex Symbol is the story of Lucy Harper, an ordinary woman who suddenly finds herself in extraordinary circumstances. Not only is her new boyfriend a werewolf, but her new tattoo might be more than a picture of her favorite flower. According to the local werewolf pack, it’s a “sex symbol.”
http://www.jasminejade.com/p-8698-sex-symbol.aspx
Sex Symbol is the story of Lucy Harper, an ordinary woman who suddenly finds herself in extraordinary circumstances. Not only is her new boyfriend a werewolf, but her new tattoo might be more than a picture of her favorite flower. According to the local werewolf pack, it’s a “sex symbol.”
Friday, October 1, 2010
Just One Bite Contest
Yesterday, I was thrilled to learn that my short story Something Wild has made it to the finals. Something Wild, an erotic paranormal short has been selected by the judges as one of 32 finalists in All Romance Ebooks’ Just One Bite contest.
When I entered, I honestly never expected to make it this far. I’m both shocked and thrilled at the same time, which makes me kinda dizzy. lol When you get a chance, please vote. I’m not going to ask that you vote for me, but please read Something Wild and if you enjoy it, your vote is very much appreciated.
All that is required to vote is that you log into your existing ARe accounts, or open one if you don't already have one. It is free and easy to sign up for an ARe user account. Plus, if I advance forward from round one, you can vote for me again in round two, and round three, etc...
Voting closes for round one Oct. 7th.
Friday, August 20, 2010
Lilith Mercury Book 5 is on sale at Fictionwise
Right now you can get A Dream Forbidden for 15% off. It is available in any ereader format.
http://www.fictionwise.com/ebooks/b112585/Lilith-Mercury-Book-5/Tracey-H-Kitts/?si=0
http://www.fictionwise.com/ebooks/b112585/Lilith-Mercury-Book-5/Tracey-H-Kitts/?si=0
It is also available for pre-order in print at http://www.newconceptspublishing.com/
Enjoy!
Monday, August 16, 2010
"Real" writing
I'll never understand why so many people think that writing romance isn't "real" writing. Is it just that they are uncomfortable writing about feelings maybe? I mean, if you're going to love you have to feel something and what good is a book that doesn't describe what the main character feels?
Any writing (if it's good), regardless of genre requires effort. I respect anyone who puts the time and energy into writing that it deserves. It never ceases to irritate me when someone turns up their nose at my hard work just because it's romance. Or when the "nose turning" is immediately followed by a statement like, "Anyone can write romance."
No, they really can't. But apparently anyone can critique it.
Any writing (if it's good), regardless of genre requires effort. I respect anyone who puts the time and energy into writing that it deserves. It never ceases to irritate me when someone turns up their nose at my hard work just because it's romance. Or when the "nose turning" is immediately followed by a statement like, "Anyone can write romance."
No, they really can't. But apparently anyone can critique it.
Thursday, August 12, 2010
How to get encouraged
It's very difficult at times to remember that I write because I love it, not because it pays all my bills. Of course it would be wonderful if I could make a living doing what I love. And one day I plan to be able to do just that. In the meantime, it's hard. Sometimes I stare at a page and wonder why I bother. (Espeically when my books keep getting pirated and my royalty checks keep shrinking.) Then I get a note from a reader who likes my books and remember that someone out there is listening. So, I go back to my keyboard with my heart full of encouragement and start again.
Tuesday, August 10, 2010
Lilith Mercury is not paying my bills
For those of you who know the series, I'm sure you'll understand what this post is about by the title. I just wanted to say how much I appreciate the letters asking when the next book will be and letting me know how much you enjoy it. I love Lilith too. My heart has always been in this story, but unfortunately, it isn't paying the bills.
I don't plan to stop writing the series, but there will be a significant delay in the next book. I won't lie to you. I have to make some money. It's not about greed, it's about survival. If I plan to continue writing (and I'd like to) then I have to write what sells. As of now, that is not Lilith Mercury.
I feel like fans of the series deserve to know what's going on. Please understand that I'm not abandoning you. I just don't want to be homeless.
I don't plan to stop writing the series, but there will be a significant delay in the next book. I won't lie to you. I have to make some money. It's not about greed, it's about survival. If I plan to continue writing (and I'd like to) then I have to write what sells. As of now, that is not Lilith Mercury.
I feel like fans of the series deserve to know what's going on. Please understand that I'm not abandoning you. I just don't want to be homeless.
Thursday, July 29, 2010
The character I identify with most
Okay, I know I should let it go and I promise to get over it soon. The review mentioned in the post below just REALLY bothered me. I'm sure if you read the post that my reasons are obvious. The reviewer calls the book a "Mary Sue" saying that I'm the main character Jewel and then goes on to call her "uninteresting."
Gee, thanks a lot. So, in all fairness I took another look at the story. I already knew that I'm nothing like Jewel. But as I re-read the book I remembered how much fun it was to write Alucard. How I never had to second guess what he would do because I already knew ... because he was the character I most identified with in the story. If it is a Mary Sue in any sense then at least cast me as the proper character. I am Alucard. And his shadow that makes vulgar gestures behind his back. lol I'm sarcastic, have a warped sense of humor, and often dress in black. I also like long coats and have a few in my wardrobe. He's ME for crying out loud. Oh, and I've fantasized about being the boogeyman. lol Probably TMI. Sorry.
One more thing I forgot about Vincent, he transforms into a gargoyle. Yeah, nothing like Jean-Claude, like I already said. Just because one vampire in another book was sexy doesn't mean they made sexy famous.
But after reading the story again and seeing so much of myself in Alucard, it does mean I might need therapy. LOL
Gee, thanks a lot. So, in all fairness I took another look at the story. I already knew that I'm nothing like Jewel. But as I re-read the book I remembered how much fun it was to write Alucard. How I never had to second guess what he would do because I already knew ... because he was the character I most identified with in the story. If it is a Mary Sue in any sense then at least cast me as the proper character. I am Alucard. And his shadow that makes vulgar gestures behind his back. lol I'm sarcastic, have a warped sense of humor, and often dress in black. I also like long coats and have a few in my wardrobe. He's ME for crying out loud. Oh, and I've fantasized about being the boogeyman. lol Probably TMI. Sorry.
One more thing I forgot about Vincent, he transforms into a gargoyle. Yeah, nothing like Jean-Claude, like I already said. Just because one vampire in another book was sexy doesn't mean they made sexy famous.
But after reading the story again and seeing so much of myself in Alucard, it does mean I might need therapy. LOL
Friday, July 23, 2010
My son is growing up and I can't cope
My son is growing up and the strangest thing is happening. I can’t cope. I was already having a hard time dealing with the idea of a girlfriend. Then I cleaned house today. In a box I had completely forgotten about were some pictures that I had also forgotten. Among them the smiling three year old face I had almost forgotten too.
How does that happen? It’s simple really. He gets taller and I get used to looking at that. His hair darkens and I get used to that too. The baby fat disappears and somewhere along the way I forgot how much I missed it.
I used to lay awake at night and wonder when he’d stop waking me up because he had a bad dream. Now I lay awake and wonder why he doesn’t do it anymore. He’s starting to look like a young man and it’s killing me.
I can’t tell you how long I’ve been crying now over that little face in those pictures. Or how much my head hurts because of it. I was young when he was born. Hell, I’m still young now. But I feel so old tonight. I’ve worked so many years to make a life and in the process I feel I’ve missed one. His. Like so many women it was necessary for me to work outside the home. Here I am unemployed again (other than my income from writing) and wondering, what’s the use? What has any of it gotten me?
Sure, I helped to pay the bills. But right now as I look at these pictures I can’t remember what it felt like to hold him as a baby. I can’t recall how “little” his voice sounded. We didn’t own a video camera until he was older so my memories are the only way to ever experience those moments again. But my memory tells me how I put work first. How I always needed sleep instead of time to play because I had to go to work early. To a boss who was an asshole while I left my son with my mother.
Maybe every parent feels this way. I don’t know. What I do know is that I would give anything to have those years back.
I guess what it all boils down to is that my son is growing up … and I can’t cope.
How does that happen? It’s simple really. He gets taller and I get used to looking at that. His hair darkens and I get used to that too. The baby fat disappears and somewhere along the way I forgot how much I missed it.
I used to lay awake at night and wonder when he’d stop waking me up because he had a bad dream. Now I lay awake and wonder why he doesn’t do it anymore. He’s starting to look like a young man and it’s killing me.
I can’t tell you how long I’ve been crying now over that little face in those pictures. Or how much my head hurts because of it. I was young when he was born. Hell, I’m still young now. But I feel so old tonight. I’ve worked so many years to make a life and in the process I feel I’ve missed one. His. Like so many women it was necessary for me to work outside the home. Here I am unemployed again (other than my income from writing) and wondering, what’s the use? What has any of it gotten me?
Sure, I helped to pay the bills. But right now as I look at these pictures I can’t remember what it felt like to hold him as a baby. I can’t recall how “little” his voice sounded. We didn’t own a video camera until he was older so my memories are the only way to ever experience those moments again. But my memory tells me how I put work first. How I always needed sleep instead of time to play because I had to go to work early. To a boss who was an asshole while I left my son with my mother.
Maybe every parent feels this way. I don’t know. What I do know is that I would give anything to have those years back.
I guess what it all boils down to is that my son is growing up … and I can’t cope.
Saturday, June 26, 2010
Since pirates like to share so much
Spread this around. I’ve filed for bankruptcy. Based on the number of times my books were downloaded (and this is just what I know about) I lost roughly $10,000 last year. If each of those downloads had been an actual sale (I know that others will argue the point, I’m saying IF) then I would not have lost my car and would most likely not be having to file bankruptcy now to keep from losing my home.
If you like what I do, don’t steal from me. If I’m homeless, I can’t write. Even if you don’t give a damn about me on a personal level, take into account that I need a place to live in order to write.
I know there are a lot of people out there right now thinking they wouldn’t share this information if it were them. I want pirates to know this. I’m going on the idea that deep down people don’t want to hurt each other. Besides, screaming does no good and I don’t know where they live.
For every person, like me, who speaks up … think how many others keep silent.
If you like what I do, don’t steal from me. If I’m homeless, I can’t write. Even if you don’t give a damn about me on a personal level, take into account that I need a place to live in order to write.
I know there are a lot of people out there right now thinking they wouldn’t share this information if it were them. I want pirates to know this. I’m going on the idea that deep down people don’t want to hurt each other. Besides, screaming does no good and I don’t know where they live.
For every person, like me, who speaks up … think how many others keep silent.
Tuesday, June 1, 2010
And the winner is.....
Violet! I put all the names in a hat and yours was the one I drew:) Congratulations! You've won the bag of swag. lol
Send me an email at tracey h kitts @ yahoo.com (minus the spaces) And let me know where to mail your prize.
Thanks everyone for entering. I'll do another contest soon:)
I'm also participating in the June Jubilee over at Coffee Time Romance. Stop by my Author Corner and take a look at excerpts or Dracula's Drink Recipes.
http://www.coffeetimeromance.com/board/forumdisplay.php?f=1394
Send me an email at tracey h kitts @ yahoo.com (minus the spaces) And let me know where to mail your prize.
Thanks everyone for entering. I'll do another contest soon:)
I'm also participating in the June Jubilee over at Coffee Time Romance. Stop by my Author Corner and take a look at excerpts or Dracula's Drink Recipes.
http://www.coffeetimeromance.com/board/forumdisplay.php?f=1394
Saturday, May 29, 2010
Contest Reminder
Don't forget, it's still not too late to enter my contest to win a "bag of swag." LOL
Here's the original link:
http://traceyhkitts.blogspot.com/2010/05/because-i-feel-like-it-contest.html
A winner will be drawn in three days:) Good luck!
Here's the original link:
http://traceyhkitts.blogspot.com/2010/05/because-i-feel-like-it-contest.html
A winner will be drawn in three days:) Good luck!
Friday, May 28, 2010
Tuesday, May 25, 2010
Monday, May 24, 2010
Saturday, May 22, 2010
Friday, May 21, 2010
Thursday, May 20, 2010
Saturday, May 1, 2010
The "Because I feel like it" contest
That's right, we're having a contest ... because I feel like it. LOL All you've got to do to enter is leave a comment here:)
The prize is an 8 1/2 x 11 envelope stuffed as full as I could get it with author swag. What kind of swag? Well, we've got a sample CD, note pads, pens, lots of bookmarks, autographed items, and business cards just to name a few.
And of course everything is not from me:) This is a mix of goodies from several different authors. So, what are you waiting for? Leave me a comment:)
The prize is an 8 1/2 x 11 envelope stuffed as full as I could get it with author swag. What kind of swag? Well, we've got a sample CD, note pads, pens, lots of bookmarks, autographed items, and business cards just to name a few.
And of course everything is not from me:) This is a mix of goodies from several different authors. So, what are you waiting for? Leave me a comment:)
Thursday, April 8, 2010
He insulted my readers
The rudeness I mentioned yesterday is much worse than I at first thought. When I first read his email I'll admit I was steamed. So much in fact that I skimmed the middle (which was full of snide remarks) and attempted to find the point.
As I read it more closely today (thinking that perhaps I overreacted) I not only found that I'd had the correct response (in my opinion) but that this person also insulted my readers. That is low, really low.
Here is what he said, "I am just as liable to pull in as many like-minded nuckleheads with those character viewpoints as I may alienate those who do not appreciate the comments. Case in point, your writing."
Normally I don't let an angry email or some idiot upset me this much. Actually, I've never gotten an angry email from someone about my work and only one from an unfriendly author.
I think this upsets me so much because I used to work with this person and thought they would be happy that I was published and could maybe offer them a hand. But apparently he'd rather leave teeth marks on my hand and insult my wonderful readers. Btw, those of you I've met or have received letters from are just about the nicest people ever:)
Anyway, I'll get over it. I just wanted people to see a "clip" of what had me so upset. You know, so you guys won't think I'm crazy or anything.
Oh, and he misspelled knucklehead.
As I read it more closely today (thinking that perhaps I overreacted) I not only found that I'd had the correct response (in my opinion) but that this person also insulted my readers. That is low, really low.
Here is what he said, "I am just as liable to pull in as many like-minded nuckleheads with those character viewpoints as I may alienate those who do not appreciate the comments. Case in point, your writing."
Normally I don't let an angry email or some idiot upset me this much. Actually, I've never gotten an angry email from someone about my work and only one from an unfriendly author.
I think this upsets me so much because I used to work with this person and thought they would be happy that I was published and could maybe offer them a hand. But apparently he'd rather leave teeth marks on my hand and insult my wonderful readers. Btw, those of you I've met or have received letters from are just about the nicest people ever:)
Anyway, I'll get over it. I just wanted people to see a "clip" of what had me so upset. You know, so you guys won't think I'm crazy or anything.
Oh, and he misspelled knucklehead.
Wednesday, April 7, 2010
How rude
Someone I used to work with recently sent me a link to their fictional blog. After receiving the link twice I finally had a chance to look at it this morning. I tried for the sake of their feelings to find something nice to say, but couldn't. So, I wasn't going to say anything at all. That is until I read further and became more and more insulted.
Is there anything more infuriating as a reader than having something you find personal (like your heritage or your body) insulted? Even for the purposes of fiction I think it is inexcusable. If you write something and post it or publish it publicly then the purpose should be to entertain. That's just the way I feel about it. If you want to write your personal opinions then don't say it's fiction and have your main character (or in this case ONLY character) insult your audience.
This person states that it is an honor to be southern and that they would not include anyone from Florida or Atlanta in this honor. Oh yeah, I was pissed. I left a comment saying that just ten minutes over the state line into Florida we still consider ourselves southern and so does my family up in Atlanta. I also said that I found the comment insulting. Hey, they asked for my opinion. It was my personal opinion, but I didn't attack them nor did I make the comment "personal" toward them. I was commenting (as I had been asked to do) on the content of the blog.
Next thing you know I get back a page long email full of self-important blather ranting on about that's what they meant to do. That they intended to "alienate" the audience. Um ... you did want people to read this, right?
They ranted for a whole page and then insulted my work personally. This person looks down their nose at romance authors. Okay, my comment was professional and about the content. Their email was just flat rude and uncalled for. Although I can't understand why anyone would want to alienate their audience all they had to say was that what they had done was intentional. End of story. If you are going to write (and I've learned this the hard way) and ask for opinions you will hear some that you don't like. You'd think that they'd rather have a friend point out that they just alienated a large portion of their audience than submit it to an editor and have them say so.
I was trying to help. Would you all like to hear my response to this email? Names have of course been removed to protect the rude, but here is my response. For obvious reasons I have paraphrased their comments, but here is my email in full.
"That (all of that) was not what I was saying at all. The point of any writing (in the public eye)as far as I'm concerned is to compel the reader to read. If you alienate your audience they'll just stop reading.
By pointing out how my writing is "not your cup of tea" you've just insulted me again. If you don't like what I do that's fine, but this wasn't personal and you made it that way. The entire tone of your email is self-important and rude, as is the entire tone of your blog.
Don't worry, I won't make any further comments. Seeing as how your purpose (as you stated) is to make the audience feel alienated on purpose you've accomplished your point. Bravo.
Tracey"
Oh, I left out the part about them calling women who shop at Lane Bryant fat. Rude, rude, rude.
Sorry for the rant, but I was really upset about this.
Is there anything more infuriating as a reader than having something you find personal (like your heritage or your body) insulted? Even for the purposes of fiction I think it is inexcusable. If you write something and post it or publish it publicly then the purpose should be to entertain. That's just the way I feel about it. If you want to write your personal opinions then don't say it's fiction and have your main character (or in this case ONLY character) insult your audience.
This person states that it is an honor to be southern and that they would not include anyone from Florida or Atlanta in this honor. Oh yeah, I was pissed. I left a comment saying that just ten minutes over the state line into Florida we still consider ourselves southern and so does my family up in Atlanta. I also said that I found the comment insulting. Hey, they asked for my opinion. It was my personal opinion, but I didn't attack them nor did I make the comment "personal" toward them. I was commenting (as I had been asked to do) on the content of the blog.
Next thing you know I get back a page long email full of self-important blather ranting on about that's what they meant to do. That they intended to "alienate" the audience. Um ... you did want people to read this, right?
They ranted for a whole page and then insulted my work personally. This person looks down their nose at romance authors. Okay, my comment was professional and about the content. Their email was just flat rude and uncalled for. Although I can't understand why anyone would want to alienate their audience all they had to say was that what they had done was intentional. End of story. If you are going to write (and I've learned this the hard way) and ask for opinions you will hear some that you don't like. You'd think that they'd rather have a friend point out that they just alienated a large portion of their audience than submit it to an editor and have them say so.
I was trying to help. Would you all like to hear my response to this email? Names have of course been removed to protect the rude, but here is my response. For obvious reasons I have paraphrased their comments, but here is my email in full.
"That (all of that) was not what I was saying at all. The point of any writing (in the public eye)as far as I'm concerned is to compel the reader to read. If you alienate your audience they'll just stop reading.
By pointing out how my writing is "not your cup of tea" you've just insulted me again. If you don't like what I do that's fine, but this wasn't personal and you made it that way. The entire tone of your email is self-important and rude, as is the entire tone of your blog.
Don't worry, I won't make any further comments. Seeing as how your purpose (as you stated) is to make the audience feel alienated on purpose you've accomplished your point. Bravo.
Tracey"
Oh, I left out the part about them calling women who shop at Lane Bryant fat. Rude, rude, rude.
Sorry for the rant, but I was really upset about this.
Wednesday, March 31, 2010
How do you write when you're broken?
How do you write when you’re broken? That’s the question I have been pondering lately. It seems that every time I start to climb up something knocks me back down. I’ve been down so much lately that I’m starting to get a crick in my neck from trying to look up.
I don’t share a lot of personal information because … well, I just don’t. Without getting into specific detail I will say that more plans have fallen through. Plans that I really needed to work, not just to further my career, but to survive. My family has suffered, my writing has suffered … I have suffered.
I have just lost my day job for the third time. Budget cuts and the economy is killing me, almost literally. Think you’ve got it bad? (I’m sure you do. I realize I’m not alone here. I’m just trying to make others realize that neither are they.) My trash can got repossessed this past year. That’s right. My freaking trash can. Now that’s broke.
Of course, there’s much more than that going on. Lots of bad things, unfortunately. I’m considering selling the knives in my back for extra cash. LOL But, in all seriousness, my writing has suffered. I’ve finished editing one book, written another that needs another go over and am working on yet another.
I’m trying to find the motivation to write about love when all I feel is hate and pain. Passion is passion I keep telling myself. Turn it into what you need it to be. It’s not just that I’m broke … I’m broken. I have reached my limit. How do you write out of that? How do you take all of that pain and make it something more? I’ve done it before. So why is this time any different? I guess because I’m getting older and I’m sick to death of having to start over again. I’m sick of not being able to trust anyone of not being able to make any plans or count on anything at all.
I’m sick and I’m tired. Period. And even though I want to quit … quitting is not in me. It is not. As long as I can move I will not break completely. I have been broken before. I have the scars to prove it. Dare I ask: What next? I’m still standing. I’m still writing. If it takes a bottle of wine and lots of Barry White I will write that damn love scene. Somehow I will find a way to take this passion and make something good of it. Otherwise I will explode.
I’m writing this to let other people who are hurting know that you are not alone. I know I’m not the only one the economy has affected badly. All I’ve got to do is watch the news to understand that. Some people think that being a writer is glamorous. Well, it isn’t. I love it, but I still need another source of income to pay my bills. Not to mention advertising. People can’t buy what they don’t know about. Guess who hasn’t been able to afford an ad in almost a year? That would be me.
Trying to find the time to look for a job/keep one plus promote myself and look after a family is taking its toll. But as long as I have wax the candle will continue to burn on both ends. There is no other way.
I am a writer. I do it because I must. Storytelling is my first love. I will write until I collapse. I am a woman and I am strong. For those who have helped to knock me down, I will not stay this way.
If I ever cease to get up check my pulse.
I don’t share a lot of personal information because … well, I just don’t. Without getting into specific detail I will say that more plans have fallen through. Plans that I really needed to work, not just to further my career, but to survive. My family has suffered, my writing has suffered … I have suffered.
I have just lost my day job for the third time. Budget cuts and the economy is killing me, almost literally. Think you’ve got it bad? (I’m sure you do. I realize I’m not alone here. I’m just trying to make others realize that neither are they.) My trash can got repossessed this past year. That’s right. My freaking trash can. Now that’s broke.
Of course, there’s much more than that going on. Lots of bad things, unfortunately. I’m considering selling the knives in my back for extra cash. LOL But, in all seriousness, my writing has suffered. I’ve finished editing one book, written another that needs another go over and am working on yet another.
I’m trying to find the motivation to write about love when all I feel is hate and pain. Passion is passion I keep telling myself. Turn it into what you need it to be. It’s not just that I’m broke … I’m broken. I have reached my limit. How do you write out of that? How do you take all of that pain and make it something more? I’ve done it before. So why is this time any different? I guess because I’m getting older and I’m sick to death of having to start over again. I’m sick of not being able to trust anyone of not being able to make any plans or count on anything at all.
I’m sick and I’m tired. Period. And even though I want to quit … quitting is not in me. It is not. As long as I can move I will not break completely. I have been broken before. I have the scars to prove it. Dare I ask: What next? I’m still standing. I’m still writing. If it takes a bottle of wine and lots of Barry White I will write that damn love scene. Somehow I will find a way to take this passion and make something good of it. Otherwise I will explode.
I’m writing this to let other people who are hurting know that you are not alone. I know I’m not the only one the economy has affected badly. All I’ve got to do is watch the news to understand that. Some people think that being a writer is glamorous. Well, it isn’t. I love it, but I still need another source of income to pay my bills. Not to mention advertising. People can’t buy what they don’t know about. Guess who hasn’t been able to afford an ad in almost a year? That would be me.
Trying to find the time to look for a job/keep one plus promote myself and look after a family is taking its toll. But as long as I have wax the candle will continue to burn on both ends. There is no other way.
I am a writer. I do it because I must. Storytelling is my first love. I will write until I collapse. I am a woman and I am strong. For those who have helped to knock me down, I will not stay this way.
If I ever cease to get up check my pulse.
Monday, March 15, 2010
Wicked City has received an award!
I just found out that Wicked City has received the CTRR Award. (Coffee Time Reviewers Recommend)
http://coffeetimeromance.com/CoffeeThoughts/wicked-city-by-tracey-h-kitts
I am thrilled and honored to know that my words were enjoyed so much.
http://coffeetimeromance.com/CoffeeThoughts/wicked-city-by-tracey-h-kitts
I am thrilled and honored to know that my words were enjoyed so much.
Sunday, February 7, 2010
The Night Shift
That's the name of my work in progress. This is the book I had to put down in order to finish my latest that wouldn't stop waking me up at night. But, I like to finish what I start. Especially when it involves hot naked Djinn and sexy mercenaries. LOL
Here's a clip of the prologue. BTW, it's a futuristic/paranormal. I like to mix genres because that's what I like to read. I read recently (in a review of another of my books) that someone didn't know which category to put it in. Why do you have to? (I realize that if you work in a bookstore or a library you have to have a category. This is something different. I'm not retarded. lol) They said they enjoyed the book. Just enjoy it. It's a romance ... what more do you need to know?
I throw in a little bit of everything because I like a little bit of everything. If I didn't enjoy it, I wouldn't spend so much time working on it. Of course, this reviewer was the only person to ever say that ... just irked me a little. If you like something why do you have to put it in a box? What if it doesn't fit into the box? LOL Okay, now I'm just sounding like a pervert.
Once again ... here's the clip. Enjoy:)
Cigar smoke curled around his mouth as he looked down the bar at me and smiled. Everything is a game to Morgan and normally I would not have played. Maybe it was because we had just helped to liberate an entire race of people. Or maybe I was just still excited from the recent battle. Whatever the reason, I returned his wicked smile. He tipped his glass in response.
Even though it hasn’t been necessary for my heart to beat in a very long time, the look he gave me made it jump into overdrive. I rose slowly from my seat, taking the glass of warm blood with me. My vinyl bodysuit creaked as I moved toward him.
“Thank you, Jester,” one Ti’al woman said as she passed. Her hand trailed playfully across the back of his shoulders. I didn’t like it. She glanced at me and her dark blue lips curled into a challenging smile. Bitch.
Even alien women liked him. Sure, Morgan was attractive enough. But I never understood why someone would be willing to put up with his attitude. Having lived and worked along side him for the past ten years, I felt I knew better than anyone what a jerk he was. Even though I knew this, I took a seat beside him.
He wore a black mask which covered just his eyes. It matched the leather body armor that covered him from head to toe. His dark hair was slightly disheveled, adding to his rakish appeal. As I observed him I took another sip of the warm Ti’al blood and let it soothe me.
“Another round, Jester?”
Jester, that’s his mercenary name. His real name is Morgan Jefferies. But only myself and a handful of other people know that. Morgan’s bizarre sense of humor earned him the moniker long before we ever teamed up.
“I’m fine.”
The big blue bartender turned in my direction. When he nodded his head his short horns glinted in the light.
“How about you, Crimson?”
“I’m fine too.”
I’m known as The Crimson Kiss and I am part of an endangered species, vampires. My real name is Vivian Hart. But like my comrades, I chose to conceal my true identity, just in case I wanted to ever live a normal life someday. I mean, no one can be an intergalactic mercenary forever.
Here's a clip of the prologue. BTW, it's a futuristic/paranormal. I like to mix genres because that's what I like to read. I read recently (in a review of another of my books) that someone didn't know which category to put it in. Why do you have to? (I realize that if you work in a bookstore or a library you have to have a category. This is something different. I'm not retarded. lol) They said they enjoyed the book. Just enjoy it. It's a romance ... what more do you need to know?
I throw in a little bit of everything because I like a little bit of everything. If I didn't enjoy it, I wouldn't spend so much time working on it. Of course, this reviewer was the only person to ever say that ... just irked me a little. If you like something why do you have to put it in a box? What if it doesn't fit into the box? LOL Okay, now I'm just sounding like a pervert.
Once again ... here's the clip. Enjoy:)
Cigar smoke curled around his mouth as he looked down the bar at me and smiled. Everything is a game to Morgan and normally I would not have played. Maybe it was because we had just helped to liberate an entire race of people. Or maybe I was just still excited from the recent battle. Whatever the reason, I returned his wicked smile. He tipped his glass in response.
Even though it hasn’t been necessary for my heart to beat in a very long time, the look he gave me made it jump into overdrive. I rose slowly from my seat, taking the glass of warm blood with me. My vinyl bodysuit creaked as I moved toward him.
“Thank you, Jester,” one Ti’al woman said as she passed. Her hand trailed playfully across the back of his shoulders. I didn’t like it. She glanced at me and her dark blue lips curled into a challenging smile. Bitch.
Even alien women liked him. Sure, Morgan was attractive enough. But I never understood why someone would be willing to put up with his attitude. Having lived and worked along side him for the past ten years, I felt I knew better than anyone what a jerk he was. Even though I knew this, I took a seat beside him.
He wore a black mask which covered just his eyes. It matched the leather body armor that covered him from head to toe. His dark hair was slightly disheveled, adding to his rakish appeal. As I observed him I took another sip of the warm Ti’al blood and let it soothe me.
“Another round, Jester?”
Jester, that’s his mercenary name. His real name is Morgan Jefferies. But only myself and a handful of other people know that. Morgan’s bizarre sense of humor earned him the moniker long before we ever teamed up.
“I’m fine.”
The big blue bartender turned in my direction. When he nodded his head his short horns glinted in the light.
“How about you, Crimson?”
“I’m fine too.”
I’m known as The Crimson Kiss and I am part of an endangered species, vampires. My real name is Vivian Hart. But like my comrades, I chose to conceal my true identity, just in case I wanted to ever live a normal life someday. I mean, no one can be an intergalactic mercenary forever.
Sunday, January 31, 2010
Wicked City's first review!
Wow! Wicked City just got a 5 cup review from Coffee Time Romance. I am so excited! Check it out.
http://www.coffeetimeromance.com/BookReviews/wickedcity.html
http://www.coffeetimeromance.com/BookReviews/wickedcity.html
Tuesday, January 5, 2010
Technical Difficulties
I just wanted to let everyone know that my website has been down for about a month now. You can still visit www.traceyhkitts.com. It's still there, just without updates. I've been in touch with GoDaddy and they are helping me with the problem. I think it looks so bad for an author to have an out of date website and wanted you to know that I'm working on it.
Hate computers! Hate FrontPage! Hate everything technical that does not involve me getting coffee first!
LOL
Say a prayer for me, would you?
Hate computers! Hate FrontPage! Hate everything technical that does not involve me getting coffee first!
LOL
Say a prayer for me, would you?
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