Guest: Eliza Knight + Wicked Woman Book Giveaway

Eliza Knight is the multi-published author of sizzling historical romance and erotic romance. She is also the other half of writing duo, Annabelle Weston. While not reading, writing or researching for her latest book, she chases after her three children. In her spare time (if there is such a thing…) she likes daydreaming, wine-tasting, traveling, hiking, staring at the stars, watching movies, shopping and visiting with family and friends. She lives atop a small mountain, and enjoys cold winter nights when she can curl up in front of a roaring fire with her own knight in shining armor. Visit Eliza at www.elizaknight.com or her historical blog, History Undressed, which was recently mentioned in a feature article in The Wall Street Journal. www.historyundressed.blogspot.com



Q: Welcome Eliza! Please tell us about your latest release. 
A: My writing partner, Sarah and I are totally psyched about our new release under the name Annabelle Weston.  WICKED WOMAN, is a historical erotic western romance, complete with corsets, guns, horses, cowboy hats, adventure, sizzling love scenes, and all the conflict that goes along with it! 
Here's the blurb:
There are some things a man can't walk away from. Nathan Bender is on a quest for vengeance. What he finds is sexy saloon-dolly O'Dell Murphy. She holds the information he needs--and becomes a temptation he can't resist.
O'Dell longs for a respectable life outside the saloon. When the man Nathan is searching for steals O'Dell's savings, she has no choice but to go after him.
Torn between passion and revenge, Nathan reluctantly accompanies O'Dell through the Sonoran Desert. There are some things a man can't walk away from--and Nathan is finding it's not revenge that binds him. It's O'Dell, and the wicked, sinful pleasure she provides.
Reader Advisory: This book contains violence and a brief depiction of rape.
This book just came out on October 19^th, so as of me answering these questions we haven't gotten a review… So, readers! Please post your reviews :)


Q: Sounds exciting and creative! What inspired this story?
A: Sarah and I wanted to write a story about your not so typical heroine. We wanted it to be edgy, risky--which presented us with a challenge. You see our heroine is a Wild West prostitute--a saloon dolly. But the thing is, she wants to be treated like a respectable lady. She wants to settle down. She's a tough broad, but sweet on the inside. To make things more challenging for our lovely O'Dell, she's been robbed blind by a man she trusts, and now she's run into our hero who wants to avenge his brother's murder--they just so happen to be in search of the same man. And oh the sparks fly!  Throw these two in a room… or on a couple of horses in the wide open desert.


Q: Why do you write romance?
A: We write romance because we love to see a story unfold. To watch the progression of two characters who appear to have no ability to get together, fall in love. They go from not be able to stand each other, to not being able to live without one another. I love the fantasy of it. The escapism. And as I've often said, I love, love.


Q: I love love too. :) What do you enjoy most about writing historical romance?
A: I enjoy building a world and creating characters where anything is possible. I love taking readers on a journey, letting them experience the story as if they were there.



Q: Did you choose the title of your book and if so how did you do it?
A: We did choose this title. We wanted this book and the rest of the books in the series, to have the word WOMAN in it, because while they are romances, they are centered around a woman and her struggles.  In WICKED WOMAN's case, she is a prostitute, and a tough chick. She has a wicked streak in her, and knows just how to please a man to get what she wants--pretty simple really.


Q: Where is your favorite place in the world?
A: Well, I have to say my favorite place in the whole world is my house--because my family is there, and at heart I am a total homebody. BUT if you're asking where my favorite place that I've traveled has been I'd have to pick two - the countryside of Ireland and Chateau Versailles in France.


Q: Please tell us about your favorite character in the book.
A: My favorite character is O'Dell. She is woman that comes from nothing, has worked her a** off to build a small fortune, and seek out her dreams. Even when her hopes appear to be dashed, she won't let the world slam her down. She is strong, she is confident, she knows what she wants and she's not afraid to get it. I think she gives hope to all women, that if you want something bad enough, and you work hard enough, you will eventually get there.


Q: Which element of this story was the hardest for you?
A: The hardest part of this story was getting Nathan and O'Dell to commit wholly to each other. They both have some pretty big demons they are dealing with, that won't allow them to be together, or with anyone. They desire one another for sure, but what makes a couple jump over that line from chemical attraction to saying forever? Especially when everything inside you, and the world around you is saying NO! We did it, and I think we did it very well. But it was tough! O'Dell and Nathan deserved their happy ending, and we were so very pleased to give it to them!


Q: What inspires you? What motivates you?
A: I am inspired by everything--real life, documentaries, movies, books, drama, nature--literally everything. But a half naked man with a cowboy hat is pretty inspiring too J


Q: Do you have any advice for unpublished authors?
A: Don't stop. Keep writing. Don't stop. And of course, have patience. This business is mostly, hurry up and wait. Don't take rejections personally--we've all got a truckload of them. It's part of the process.

Q: What's next for you?
A: We have a contemporary intrigue, Mr. Temptation, coming out in a few months with Ellora's Cave (no release date quite yet), AND we are working on two more books in the western Wicked series - so look out for Carly's story--who is mentioned in the 1^st book--and Kate's story, who will make an appearance in the second book!


Q: Wow you've been busy! Congratulations on the upcoming release! Would you like to ask readers a question?
A: Yes!  What do you like about historical westerns?


Great question! Thanks so much for being our guest today!

Don't forget, Eliza is giving away a hot copy of Wicked Woman to one commenter!
Read an Excerpt of Wicked Woman, or buy the book at Ellora's Cave, Amazon, or All Romance eBooks.


Please visit Eliza's websites:

www.elizaknight.com
www.historyundressed.blogspot.com
http://annabellewestonromance.blogspot.com/

5 Gold Crowns for My Fierce Highlander

I was thrilled with this review from The Readers Roundtable for My Fierce Highlander!

Who doesn’t love a saucy highlander romance? It doesn’t get better than My Fierce Highlander when you’re looking for a handsome highland warrior with sex appeal out the ying-yang!

When a battle breaks out on her cousin’s land, Gwyneth saves Alasdair, a laird from a rival clan. She hides him and heals him in secret, knowing he’s come with a peace treaty. When Alasdair wakes up, he’s surprised Gwyneth is taking care of him and doesn’t quite trust her. He must go back to his clan, but knows he’ll always protect Gwyneth for saving his life.

This story is well written, reads easily and quickly and there isn’t a moment you won’t be deep into the storyline, totally involved with the characters. Before the sex, Gwyneth and Alasdair are already emotionally involved, which doesn’t always happen these days and it’s so nice to read that today. The sex is sensual and romantic with highly emotional, tender moments. It’s heartfelt and will give you the warm-and-fuzzies on many occasions.

Alasdair is a handsome, highland warrior who knows how to take care of his woman and I wholeheartedly recommend it to those of you who love a good highland romance! It’s absolutely yummy!

Rated 5 Gold Crowns and a Recommended Read by Beth!

What's all the Fuss About

Waking up as a child on Christmas morning. Balancing on my bike without the training wheels. Earning a college degree. Seeing Paul McCartney and Ringo Starr in concert. Having my first book published. All of these events were exciting and resulted in cherished memories. How my mood soared and nothing could spoil the moments following. Synapses firing. Fingers tingling from adrenaline surges. Many sleepless nights, skinned knees, study sessions, and hours at the computer delivered the stuff of which dreams are made.

Some of my favorites are captured in these video bits. Twist, shout and celebrate your passions in life! Cheers!

The Beatles Arriving in America for the First Time --



Super Bowl Champion Colts --



Moon Landing in 1969 --



Wishing you all many happy reading moments,

Shawna Moore
TO HELLE AND BACK AGAIN -- Ellora's Cave
TORMENTED (Recommended Read) -- Ellora's Cave
ROUGHRIDER -- Ellora's Cave
HELLE IN HEELS -- Ellora's Cave
Shawna's Myspace
Helle's Myspace

Heaven Help the Heroine?

The heroines in novels face many horrors along their paths to finding true love and self-actualization. Cheating lovers. Loss of careers. Meddlesome casts of characters. And some of the most memorable ladies on film were tormented by mummies, werewolves and countless creatures who went bump in the night. In my erotic historical romance, TORMENTED, Eve Morneau is thrust into a world rife with mystery and secrets. Her torment is within and without. Eve’s soul and body are stirred by a physician who carries secrets of his own, one of which is that he is a vampire.

In this scene, Eve suspects the man who has promised to heal her wound may embrace the erotic as well as the unconventional.

Charles Galletiére touched his patients to make them better. And she’d certainly forgotten her trials and pain while Charles and she lay on the sofa earlier.
Her thoughts tumbled more, her legs straightened and she glanced in direction of the low growl. Though scarce time had passed since he’d entered, he now stood before the window.

“Again, I’m sorry our time together was interrupted. Lottie Banks dare not show her face around here again. She means nothing to me. Never did.”

His Southern drawl was so sweet. Like Grandmother Ellie’s strawberry jam on toasted bread. But his jaw remained set.

She looked him square in the face. His scowl softened and he approached the tub. Lithe as a jungle tiger he moved, his feet practically skimming the rugs and floorboards.

And the way he watched her. Sticking her hand into a pile of flaming logs wouldn’t burn as much as his gaze when it played over her body.

“Does the bath please you, Eve?” He knelt beside the tub and swirled his hand through the water.

She shifted and the soap skidded past her foot. No matter how hard she tried she couldn’t look away. His scent was unlike any other man’s she’d ever met.

“It does, thank you.” Silly chit. Say something more or he’ll know you’re mesmerized.
The amber flecks in his eyes built to a bonfire. Soon he’d touch her. Where? Only near the wound? For how long?

Charles’ right hand plucked the cloth from her breasts. While staring her down, he reached under the water and between her legs. In another heartbeat his hand emerged, bearing the scented bar of tallow.

But how did he manage this feat without touching her?

Especially while watching her face and not what he was doing?

She closed her eyes for a moment before re-opening them.

“You’re still so tired, Eve. But I’m glad you’ve rested some.” His words quieted the clattering in her head. “You’ve had a difficult journey here. Surrender your care to me, dear one. Let me alleviate your suffering tonight.”

His eyes took on a more golden cast.

A strange calmness settled over her. Cloaking her body. So very nice. “Mmmm.” Unseen fingers pressed upon her eyelids and drew them down.

The washcloth skimmed over her upper back. Where wetness lingered, his hot breath hit. Jasmine essence filled the air. Glorious flowers. More pungent with each passing minute.
She jerked upright. Her breasts bobbed above the water. Something soft pressed against the back of her head. His lips kissing her? Charles’ hand glided the cloth over and around her right breast and repeated the cleansing on the left. Each pass of the soapy muslin cloth brought a tingling in her nipples that tracked to her belly and continued to her toes.

But he took no liberties.

Despite the low fire in the hearth, sweat beaded her brow and neckline.

Flames licked between her legs and she pulled them closed. Finished soaping and rinsing her breasts, Charles moved around to the opposite side of the tub. His hand split the surface and headed straight for her belly. Several droplets splashed onto her mouth and she licked them away. As the cloth met with her calf she grabbed the sides of the tub, straightened and opened her legs again.

His touch traveled along the fleshiest part of her thigh and came to rest just below her knee. “Has the water soothed the ache any?”

Her thoughts tangled much the same as a ball of yarn when in the paws of her pet kitten. Which ached more—her whole body for his touch or her leg from the beetle’s bite?

Words refused to come but this time her tongue remained unfettered and stirred some saliva.

She swallowed several times. “A bit but the pain is quite intense at times. And the fluid that seeps out has the most unbearable odor. You can see the seepage for yourself once my leg is out of the water.”

He abandoned the washcloth and his fingers closed around her ankle. Carefully he pulled the afflicted leg out of the water.

After propping her limb against the side of the tub he moved forward and lowered his face to the dripping appendage.

He touched the swelling with the tip of his tongue, pressed his teeth to the wounded flesh and reared back. “The foul work of an Artemis beetle. Most unfortunate.” His breath came hot against her wet skin.

Charles had bitten her. Either that or her mind was playing tricks.

But if he had bitten her, how would that heal her wound? “You can help me?”

He searched her face for a moment before his steely gaze settled on her heaving breasts. “I can rid you of the scourge this bug has cast upon your body.”

His lips puffed warm air over her wound. The soft hiss of breath from his nostrils and mouth dried her damp skin. An invisible but fiery knife tip prodded her belly.

Charles’ mouth played against the putrid wound. Slowly his jaw opened and his teeth again met her calf.

His nostrils flared, almost as a wild beast’s at the scent of its prey. The aroma of crushed spices came in with her next breath. His tongue lashed the sore spot and a dark veil drew over her eyes.


Wishing you many happy reading moments,

Shawna Moore
TO HELE AND BACK AGAIN – Ellora’s Cave
TORMENTED (Recommended Read) – Ellora’s Cave
ROUGHRIDER – Ellora’s Cave
HELLE IN HEELS – Ellora’s Cave
Shawna’s Myspace
Helle’s Myspace

Dancing and Dating

One, two cha-cha-cha. One partner going forward, the other going back. A flirty dance filled with desire. The push-pull of steps, emotions and magical exchanges of a couple sharing common interests and exploring their attraction. Capable of creating a chemical reaction far more powerful than any conjured in a laboratory. They’re eager to learn more about each other but worried about making missteps and mistakes. After all, broken hearts definitely hurt more and take longer to heal than toes that have been trod upon. In the beginning, the signals are sometimes coming fast and furious and are confusing to the point where neither knows whether the connection has the potential of lasting or will end up fleeting.

Unlike the romantic heroes we enjoy writing and reading about, great guys are often hesitant in making that first step in the dating dance. Yet I’ve heard from many that they prefer remaining the “hunter”. These guys like maintaining some distance while surveying the situation. Facing the “music” of a potential love match is daunting for them even though we’re ten years into the New Millennium.

As an author, I adore writing Cinderella stories. From a creative standpoint, I’ll compare her bare foot to a single woman’s bare left ring finger. Her love bond begins with a slipper while a modern woman’s begins with an engagement ring. But although Cinderella and her Prince Charming may have waltzed their way into each other’s lives and hearts, in today’s society life happens at warp speed and sometimes slams couples together much as the people in a mosh pit. Love, or what is professed as love, is here today and gone tomorrow. Instead of the controlled, graceful tempo embraced by the storybook couple, dating today creates whirling dervishes who lose control of their love connection—or who never have a chance at making a connection due to erratic pacing.

Before writing this blog, I pondered some of the many dances in which couples engage from their first meeting to the moment of a marriage proposal. The melody and words of “At Last” played in my mind. What a delicious slow burn on the dance floor that song intimately ignites. I’m a woman who enjoys a varied pace throughout the relationship, but I prefer a slower dance at first. A dance where every breath, every movement, every word is felt and heard and savored. Save the fastest dances for those dervishes as I believe love belongs in a ballroom as opposed to on a break-dancing mat. I’ve always said I’m a romantic at heart but a realist in practice. True love definitely happens but it is hard won, especially if you’re tapping so fast your feet become numb. Ever try putting a shoe on a foot that has “fallen asleep”? Slow and steady, with moments of spontaneity, are what make a better love connection, in my opinion.



In my historical erotic romance novel, TORMENTED, Eve and Charles engage in many dances together in their quest for healing—both emotional and physical—and love.

A Boston socialite’s hope is blind but given sight when a handsome practitioner accepts her challenging medical case.

While shipboard in 1888, Eve Morneau is the victim of a venomous beetle’s bite. Her healing and sexual awakening are placed in the hands of a New Orleans physician, Charles Galletiére. Charles not only shuns society but also the treatment regimens practiced by his peers. Eve is pitted against more than one foe as she struggles with her attraction to Charles and wonders whether or not her cure and a romantic commitment from him are possible.

What about you, readers? Do you enjoy and prefer sexual tension and romantic build-up in the fiction you read and the relationship you cherish? Or is a whirlwind romance more of what you find exciting?

Wishing you all many happy reading moments,

Shawna Moore
TO HELLE AND BACK AGAIN -- Ellora's Cave
TORMENTED (Recommended Read) -- Ellora's Cave
ROUGHRIDER -- Ellora's Cave
HELLE IN HEELS -- Ellora's Cave
Shawna's Myspace
Helle's Myspace

Spring--So Much More Than a Season

Spring this year, for me, is so much more than a season. It’s brought many days of boundless creativity when it comes to my fiction writing. Walks I used to take for exercise purposes have turned into journeys where fantasies take flight in my mind and later find themselves transferred to the computer screen. Trees and plants are blooming, and the air holds a crisp freshness that tickles the nose and always brings a smile.

As I admire the scenery during my outdoor times, it’s then I realize how much I’m blessed to be living and loving the many reminders of spring’s bounty. Some of the ways Nature has inspired me are found in the following videos.

Talk about sexual tension…this peahen plays it coy and seems to prefer feeding her hunger and fueling a potential mate’s ardor.




Spring glory – beautiful blooms whose colorful petals and delightful fragrance have made their way into some of my poetry.





Ladybug lovers seem to know they’ve picked a precarious place for their passionate romp. The hero and heroine in my latest erotic historical romance work-in-progress are much the same as the ladybug couple and refuse to let anything dampen their ardor.




One of my favorite parts of writing fiction is conveying to readers the incomparably fabulous feeling of falling in love.




Wishing you all many happy reading moments,

Shawna Moore
TO HELLE AND BACK AGAIN -- Ellora's Cave
TORMENTED (Recommended Read) -- Ellora's Cave
ROUGHRIDER -- Ellora's Cave
HELLE IN HEELS -- Ellora's Cave
Shawna's Myspace
Helle's Myspace

Love Makes the World Go Around and More

Never have hearts and the air been filled with more love than when in anticipation of Valentine’s Day. Love for a significant other or spouse. Love for friends and family. Love of life. These are some of the many things we cherish and which make our hearts beat faster. Earlier this morning, I mulled some of the songs and quotes I find most magical during this time when love is capable of melting the deepest snow and warming the body from head to heels.

Love Theme From Romeo and Juliet – Henry Mancini



Dedicated to the One I Love – Mamas and the Papas


Dedicated To the One I Love


World Without Love – Peter and Gordon




All You Need is Love – Beatles

"A kiss is a lovely trick designed by nature to stop speech when words become superfluous."
-Ingrid Bergman


"There is no remedy for love but to love more."
-Thoreau

"Some love lasts a lifetime. True love lasts forever."
-Unknown

"If I could reach up and hold a star for every time you've made me smile, the entire evening sky would be in the palm of my hand."
-Unknown


But let there be spaces in your togetherness and let the winds of the heavens dance between you. Love one another but make not a bond of love: let it rather be a moving sea between the shores of your souls.
-Kahlil Gibran

Wishing you all love and many happy reading moments,

Shawna Moore
TO HELLE AND BACK AGAIN -- Ellora's Cave
TORMENTED (Recommended Read) -- Ellora's Cave
ROUGHRIDER -- Ellora's Cave
HELLE IN HEELS -- Ellora's Cave
Shawna's Myspace
Helle's Myspace

Tension--Setting the Scene and Tone

Romance fiction stories run the gamut when it comes to the hows, whens, wheres, whys and what-ifs of plot, character, setting, etc. Whether sweet or steamy, the hero and heroine seek fulfillment of their goals, resolution of their conflicts and the achievement of a loving bond that only comes as a result of commitment from both.

Some readers prefer having the bedroom door closed while others enjoy a peek inside at the passion. One of my favorite elements to write in romance is tension. Not simply the drama that comes as a result of escalating internal and external problems and troublesome secondary characters, but rather the tension that arises when a man and woman are first attracted and getting to know each other. Many times they do not approach sexuality and intimacy on the same level. One is likely more experienced and outgoing than the other. What happens when desire threatens to tip an otherwise balanced scale between them? Compromise and patience are paramount.

Of the novels I’ve written and published, TORMENTED is my favorite. Eve has arrived at Charles’ mansion for what she believes is only a healing of her wound. The journey on which she embarks involves her body, mind and soul. In the following scene, the couple feeds more than each other’s imagination.



“You are tired. Save your strength. I will feed you.” Rich as the rum custard soaking the golden-brown bread, his words could calm any savage.

Yet they only goaded her heart to a wilder gallop.

He remained unblinking, snatched her spoon and scooped a small portion of pudding. Moving the spoon to the opposite side of the bowl, he dredged the morsel in the melting cream before raising his hand.

She shut her eyes. Her heart thumped harder, making a racket Charles certainly heard. His deeper, bolder breaths overpowered her shallow ones.

He moved so fast. Faster than any man she’d ever met. Fast as a wild animal fleeing its foe.

And his gaze struck bone.

Something about Charles bore closer consideration and a measured approach.

“I don’t want to feed your fear, only your appetite,” he said and tapped the spoon against her lips.

Not polite, refusing his hospitality. She opened her mouth. As the spoon advanced and caressed her tongue, what must have been his pinkie played twice over her lower lip. She pulled the dessert from the spoon and his hand retreated. But not before the faintest of moans rattled in his throat. The fire in her belly flared to between her legs. How sweet, his treat, as the creamy sauce and softened bread covered her palate.

As her lips closed, an image of him played against the blackness of her eyelids. The flavors settled and filled her entire mouth. She chewed and swallowed. Though she could feed herself without dropping any food, Charles’ steady hand was welcome.

Her fingers remained folded together. At least that way they didn’t fumble and fuel the tingling that cascaded from the bottom knuckles to the very tips.

“More, Eve?”

Maybe he’d feed her hunger for knowledge? “How long have you lived here in New Orleans and cared for its people?”

The soft scraping of Charles tracing the spoon around the pudding bowl’s rim. “Many years.”

Her damp fingers pleated the napkin on her lap and she glanced at him. “When younger did you suspect you’d enter a healing profession?”

The twinkling of countless stars settled in his eyes. “From the time I removed the first burr from my pet spaniel’s paw. Seven years old and somewhat of a surgeon.”

A gentle shake settled the napkin over her legs. “My father frowned on having animals in our home but he gifted me with a trotter on my tenth birthday. I enjoy riding horses.”

“As do I. Zephyr is the name of my spirited mount. He delights in nipping and throwing my stable boys. And then there’s Janus, my carriage horse.” Charles laughed, eyes closed and head tipped back at a jaunty angle.

“Your brothers and sisters must have held you in awe.”

A tic pulsed in his right cheek. “Only a sister, Cecile. She was born two years before me. On the day after Christmas. Mama and Papa called her their miracle child. Her love of music matched mine. Have you any brothers or sisters, Eve?”

Visions of the family library flitted past her mind’s eye. “None. Books proved my constant companions. I enjoy sharing many of the things I’ve learned with my pupils in Boston.”

His gaze narrowed and his free hand lay on top of hers. “Do you miss Boston when on such voyages as the one to the Transvaal?”

“My father and Edward often journey alone.” No amount of squirming unseated his hot touch. “Actually, I won’t be accompanying them anymore. This past trip proved tedious and I’m far happier remaining behind in Boston.”

He removed his hand and played the spoon over her mouth again. “More?”

Quite a persistent man, her potential healer. She jerked forward and settled. How could she refuse his offer the way her mouth watered for more?

His feeding her wasn’t doing any harm.

At her nod he slipped another spoonful between her lips. Some of the custard dripped down her chin. His warm finger swiped it away. Charles’ soft sucking filled her ears before the silence between them resumed.

He’d licked his finger clean. The fire spread higher and claimed her breasts.

Her next swallow freed a giggle.

Charles patted her hands. “Still more?”

“Yes.” What was she saying? Countless church bells pealed in her brain.


She pushed the chair away from the table. Charles’ laughter held her in place.

A buzzing filled her brain. Back and forth. Good pummeled Evil. Evil returned with a jab to Good’s jaw.

And she hadn’t done anything except sit here and let him feed her bread pudding.

He stroked her cheek with the back of his hand. “I’m sorry if I’ve upset you.” With his free hand he dunked his spoon into the refreshment. Softened from its soaking with rum custard, the remaining piece of pudding split. Charles let go of the spoon and the handle clanked against the side of the bowl.

She claimed the fallen spoon and lifted the custard to her lips. “No need for an apology. Your willingness to help me means a lot.”

She drifted her gaze from the bowl to his face and back again.

Waste not, want not.

He patted the back of her upraised hand. “Don’t worry about wasting food. Your comfort is more important.”

Not only was he incredibly striking but also incredibly astute.

Somewhere someone hummed. Or could she simply be hearing things?

He pulled the bowl and spoon away and set them near his left hand. “You can enjoy some fresh, warmer pudding later. You’re tired.”

Without further ado Charles stood, helped her up and scooped her into his arms. Her breath huffed out and hit his cheek. There she dangled, becoming smitten with a man whose will couldn’t be broken. Silent and his breathing measured, he retraced their steps and headed straight for the staircase.

What are your thoughts on keeping the emotional stakes and tension high in a romance novel?

Wishing you all many happy reading moments,

Shawna Moore
TO HELLE AND BACK AGAIN -- Ellora's Cave
TORMENTED (Recommended Read)--Ellora's Cave
ROUGHRIDER -- Ellora's Cave
HELLE IN HEELS -- Ellora's Cave
Shawna's Myspace
Helle's Myspace

Fall and Falling in Love

Fall brings many changes and possibilities.

Falling leaves.

Falling temperatures.

Falling in love.


Have you ever been…TORMENTED?




A woman is thrust into and left unaccompanied in a world far different from that to which she's accustomed. A hero is dealt two tasks -- cure a malady that current medical science cannot and gain the trust of a woman who's been repeatedly wronged by the man in whom she once placed the utmost faith.


While shipboard in 1888, Eve Morneau is the victim of a venomous beetle’s bite. Her healing and sexual awakening are placed in the hands of a New Orleans physician, Charles Galletiére. Charles not only shuns society but also the treatment regimens practiced by his peers. Eve is pitted against more than one foe as she struggles with her attraction to Charles and wonders whether or not her cure and a romantic commitment from him are possible.


TORMENTED...the truth will be revealed


Hot…Hedonistic…Historical


Available now at Ellora's Cave


Excerpt from TORMENTED --



A froth of ruffles spilled down the doctor’s shirtfront. No doubt, from his change in demeanor, he found traipsing about the world in search of treasure a folly.

And who was she to disagree with such wisdom?

She’d come here to rid her body of its poison, not to discuss expeditions.

She swallowed past the grip in her throat and turned to Doctor Galletiére. “What is it you need to know?”

The doctor’s morose expression melted. Charles reached for her with his left hand, the palm facing upward and his arm bouncing as he weighed the thick air surrounding them. “When did you first notice the wound?”

A hundredweight held her tongue but a swallow loosened it. “Two days ago. A light red spot appeared on my lower leg. Since then the color has deepened and the area become quite tender.”

Charles’ hand lowered, gently brushing her hip. Despite the layers of material separating her flesh from his fingers an undeniable heat flared between them in that instant.

Heat, more intense than when she’d tipped her toe into the bathwater poured straight from their Boston servant Madeline’s kettle. She shifted position. The full skirt was all that separated her from his touch.

A skilled touch.

The touch of a man.

A man who provoked her body and mind more than any other she’d ever met.

Unseen fingers plucked below her belly while yet others pawed her will and poked her soul.

Unsettling to be in his presence. Certainly.

“Such a Christian woman, your daughter.” Ice crystals collected around Doctor Galletiére’s words.

Hard to tell how but he seemed to know more about her than most. And he spoke the truth. She had served as a Christian influence and teacher for those poor bedeviled souls on the continent. Endured many sleepless nights. Touched herself in places most would consider forbidden. Wondered what other women of her age had experienced with men. Men like robust Charles Galletiére.

Charles nudged her foot with his.

A flame leaped from her belly and licked at her throat. A diviner of thoughts, no doubt. There were some in the jungles who claimed the same gift.

Their ceremonies were more about sending up smoke to the heavens and incessant prodding into personal matters of those who sought them than the usurpation of actual thoughts.

She’d never tasted a man’s kiss—unless she counted the embarrassing buss from her first cousin Frederick one summer long ago.

Charles laid his hand on her knee, his fingertips warming the silk of her most becoming traveling dress. “I really should examine her leg. But it would not do to display her so boldly. You gentlemen are welcome to stay a short while and enjoy a cup of tea or other repast. However I must tend to Eve before the hours progress. I’ll have her things brought inside.”

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Click here for another excerpt

Click here for my favorite excerpt

Click here to watch the TORMENTED video


Wishing you all many happy reading moments,

Shawna Moore
TO HELLE AND BACK AGAIN -- Ellora's Cave
TORMENTED (Recommended Read) -- Ellora's Cave
ROUGHRIDER -- Ellora's Cave
HELLE IN HEELS -- Ellora's Cave
Shawna's Myspace
Helle's Myspace

Details, Details--It's all about the location

Although I love reading all subgenres of romance fiction, historicals are my favorite. Something about stepping back in time and vicariously living those time periods through a book’s characters is extremely fascinating and interesting for me. Of course, as an author living in the 21st century, I must rely upon research when crafting my romantic tales. The local library has long been one of my favorite places to visit – for reading and for research materials. But even though there are many facts captured on those written pages, my senses simply aren’t stimulated as would happen if I’m conducting setting research in my favorite way.

I adore visiting the locations where my books are set. Nothing compares to this approach when an author wants to capture intimate and intricate details, especially those involving architecture. During vacations in Salem, Massachusetts, I toured historic properties, became enchanted by the beauty surrounding Pickering Wharf, chatted with some local historians, spent hours at the Peabody-Essex Museum, relished several historical tours and after-dark ghost walks, strolled down Chestnut Street and admired the gorgeous Federal style homes. While the library could have provided me much information, the details I gained while “on location” were far more valuable and memorable.





Two erotic-romance novel ideas were also born during these getaways. One of those sunny spring afternoons found me browsing pendulums and crystals in a Salem shop. As I admired one of the beautiful sunstone pendulums, the name, face and voice of a romance heroine sprang to mind. In a few moments, I had a handle not only on the plot but also on some of her back story, motivations, goals and potential conflicts. I left the display counter, headed back out into the sunlight and jotted the details in a small notebook. On another Salem trip a few years later, I stood among those assembled for a presentation on The Salem Witch Trials. While mesmerized by the glowing red panel upon which the names of the accused were displayed, the handsome visage of a hero from 1700 filled my mind’s eye. Suffice it to say, I focused on him and missed the remainder of the historical presentation. On returning to the bed and breakfast, I spent a couple hours jotting notes and plotting the first half of another historical romance.



My most recent vacation to New Orleans and the breathtaking Garden District made my erotic historical romance,TORMENTED, possible. Lush pink azaleas. Well-tended lawns. Wrought iron fences wearing spikes which were sometimes tipped with poison as deterrents to those who dared trespass on mansion properties in days past. St. Louis Cemetery #1. Lime-washed tombstones. Basin Street. The French Quarter. A mysterious and mighty Mississippi. A riverboat awaiting the boarding of passengers for another scenic cruise. Marie Laveau’s legend. All these sightings found me pondering river travel and how it could have played a role in the rescuing of a heroine trapped and tormented by her loveless and lonely life.









During your travels, have you ever found yourself transported to another era and musing about in whose footsteps you could be walking?

Wishing you all many happy reading moments,

Shawna Moore
TO HELLE AND BACK AGAIN -- Available now at Ellora's Cave
TORMENTED -- Ellora's Cave (Must-Read from Dark Angel Reviews)
ROUGHRIDER -- Ellora's Cave Exotika
HELLE IN HEELS -- Ellora's Cave Exotika
Shawna's Myspace
Helle's Myspace

Love in Song

This year, Valentine’s Day weekend proved a time for pondering. Never more than now have I been so thankful and counted my blessings. Many people have come into my life, gifted me with their love and friendship and imparted wisdom. Their smiles, kind words and our shared silly moments have filled my mind and heart to bursting point on numerous occasions.

Love means many things to me, most of them centered around sharing and caring. While lavish gifts are lovely, they cannot replace a breathtaking kiss, a heart-stopping hug, or a steadying hand during times of turmoil. They claim diamonds are forever, but the love of a special person is far more valuable to me.

My list of things I love is quite lengthy, but one thing is certain--Music has always brought me immense happiness. Whether during those moments when I was learning how to play a guitar. Or when I played certain 45s in heavy rotation on my first turntable many Christmases ago. On the most awful day, when all around seems bent on causing frustration, harsh reality is pushed away once I start playing the stereo.

As many of my favorite musical performers were part of The British Invasion, I thought it would be fun sharing some of these performers’ love songs with you all today. May these tunes bring smiles and find you singing along with them.



Love Me Do -- Beatles




All You Need is Love -- Beatles








World Without Love -- Peter and Gordon





To Sir With Love -- Lulu




My Love – Petula Clark





If I Loved You – Chad and Jeremy





Wishing you all many happy and loving moments,

Shawna Moore
TORMENTED -- Ellora's Cave (MUST-READ from Dark Angel Reviews)
ROUGHRIDER -- Ellora's Cave Exotika
HELLE IN HEELS -- Ellora's Cave Exotika
TO HELLE AND BACK AGAIN -- Coming to EC Exotika in 2009
Shawna's Myspace
Helle's Myspace

Valentine's Wishes and Remembrances

There’s nothing like a snowy winter’s day to make a woman even more sentimental. What better time than February to find a folder of old Valentine’s cards and romantic mementos? I tugged open the ends of the scarlet ribbon and spilled the contents. Crooked red hearts shot through with squiggly arrows peeked up at me from one page—a page of white tablet paper my grade-school crush had covered with images and words revealing that he wanted to be my Valentine. The silver plastic Indian-head ring he had slipped on my index finger during one recess lay underneath other Valentine’s cards and letters from years past. I found a cute parking ticket one boyfriend had tucked underneath my wiper blade that told me how many kisses he wanted in payment. Payment for what, you might ask? Payment for speeding into his heart. Pink construction-paper hearts streamed across a golden-thread-wrapped cord. Those were the hearts I’d hung from my rear-view mirror after the third date with a man I thought I’d marry some day. Didn’t happen, but we remained good friends for many years afterward. Nearby lay an empty miniature Whitman’s sampler inside of which I’d tucked the fortune from my cookie the night my at-the-time Valentine and I dined on cashew chicken and shrimp-fried-rice. The fortune read: “Someone special will come into your life when you least expect.”














Love and romantic commitment are often explored in the stories I’ve written and published. In real life, I’ve run the gamut from…

Puppy Love that made me tongue-tied, weak-kneed, and at a loss for the proper words…





To a more mature love built on faith, respect, sharing and caring…





Whether your Valentine’s Day begins with …


Love







Laughter





Chocolate





Or a Kiss





Whether you find a Frog Prince…




Or spend the day with your handsome hero…








Always remember true love isn’t simply for romance novels. A loving bond can and will withstand many trials and the test of time.

In my latest erotic historical romance novel, TORMENTED, Eve and Charles savor a delicious and amorous moment while he feeds far more than her appetite. The following scene is one of my favorites of those I’ve written. May you enjoy the following passage and many loving moments with those who are special in your life.

Excerpt – TORMENTED (MUST-READ from Dark Angel Reviews)

Click here for more information about TORMENTED

“You are tired. Save your strength. I will feed you.” Rich as the rum custard soaking the golden-brown bread, his words could calm any savage.

Yet they only goaded her heart to a wilder gallop.

He remained unblinking, snatched her spoon and scooped a small portion of pudding. Moving the spoon to the opposite side of the bowl, he dredged the morsel in the melting cream before raising his hand.

She shut her eyes. Her heart thumped harder, making a racket Charles certainly heard. His deeper, bolder breaths overpowered her shallow ones.

He moved so fast.

Faster than any man she’d ever met.

Fast as a wild animal fleeing its foe.

And his gaze struck bone.

Something about Charles bore closer consideration and a measured approach.

“I don’t want to feed your fear, only your appetite,” he said and tapped the spoon against her lips.

Not polite, refusing his hospitality. She opened her mouth. As the spoon advanced and caressed her tongue, what must have been his pinkie played twice over her lower lip.

She pulled the dessert from the spoon and his hand retreated. But not before the faintest of moans rattled in his throat. The fire in her belly flared to between her legs. How sweet, his treat, as the creamy sauce and softened bread covered her palate.

As her lips closed, an image of him played against the blackness of her eyelids. The flavors settled and filled her entire mouth. She chewed and swallowed. Though she could feed herself without dropping any food, Charles’ steady hand was welcome. Her fingers remained folded together. At least that way they didn’t fumble and fuel the tingling that cascaded from the bottom knuckles to the very tips.

“More, Eve?”

Maybe he’d feed her hunger for knowledge? “How long have you lived here in New Orleans and cared for its people?”

The soft scraping of Charles tracing the spoon around the pudding bowl’s rim. “Many years.”

Her damp fingers pleated the napkin on her lap and she glanced at him. “When younger did you suspect you’d enter a healing profession?”

The twinkling of countless stars settled in his eyes. “From the time I removed the first burr from my pet spaniel’s paw. Seven years old and somewhat of a surgeon.”

A gentle shake settled the napkin over her legs. “My father frowned on having animals in our home but he gifted me with a trotter on my tenth birthday. I enjoy riding horses.”

“As do I. Zephyr is the name of my spirited mount. He delights in nipping and throwing my stable boys. And then there’s Janus, my carriage horse.” Charles laughed, eyes closed and head tipped back at a jaunty angle.

“Your brothers and sisters must have held you in awe.”

A tic pulsed in his right cheek. “Only a sister, Cecile. She was born two years before me. On the day after Christmas. Mama and Papa called her their miracle child. Her love of music matched mine. Have you any brothers or sisters, Eve?”

Visions of the family library flitted past her mind’s eye. “None. Books proved my constant companions. I enjoy sharing many of the things I’ve learned with my pupils in Boston.”

His gaze narrowed and his free hand lay on top of hers. “Do you miss Boston when on such voyages as the one to the Transvaal?”

“My father and Edward often journey alone.” No amount of squirming unseated his hot touch. “Actually, I won’t be accompanying them anymore. This past trip proved tedious and I’m far happier remaining behind in Boston.”

He removed his hand and played the spoon over her mouth again. “More?”
Quite a persistent man, her potential healer. She jerked forward and settled. How could she refuse his offer the way her mouth watered for more?

His feeding her wasn’t doing any harm.

At her nod he slipped another spoonful between her lips. Some of the custard dripped down her chin. His warm finger swiped it away. Charles’ soft sucking filled her ears before the silence between them resumed.

He’d licked his finger clean. The fire spread higher and claimed her breasts.

Her next swallow freed a giggle.

Charles patted her hands. “Still more?”

“Yes.” What was she saying? Countless church bells pealed in her brain.

She pushed the chair away from the table. Charles’ laughter held her in place.

A buzzing filled her brain. Back and forth. Good pummeled Evil. Evil returned with a jab to Good’s jaw.

And she hadn’t done anything except sit here and let him feed her bread pudding.

He stroked her cheek with the back of his hand. “I’m sorry if I’ve upset you.” With his free hand he dunked his spoon into the refreshment. Softened from its soaking with rum custard, the remaining piece of pudding split. Charles let go of the spoon and the handle clanked against the side of the bowl.

She claimed the fallen spoon and lifted the custard to her lips. “No need for an apology. Your willingness to help me means a lot.”

She drifted her gaze from the bowl to his face and back again.

Waste not, want not.

He patted the back of her upraised hand. “Don’t worry about wasting food. Your comfort is more important.”

Not only was he incredibly striking but also incredibly astute.

Somewhere someone hummed. Or could she simply be hearing things?

He pulled the bowl and spoon away and set them near his left hand. “You can enjoy some fresh, warmer pudding later. You’re tired.”

Without further ado Charles stood, helped her up and scooped her into his arms. Her breath huffed out and hit his cheek. There she dangled, becoming smitten with a man whose will couldn’t be broken. Silent and his breathing measured, he retraced their steps and headed straight for the staircase.”

Wishing you all much love and happiness,

Shawna Moore
TORMENTED -- Ellora's Cave (MUST-READ from Dark Angel Reviews)
ROUGHRIDER -- Ellora's Cave Exotika
HELLE IN HEELS -- Ellora's Cave Exotika
TO HELLE AND BACK AGAIN -- Coming in 2009 to Ellora's Cave Exotika
Shawna's Myspace
Helle's Myspace

Getting Sensual About Love

The graphic heading of my blog post struck a chord deep within me as a writer and woman who embraces romantic love. When writing scenes between our heroes and heroines, especially after they’ve realized their attraction, I enjoy employing the five senses to add depth, heighten sexual tension and strengthen the “love” connection between them. While we who write fiction delight in letting our fantasies and imagination take flight, I’ve found that tapping into real-life romantic memories and events provides the ultimate in romantic richness. Remember your first kiss? Did his hot breath tickle your face as his lips sought yours? Were his fingers content combing through your wild-tangled hair as you paused during a walk along the beach. Waves breaking and bubbling over your toes. Sand shifting and holding you tight—but not nearly as tight as your special guy. Salt air tickling your nose. The pleasant piquancy of lingering spices from the candlelit Italian dinner as his mouth explores yours. Moans rattling in his throat as you playfully tackle him to the carpet. Rose petals clinging to your skin and his as you awaken on crisp white sheets in a getaway suite meant for lovers.

These are some of the images and moments that came to mind as I pondered the picture. Of course, the woman in the graphic is so deeply in love with her significant other that she wants a part of him to remain even when he is not at her side. A combining of the sensual sort, if you will, as she breathes him in.

Last week I invited you all to share your thoughts and pick a hero for the romance you are writing. The responses were great, and I’ll confess the man who wins the heart of my heroine is Hunk #2. His eyes told me so much about him. He’s a bit of a daredevil but one with a playful and caring nature. He’ll devour the plate of nachos she prepared for him while shouting his favorite football team to victory. Later, after their sexy soak in the hot tub, he’ll show his appreciation for her love and culinary talent by treating her to a massage that blows her mind and melts all stress.


What about you, readers? Do you enjoy vicariously living and experiencing all that is sensual in the romance novels you read?

Wishing you all many happy reading moments,

Shawna Moore
TORMENTED -- Ellora's Cave (MUST-READ from Dark Angel Reviews)
ROUGHRIDER -- Ellora's Cave
HELLE IN HEELS -- Ellora's Cave
Shawna's Myspace
Helle's Myspace

Heroes by the Half Dozen

As you take a few extra breaths and settle in to a more leisurely pace now that Christmas is past, I have something for you to ponder. When I wasn’t baking, decorating or making holiday merry, I recently started plotting a new novel. While the story has taken pretty good shape to the halfway point, I’m still mulling the hero. Often during these times of contemplation, I head to the mall. No better way to observe patterns of speech, mannerisms, body language, etc. than getting up close with my research subject. Amazing how many times a polite conversation during rack browsing has provided great insight as to masculine moods and personality traits. But I’m refraining from this activity until the holiday crowds have markedly dwindled. Instead, I’m letting my imagination take flight. There have definitely been some delightful moments during my fantasy quest for the perfect fictional hero. The mind is a powerful tool, and I didn’t have to jockey for a parking space for my prototyping journey.

If you were writing a romance, which of the following men would you cast as your hero and why? I’ve chosen my favorite and will reveal his identity in next week’s blog post. Well, ladies? Which man wins your heroine’s hand and heart?















Wishing you all many happy reading moments,

Shawna Moore
TORMENTED -- Ellora's Cave (MUST-READ from Dark Angel Reviews)
ROUGHRIDER -- Ellora's Cave Exotika
HELLE IN HEELS -- Ellora's Cave Exotika
Shawna's Myspace
Helle's Myspace

Let's Talk Turkey, Trimmings and Hot Men

This coming Thursday millions will enjoy the company of family and friends as they celebrate a beloved national holiday. But after the dishes are cleared, the day shifts into a lower gear and dining yields to discussion. We catch up on everything and anything that’s happened over the past year and often times the topics broached tend to be downright hilarious, bizarre and/or thought-provoking.

Once you’ve indulged in the last bite of pumpkin pie and you’re sipping a beverage of choice, here are a few interesting facts for sharing:

Cranberries were originally called “craneberries” by the Puritans because of the way the cranberry plant drooped and resembled a crane’s neck.

Benjamin Franklin wanted the turkey declared our national bird.

Fifty percent of Americans put their stuffing inside the turkey (I’m among the 50 percent who don’t)

Turkeys roamed the land colonized as “The Americas” ten million years ago

Southerners tend to make their stuffing from cornbread.

Turducken originated in Louisiana as an alternative to the holiday staples of roasted turkey, roasted duck and roasted chicken.

President Lincoln decreed a Thanksgiving holiday in 1863. In 1941 Congress passed the bill choosing the fourth Thursday in October as our nation’s day of Thanksgiving, and FDR signed the bill.

Turkeys can suffer heart attacks

In only a few seconds, frightened turkeys can accomplish a speed of 50-55 mph while in flight.

Okay, enough of the facts. Now for a special dessert sans calories. Before you ladies head out to the kitchen to tackle the dirty dishes and wrap the leftovers, remember to access the Fierce Romance blog again and sample the sexylicious sweets below.

One thing is certain—with eye candy like this around, I wouldn’t take flight. Chances are you’ll soon want to be tackling something other than the after-meal mess.













Oh, and I couldn’t let the blog end without including a sexy cowboy (my favorite, by far, of all four pics).




Blessings and bounty,

Shawna Moore
TORMENTED -- Available now at Ellora's Cave
ROUGHRIDER -- Ellora's Cave Exotika
HELLE IN HEELS -- Ellora's Cave Exotika
Shawna's Myspace
Helle's Myspace

Thanks Giving

As Thanksgiving nears and I sit here sipping my morning coffee, I realize there are many people and things for which I’m truly grateful. With the good times come the bad, but when all is said and done, the following precious items on my list increase in value with the passage of time.


PARENTS – my greatest gift for their love, caring, guidance and steadfast support







FRIENDS – without whom the world would be a lonelier and less enjoyable place






GOOD HEALTH – two words that say it all






LIFE –






JOBS – one of which employs my left brain, the other which indulges my right










BOOKS – especially my latest release at Ellora's Cave. Turning their paper and e-pages has brought me so much happiness since childhood




LOVE – good for the heart, mind and soul





NATURE’S BEAUTY – takes my breath away much as would a lover’s kiss






BELIEF SYSTEM AND FAITH – instilled at a young age and continuously nurtured to remain strong






FOND MEMORIES - of seasons past




KISSES – guaranteed to warm me on the coldest winter day








GOOD NIGHT'S SLEEP - to recharge and renew





TIME – for spending with every item on my list




SHOES - these feet of mine were made for walking and being covered for all occasions




IMAGINATION – without which I couldn’t create my characters and their fantasy worlds






CHOCOLATE – decadent, delightful and a must-have in my daily routine









SEXY MEN – my favorite example is the cover of my Exotika release, ROUGHRIDER. Eye candy that feeds me in the most delicious way






ENDLESS PAMPERING POSSIBILITIES – working hard means relaxing in special ways





I’m sure if I mulled my list long enough, it would exponentially expand. But these are the ones that quickly come to mind. Readers, share some of the things for which you’re thankful.


Wishing you all blessings and bounty,

Shawna Moore
TORMENTED – Available now at Ellora’s Cave
ROUGHRIDER – Ellora’s Cave Exotika
HELLE IN HEELS – Ellora’s Cave Exotika
Shawna’s Myspace
Helle’s Myspace