The Snow Job

Happy January!

I know it's cold outside in most parts of the earth, and I'm always ready for spring to come, but in the meantime, it certainly is nice weather to cuddle up with a book. And, of course, I have one I'd like to recommend. lol

Most brides on their wedding day are worried about their hair, their make-up, and setting up perfect family pictures, but Marina Fareeky's got bigger worries. In The Snow Job, Para Marshall Fareeky plans the ultimate sting operation to capture the head of the Nicholas vampyre clan, but she's in for an unsettling surprise. Just before she begins her walk down the aisle into the arms of one very tempting paranormal fugitive, she's informed by headquarters that a truce has been reached with the clan, and she's on her own. With no backup and trapped in the icy tundra at the top of the world, Marina has few choices. Escape means exposure, to both the elements and to the paranormal guests her fiance invited to the wedding, who will be none too pleased to discover that she's a Para Marshall. With no other options, she faces marriage to an otherworldly groom or certain death. Now the one who has been hunting her with the intent to make her his own forever awaits at the altar, and the wedding march has just begun...

The Snow Job has been one of my favorites because it was my first attempt at writing a vamp erotica story. Aleksi is gloriously proud and stubborn, and Marina has no patience for lawbreakers, so their chemistry was great fun to script. I hope if you get a chance to read it that you think so, too. Happy Reading!

I'm Proud of That Kind of Book

My next erotica reprint, Lilly's Reward, will be out soon, and it's gotten me thinking. Last summer, my DH and I took a trip to a used bookstore to trade some books. Of course, I took a few erotica novels by my favorite authors along to exchange. During a conversation I was having with the young woman assessing the books, she started talking about things people leave in the books they drop off because she found a really old bookmark in one of my husband's mystery novels. She handed it to me and then rattled off some of the various items that some people had left in their books--bank account statements, grocery lists, even family heirlooms. After she said the last one, she pointed to one of the erotica novels and said something like, "Although we'd never find an heirloom in THAT kind of book."

Excuse me? In THAT kind of book?

Now, I realize erotica is not on everyone's list of favorite genres, and I get that given the mature subject matter, someone's grandmother isn't likely to leave her diamond and ruby antique hair comb in the pages of a book with nearly naked people holding whips and feathers, nor will that book probably be passed down to the grandkids as an heirloom itself. It's not the family Bible. However, I kind of took offense to the young woman's remark. I felt like she thought about erotica like so many people do, that it's just page after page of sex scenes written to titillate with no story at all, or even if she didn't feel that way, she sent the message that someone would be embarrassed to leave an erotic novel to a relative, even if it was her favorite all time book ever.

It irks me that it seems like only books like War and Peace can be considered "classic" novels. Why can't a purely erotic story be a classic? I'm not saying mine are, but I've read some great erotic novels that rival the works of the most famous authors in the world. I didn't take the time to explain this to the book assessor girl, because she finished and gave me my order ticket and it was time to do one of my favorite things: scan the book aisles. But I never forgot what she said and can't help but wonder if the perception of erotica will ever change. In the meantime, I think I'll go get a few copies of some of my books and tuck them away somewhere for the next generation. :)

On a different note, next week, on July 17th, I'll be posting an interview with K. K. Weil, author of the new adult romance At This Stage. She'll be giving away one free copy of her book to the commenter of the day, whose name will be randomly drawn from all the those who comment on the interview. Please feel free to join us next Thursday for a chance to get to know K. K. and her book. We hope to see you there!
Happy Reading!

The Devil's Daughter Dares to Leave Hell

Hellé is damned if she does and damned if she doesn't...leave Hell before another sunrise.

After the ten-thousandth fight with her father, the Devil's daughter is forced to surrender her trident and true love in order to save Earth from devastation of a magnitude it's never known. More than a few pulses are raised when Hellé Hawthorn and her minions hit Sin City on the hottest day of summer and make their business every man's pleasure.

Excerpt from the erotica paranormal romance, HELLE IN HEELS by Shawna Moore --

Naked except for some of my favorite gold jewelry, I took one last look at the hellhole that had served as my private domain since birth. Lavender-blue deposits of ameniorite, a rare gem as yet undiscovered by those aboveground, twinkled where my mirrors weren’t placed. Gorgeous ameniorite, the miracle rock that would seal the success of my elixir—or drop me back down to Hell and a fiery grave. A glance in all directions made my last memory.

Whatever I needed, I would pick up at the chic boutique on Bourbon. On the cedar chest, my favorite Kate Spade satchel lay open. If I were into blessing people, I’d bless the generous clotheshorse that descended here after an untimely death late last week. Who would have thought my pairing her with a wicked fashion designer would gain me such a special gift? She’d perished while still clutching that trendy piece and brought it with her to Hell. What a shame to let that lovely handbag behind. But better here than being reduced to ashes upon my special ascent.

Caminosh would find my goodbye note and claim the spring bag sought by many on Earth. She was a she-beast totally clueless about fashion but a friend to the end. Too bad she wouldn’t part company with her hell-raiser and accompany me to what lay thousands of feet above us. I blew a kiss at the far mirror. As long as she polished these lovelies, I wouldn’t care if she took over my favorite spot in the whole wide underworld.

But if a single fingerprint marred their shiny surfaces, I’d find a way to pay her a visit on Halloween and make her ass-length brunette hair curl like a poodle’s.

I wound my black mane into a knot and fastened it with a fistful of pins. They’d likely all fall out upon my ascent, but at least they’d keep my hair in place until then. Stifling a yawn, I flexed the fingers not covered from bottom knuckle to middle by bands of gold. Once I arrived in New Orleans I’d pay for my shopping spree with a couple of them. The shop owner would be far ahead in the transaction, since I always believed in heavy tipping.

I might be the Devil’s daughter, but I never had to steal anything—even a date to the Devilish Debs dress balls in years past.

And once I hit the jackpot at Harrah’s, my day spa and massaging divas would be on the lips of every male.

I claimed the vial from the champagne satin comforter, pulled out the cork and tossed down the bitter deep-purple contents. My gut roiled but soon got over its snack. Hopefully my body would cooperate once I passed from my world to the real world. Unknown to others, I’d reached the Kellion level several times but my lack of focus and the fact I had the hots for a particularly handsome former rugby player prevented me from breaking through.

Today failure wasn’t an option. If I did, I’d perish in the pit of which so many had spoken in hushed tones. Hell wasn’t home for me anymore, with Satan out to claim more than my soul because of a good argument gone bad after too many rounds and too many centuries.

I smashed the vial against the far cave fall and ground the glass shards into the spaces in the rock flooring.

Without a backward glance I rushed from the room and made my way to the Crystal Chamber. My body was already vibrating, my bones closing upon themselves. I quickened my pace and traveled through the various tunnels and passageways at warp speed.

At reaching the sapphire-inlaid altar, I clutched myself, fingernails digging into the flesh of my triceps. Flames rose from the adjacent fire pits. Smoke curled toward an interminable blackness. The same blackness my body would soon penetrate. A tapping beset my skin. I stared at the stalactites encrusted with rich mineral deposits. Those deposits contained the most powerful energy down here other than that emanating from His Royal Pain-in-the-Ass, my father, the Devil.

I took several steps to the right and poised my right great toe over the rendering of Bacchus and the left over the Pyramids. Egypt and Rome were diametrically opposed cultures, but my research and formulas yielded these were my markers for a journey to New Orleans. My skin pulsed and violent spasms rocked me from my hair roots to my heels. I stretched my arms toward the sky that lay well beyond this world and my imagination. Energy exchanged between my body and the space where the crystals lay. Every pore on my body now seeped the substance providing the elements and energy that would draw me up and away from the world where I no longer belonged.

A peculiar force hauled me from the platform and I closed my eyes. The stench of damp rock. The nipple ring leaving my flesh. Cold fingers of air teasing my exposed body. A din that rendered me deaf except to the voice inside my own head. The voice that willed me to focus. Focus on getting the hell out of Hell.

As the air lightened, I opened my eyes. Swarms of mila bugs, each almost translucent and no bigger than a pin’s head, flitted in front of my face. As my ascent stopped I puffed them away. I’d reached Kellion. Opening my fists, I drew my left middle fingertip over one of the protruding crystals directly above my head. Blood oozed from the wound and I milked out several more droplets. Then, placing my bleeding finger upon my tongue, I closed my mouth and eyes and focused.

“Blood from my body, serve as the final catalyst that allows me to pierce the Kellion and reach my desired portal.” I repeated the words over and over.

My body pulsed, this time as though tossed by the waves of the ocean during a storm. I shot upward, my hair wrenched from the pins and nearly pulled out by the roots. Bile rose in my throat. Tears burned behind my closed lids. Hot and cold air alternated in currents over my damp skin.

Bring it on, Bacchus. Laissez les Bon Temps Rouler. Let those good times roll like never before.

Click here for more information about HELLE IN HEELS

Click here for information about TO HELLE AND BACK AGAIN

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

Romance Fiction--Where Do I Begin?

Beginnings and endings of my books are always the hardest parts for me to craft, especially the beginnings. "Fish out of water" and "reunion" stories are two of my favorites, for reading and for writing. I want to make sure to capture a reader's imagination from the start, and this can primarily be accomplished by placing the hero and heroine at the right moment in their romantic time line. Loving relationships are very precious. Just as a couple strives to sustain love and open dialogue, if a writer gets this journey out of the gate at the wrong pace, or forces a couple together before they are ready, a reader's interest will wane and the love story will become a fictional fatality.

In my erotica romantic suspense, ROUGHRIDER, Kimberly Taylor has decided to turn her relationship with Jack Dodson from platonic to passionate. She's a workaholic who rarely makes time for play until her feelings and frequent thoughts of her high-school "friend" are too difficult to deny. Jack has left the rodeo circuit and craves stability in a life he has always lived on the edge. I started this novel at the point where Kimberly finally agrees to take a short vacation and see if she can slay some of the sexual demons dogging her night and day. But once her curiosity strays from the welcoming safety of Jack's ranch, she learns the truth behind the troubled months and years that have passed during their time apart.





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

Seven Sentences of Tension and Torment

Bitten by a venomous beetle.

Drawn to the handsome doctor who promises her heal her sexually and physically.

Can he purge the poison from her body and her soul?




Here is an excerpt from my historical erotica romance, TORMENTED.

Click on this link for more information


At her nod he slipped another spoonful between her lips, and 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?”

Wishing you 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

Exciting with an E!

What more appropriate topic for the week when I start a new adventure than excitement?

Weeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeee!

I've been contemplating trying to sell some stories on Amazon Kindle for a long time, and I've finally done it. It was hard, hard work, but it's been worth it and quite a learning experience for me. I'm sure there are mistakes in it, but right now I'm just basking in the glow of having tried something new.

Weeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeee!

Like most writers, I have a body of work I haven't sold, for one reason or another, that I keep filed away for a rainy day. I love to take out these stories and tweak them, but if they don't fit any publisher's needs, what's a girl writer to do?

Publish them herself!

The result of one such effort is Music Box: Lesbian Erotica, which is comprised of two short stories--each with some kind of music connection--celebrating lesbian love and the wonderful difficulties of finding the woman of your dreams. In The Dance Lesson, Tammy's bad habits and bad taste in bed partners is challenged when her friend Mil drags her to a salsa lesson offered by a world-renowned dance instructor. He's a psychotic little tyrant, but the one saving grace is his assistant, the gorgeous Anna, whose shy innocence captivates Tammy and, if she survives The Dance Lesson, will change her luck in love for the better.

In The Finest Lick, Lea is obsessed with the idea of having oral sex with a woman but figures her fantasy will never come true. She starts dating Dag Werner, a 1980s pop star and comeback artist, and is on the road to marital bliss when he insists she meet his daughter, Dagny. The beautiful gallery owner awakens in Lea a desire that resurrects her dead daydream, and Lea must decide what she truly wants for herself--one night with the woman of her dreams or a lifetime of wondering what it would have been like.

Thanks for sharing my excitement! Until next week...

Weeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeee!

Time and Love -- Hang on to Your Hopes

One of the most prolific duos in Pop music sang of hanging on to your hopes. Time passes. Scenery changes. But Simon and Garfunkel warned one must hold on to hope and keep the faith, no matter how bleak the situation. When it comes to love--real life or a fictional romance that unfolds between a book's covers--many precious relationships wouldn't have had a chance to stand the test of time if the couple involved hadn't taken a leap in the name of love.

One of my favorite themes to read or write involves a reunion. A rekindling of passion. The confession of a childhood crush that's matured and found roots in all the possibilities romance has to offer. A moment when time takes a deep breath and awaits the first embrace along the path to a pair's forever. The passage of time may have changed the hero's and heroine's physical appearance, but the feelings held in their hearts have grown stronger with each turn of a calendar page.

Kimberly Taylor and Jack Dodson have lost track of each other since the first pangs of teenage passion held them willing prisoners. Now they are on a collision course set by Cupid. A course the proves true love doesn't fade over time.

Time is bent on being their enemy in ROUGHRIDER, but they refuse to lose track of it or each other ever again.

Here's a video bit from my Erotica romantic suspense from Ellora's Cave Exotika:



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

Finally the Fantasy Becomes Reality

Every woman has an ultimate fantasy. Maybe that fantasy involves role- playing or a steamy getaway? Perhaps she's always dreamed of meeting a guy who's willing to do everything possible to make her fondest dreams and wishes become reality? Or maybe she's hoping to be swept away in mind-blowing moments of passion with a man she's secretly loved for many years--a passion that's grown stronger with each day that's passed since Dana last saw Jack.

Dana Taylor's a serious-minded businesswoman who's always put most of her energy into the Western-wear boutique she owns and operates. Free-wheeling Jack Dodson is a former rodeo champ who's tired of his glory days on the circuit and is bent on settling down and co-managing a ranch in Mesa Junction, Texas.

An excerpt from my erotica romantic suspense, ROUGHRIDER, occurs when Dana's fantasy never had a better chance at becoming reality.

“Jack’s sittin’ over there now.” He hitched a thumb toward the most delicious thing in this busy eatery. “Probably figuring how to deal with the woman you’ve become. As kids you two were tight as Harriet Lloyd’s pants.”

No sense telling Clyde that Jack was the main reason I’d come back. Clyde’s order could have been shipped but this visit-cum-vacation gave me an excuse to check out the guy of my dirtiest fantasies.

“Couldn’t stay away from Gloria’s fried chicken and buttermilk biscuits.” Wasn’t any of his business a far different appetite brought me back to Mesa Junction.

Placing his hands on his lower back, Clyde stretched. “Jack’s single. Wild as ever. Can’t say he hasn’t likely had his share of… Dated lots of women. But I’m betting you could set him straight.”

As long as I could set my childhood friend’s cock straight, that was first priority.
“You have my cell phone number. And the Mariana store’s number. Let Linc or me know if something doesn’t suit you all with the order.” And please let me get back to the late supper containing more calories than I’ve consumed in almost two days.

His arm came around my shoulders and the silver arrowhead on his bolo flashed. “Get on over there and kick some sense into Jack’s stubborn ass.” The palm slapped gently between my shoulder blades. “If he’ll listen to anyone, he’ll listen to you.”

A pivot of my feet put my both shoes in a semi-straight path with my lunch counter stool. “Nice talking with you today. Give my best to Trudy.” I peeked over my shoulder.

He walked away, stopped near the booth where Danny Noonan sat, and waved. “Sure will. Stop by if you get a chance. Ron Crawford still lives beside us. He never got over you.”

Never got over me? My feet paused over a crackling floor tile. I never even dated that nuisance who stuck cotton candy in my hair one summer at the county fair.

Suffering him for several weeks each summer was more than enough torture.

Jack disliked that mama’s boy as much as I. Sexy Jack gulped some of his soda and glanced in my direction. I swallowed a laugh. At my request, he would have helped me hogtie that little snitch years ago, then toss Danny into one of his daddy’s rusted-out fishing boats and shove him out of sight.

Footsteps came from behind. “Don’t ever let those stars in your eyes fade.” Clyde’s whisper hit my left ear.

A shake of my head sent the childhood memory back where it belonged. “Perhaps blood vessels from lack of sleep but hardly stars.” And it was time to end those sleepless nights and satisfy the hunger that consumed me.

The hunger for Jack Dodson.

While my recent dreams had him served up hot, naked and covered in blond hair on those cool white cotton sheets back in my king-sized bed in Mariana, I could accomplish the same on his bed here in Mesa Junction.

The place didn’t matter. The sexy man did.

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

Guest - Marie March - Lurid or Lusty

Lurid or Lusty
The Challenges of Writing Erotica
By Marie March

In recent years, the mind-set toward Erotica has become more progressive and well received. However, in spite of forward thinking attitudes, there still exists a puritanical state of mind towards "blue" language, sexuality and sexual slang both in print media and the spoken word. Yet, interestingly enough these rules do not readily apply to romance writers, and more specifically the erotica writer.

Though somewhat forbidden in just about every other form of literature, on the whole it is deemed acceptable, as well as expected, the inclusion of "filthy" words in the erotica narrative.

Often times, physical intimacy transforms into sensual, passionate, and in some cases extreme sexual experiences. In erotica, carnal desire translates into down and dirty verbiage intended to arouse the characters in the story, as well as the readers themselves. Since a large number of readership(s) choose these stories specifically for stimulation and fantasy, no one writing in this genre should feel ashamed purposely targeting a reader's guilty pleasure. Exploring human sexuality with honesty, an open mind and even a dash of humor, in a society often inhibited or reticent, can be a freeing practice.

Now, this does not mean your complete storyline has to read like a recent parolee's travelogue through the red-light district in Amsterdam, as riveting as that may sound. All it really means is for an erotica writer to stay true to the genre, the thoughtful use of (perceived) taboo words should have no limitations--so go ahead--write a story that will make your readers upper and lower cheeks burn!

www.mariemarch.com
Savage Cravings May 2010
Insatiable Jul 2010
Let It Bleed Oct 2010
The Selkie Jan 2011
http://wwwcelticqueens.blogspot.com
www.authorlisamcampbell.com
www.myspace.com/mariemarch
www.twitter.com/shoogabean

What's New With Red Sage

First let me start by introducing myself. I’m Theresa Stevens, managing editor for Red Sage Publishing, a 15-year-old print house with a 2-year-old e-books division. We’re best known for the Secrets anthologies and for discovering such luminaries as Angela Knight, MaryJanice Davidson, Larissa Ione, Emma Holly, Liz Maverick, and several other names that might be familiar to Fierce Readers -- including several of the Fierce Authors!

Red Sage was the first American publisher to release erotic romance stories for a female readership. The concept, as you might know, took off. Erotic romance became the hot trend of the new millennium, and many new publishing houses came on the scene. A lot has changed in the market, and in some ways, Red Sage has changed with it. We now sell e-books, for example, and although novellas will always be part of our core line-up, we’re moving into novels in a more purposeful way. (Now would be a good time to submit your erotic romance novel of 50-80k words for our e-books line!)

But in other, more important ways, Red Sage hasn’t changed. We still want stories which are first and foremost well-told romances. Character and emotion are important. Yes, sex sells, but once the shock value of a specific sex trend has worn off, what keeps people reading these stories are great characters, powerful emotions, and happy endings. They might buy because they like the sexual aspects, but they continue buying because they get something deeper and more moving than empty porn. They get a story told from the heart.

So, with that said, here’s where we are today. The Secrets anthologies are still going strong, though preference for those slots goes to existing Red Sage authors. If you want to be in Secrets, sell to Red Sage Presents (our e-books line) first. We also have a very small line of print novels, and at some point, we plan to grow that line. For now, though, we’re releasing novels in e-books first with the possibility of print later.

Our e-books division is growing. We’re preparing to launch a new Red Sage website -- it will be lovely! -- and we’re focusing on increasing market penetration for our e-books titles. Look for your titles at your favorite e-bookstores! Some of our e-books will soon be available in print, too. We think of digital and print as different formats, different containers for content. We don’t think there should be any quality distinction between the formats. (And our reviews reflect this. Our authors get consistently high marks, regardless of the format for their stories.)

But e-books do allow us to take chances that aren’t always available with print, which is a defined container. E-books are more flexible. We can create hyperlinks within the text in a branching story (Megan’s Choice by Ellie Marvel), release stories in serial format (Secret Confessions of Lady H by Bethany Michaels), and try other experiments with form and function. The files aren’t limited by length, so if we want to include a mini-magazine in each file -- complete with recipes, interviews, and excerpts -- we can do so. It’s fun to work outside the boundaries of the printed page.

I would be happy to answer any questions about submissions in the comments. But if you’re first and foremost a reader, let me recommend a few of our stories.
- Sex & the Single Pearl by Mia Varano. If you’ve been shy of menage stories because you’re “not that kind of girl,” this is the menage story that will change your mind. Even good girls can have naughty fun!
- Scarlett & the Sheriff by Carly Carson. When we talk about great characters, this is what we mean. Scarlett is a real humdinger, and she shakes up Rand’s world with every move she makes. A bright and engaging contemporary, plus handcuffs!
- Forbidden Fruit by Anne Rainey. This story is the best of both worlds -- a smoking hot erotic romance and a traditional romance, all blended together in one beautiful plot. I love the makeover and the way she teases him!
- Nameless Surrender by Kris Daniels. Red Sage has a reputation for quality and for finding the next new wave of top authors. It’s books like this one that keep the reputation alive. Dark, pulsating, and emotional.
- Quinn’s Curse by Natasha Moore. I almost wrote “anything by Natasha Moore” because it’s so hard to pick just one of her stories. Quinn’s Curse is an unusual story -- a ghost pirate and the woman he haunts -- and Red Sage is known for these amazing, oustide-the-box stories.
- Devil in a Kilt by Nicole North. This is the first in a planned trilogy of Secrets stories involving Highland warriors and shapeshifters. You have to read this one first, and then the second one, which I love, comes out in summer 2010.
- Second Nature by Cameo Brown. This story is so creative and inventive. I promise you, after reading this one, you’ll never again take a walk in the woods without thinking of it. (Trust me on this. I live next to a forest!)

---

Thanks so much for being our guest here at FR today, Theresa!

Everyone, yes, if you have questions for Theresa, please ask. (She loves questions. :))

Thanks!

Nicole

Tall, Dark and Handsome...Hardly All a Woman Wants

Fortunate is the woman who finds a loving, commitment-focused man early in her life. A man who remains dedicated to strengthening their romance from the first day they meet until death parts them. Real-life heroes are hard to find, but once we find them we do our best to return their affection and share a life with them—a life filled with hope and happiness.

For all the heroes there are also sexy diversions in disguise…

Flirty guys who dance into our lives for a few moments or a season. A fling with them may prove fun, but it seldom makes for monogamy or a happily-ever-after.








Bad boys are born to wreak havoc with a woman’s heart, and they delight on living life in the fast line. Balancing on the blade of the proverbial knife suits their lifestyle, and they don’t mind skipping out if something they temporarily find more interesting crosses their Harley’s path.







What do I find most appealing about a man I’d consider a perfect significant other?

Rugged hero. He’s the guy who doesn’t let anything stand in the way of his love or life with his heroine. Sure he has his separate pursuits, and she has hers, but together the make a team capable of withstanding life’s turmoil.








Helpful guy around the house. He knows dividing household tasks doesn’t take away from his masculinity. He’s secure in his love and knows you’ll show your appreciation for his kindness a thousand-fold. The couple that keeps house together has a better chance of staying together, IMO.









True romantic. He scatters rose petals over the sheets and sips from the same spot on the champagne glass where your lips touched. Despite a hectic work schedule, he always finds time for date nights and cuddling with you on the living room couch.








Outdoorsman. He knows how to build a campfire and start a fire in your heart. You’ll never be lost when this godsend with a built-in compass takes your hand along the pathways of devotion.








Guy who’ll go to great depths for your welfare and to satisfy your passions and wildest desires.








Thoughtful guy. He always remembers what you like and delights in surprising you on a day when everything in your world has been turned upside down. He’s all about face value, too. No sneaking around or hidden agendas.








Protector. This man will go to the mat to win your love and keep you safe from harm. He won’t run at the first sign of danger or demand his way is the only way.








These are some of the many traits I find appealing and necessary in any man I’d consider for a real-life hero. Tall, dark and sexy…? Those are great, but I’d trade them in a heartbeat for a shorter, fairer and average-looking guy if he possessed the heroic traits I’ve mentioned. Looks fade. A meant-to-be relationship filled with love, caring, open conversation, and commitment lasts. While I truly enjoy writing those Alphas and bad boys as heroes, I prefer commitment over devil-may-care. This Cinderella is definitely being careful where she drops her slipper ;)

Would love hearing your thoughts on this topic, readers. Hope you all are having a fantastic holiday weekend!

Wishing you all many happy reading moments,

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

Stirring Curiosity, Not a Cauldron

Imagine living in a most tempestuous time. A period when hysteria rose to, and surpassed, a fevered pitch. Resulted in a din that swelled over the seaboard and blanketed surrounding communities. Blame it all on jealousy and resentment? Perhaps on the fact a woman who lived in the farthest cottage was comelier than you? That sexual curiosity spurred experimentation more than most cared to admit?




By now you may have guessed the point in time most piquing my interest is that when innocent villagers were accused of casting spells, cavorting with evil and bringing ruination upon their Puritan neighbors. My fascination and quest to discover the root of this discontent goes back to my teen years. One of the classics I’ve most enjoyed reading is THE SCARLET LETTER by Nathaniel Hawthorne. Of course his great-grandfather, Colonel John Hathorne, presided over The Salem Witch Trials.

I’ve often pondered how I would have dealt with the blow of wagging tongues and pointing forefingers casting me as a witch? As someone deemed improper and in league with the Devil? As a woman who’s always embraced Freedom of Speech, and believed a person is innocent until proven guilty--even though these blessings weren't in evidence back then--I would have likely bitten my tongue in two while fighting the urge to air my defense against such aspersions. The very moment I would have dared act as my own counsel, such temerity and strong will would have branded me a sinner—one of those who dabbled in potions, saw yellow birds and dreamed of things a proper woman wouldn’t.

On visits to Salem, Massachusetts, I’ve delighted in conducting historical research and admiring the architectural splendor of a town so richly steeped in history and mystery. I don’t hold to the notion hags ever stirred bubbling cauldrons brimming with Eye of Newt, snakes and other sundry items from Satan’s kingdom. Certainly some fashioned candles from hog fat and churned butter. Some stirred bowls of stew. But witches wearing billowing capes and pointed black hats are not what I’ve envisioned.




Human nature is something great minds strive to explain. A fungal infestation of rye may have affected the behavior of the young women who fell into fits in the courtroom. As well, we must realize these women, these spastic accusers, were of an impressionable age. An age when they were sexually developing and curious as to the ways between men and women. I’m of the belief bundling boards were ineffective barriers when a sexually aroused man and woman were lying in the same bed. Sexual indiscretions and unwed mothers happened in Salem Village of yore. And were these young women tempted and taught more than their school and church lessons?

What really sparked those seasons of discontent in the sleepy village of Salem? I’ve written two stories that explore the “witch” lore and legend—one is a historical erotica romance, the other is a contemporary erotica romance. A third tale is plotted. Those of you who’ve read HELLE IN HEELS and my latest erotica romance, TO HELLE AND BACK AGAIN, will know of my fictional nod to the time period about which I’ve blogged today.



HELLE is damned if she does and damned if she doesn't...

Click here for more information and an excerpt

Click here for a steamier excerpt



Click here for more information and an excerpt

Click here for a steamier excerpt

Here’s wishing you all many happy reading and researching moments…

Shawna Moore
TO HELLE AND BACK AGAIN -- Ellora's Cave Exotika
TORMENTED -- EC (Recommended Read at Alternative-Read.com and Dark Angel Reviews)
ROUGHRIDER -- Ellora's Cave Exotika
HELLE IN HEELS -- Ellora's Cave Exotika
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

Sunday Sundae (aka The Most Romantic Dessert)

As I pondered the blog topic for today, I let myself drift back in time to a special Sunday in May.

A Sunday memory made possible by the man of my wildest and most passionate dreams. Not a bit of breeze or cloud in the sky. A lush lawn and weeping willows. Birds serenaded us from the branches. Underneath one of the trees he’d scattered orchid petals and formed a heart. Although we’d fed each other bites of grilled filet, buttery baked potato and tossed garden salad, and sipped champagne, he asked me to close my eyes while he prepared our dessert. His footfall was cushioned by the blades of grass. I lolled inside the floral heart, my pulse pounding and body tingling. He returned after a short while, gently kissed my closed eyelids and tapped my mouth with something cold and metallic. A spoon, or so my curious tongue discovered. I peeked. He wore a wide grin, and his brown eyes flashed a familiar message. His left hand held a dish inside of which he’d created a mouthwatering sundae. Four large scoops of chocolate ice cream, each dripping with fudge sauce, wearing dollops of whipped cream and crowned with a cherry. He lay down beside me, and we took turns spoon-feeding each other. Laughing when some of the dessert trickled onto our chins. Wasn’t long before two of the frozen peaks disappeared and we rested the spoons in the pool of melted cream at the bottom of the dish. I lay on my back and closed my eyes again. At his request I opened my mouth, and he squeezed maraschino cherry juice over my lips and tongue. His kiss came faster than I could clean off the sweet stickiness and not only took away the cherry juice but also my breath. After that sneaky and sexy trick, I kept my eyes open wide. He reached behind the tree and brought forward the champagne bucket, now filled with a can of whipped topping. He sprayed a ring of cream around my mouth. Without looking away, he dunked the can into the ice bucket and pressed his lips against mine. Hot. Sweet. His tongue and mouth spreading and sharing the topping and another deep kiss. We embraced but not before he grabbed the can and started shaking it. I’ll never forget his next words—“You’d better get ready, because this dessert is far from over.”

He wasn’t kidding.

Ah, the sundaes of which fantasies are made and brought to life. Romantic moments and memories such as this one are part of the reason I enjoy writing romance fiction. After all, the love of a wonderful man can make all the difference in a woman’s life.






Wishing you all many happy reading—and romantic—moments,

Shawna Moore
TORMENTED -- Ellora's Cave
ROUGHRIDER -- Ellora's Cave Exotika
HELLE IN HEELS -- Ellora's Cave Exotika
TO HELLE AND BACK AGAIN -- Coming April 29 to EC Exotika
Shawna's Myspace
Helle's Myspace

Let's Talk About...Dialogue

With each story I write, I become more enthusiastic. Blame it on the thrill of the unknown. How the characters and plot develop and overcome the obstacles I deal them. What happens if I decide to make the book’s setting become antagonistic and temporarily thwart the goals of my hero and heroine? How can I keep upping the ante on the conflict to deliver the maximum reader impact? Will the universalities and theme I’ve chosen resonate with readers?

All of these are things I consider during the writing and editing process, but one element of storytelling sparks my greatest passion—dialogue. Whether my tale is told from the Louisiana bayou, a small town in Texas, an otherworld teeming with demons and despicable characters, or the Lower Eastside of Manhattan during the Jazz Age when speakeasies and corruption reigned supreme, the people who live on the fictional pages must deliver convincing dialogue.

My research for dialogue involves acute listening skills and observation of body language. Whenever I’m out and about, or even when I’m lunching with family and friends, I make note of mannerisms, personalities and speech patterns. How emotions play a huge role in a person’s gestures, tone and message content. Some men are excellent conversationalists, but most are subdued and speak far fewer words than we women. Most women can’t stand the silent treatment. The way my heroes and heroines speak also hinges on how I’ve scripted them. During the editing process, I read each character’s dialogue passages aloud. If they have a speech quirk, impediment, dialect or accent, I recognize these when playing their role. In essence, although we authors are writing fiction, we strive to make our characters believable and ones to whom readers can relate. For example, rugged guys don’t think about the way golden waves of a woman’s hair skim her forehead when they’re looking at her for the first time. Doting, far-from-Alpha men don’t swagger and spout profanities. A cowboy wouldn’t think about how much he adored a woman’s crimson frock or patent-leather aubergine satchel with eye-catching kiss-lock closures and stunning hardware, and he wouldn’t talk about the same, either.

When all is said and done, much like cathedral bells, dialogue must ring true. What are your thoughts on dialogue and the role it plays in the romances you read? Can you “hear” the characters speaking as you read their story?

Wishing you all many happy reading moments,

Shawna Moore
TORMENTED -- Ellora's Cave (Must-Read from Dark Angel Reviews)
ROUGHRIDER -- Ellora' Cave Exotika
HELLE IN HEELS -- Ellora's Cave Exotika
TO HELLE AND BACK AGAIN -- Coming April 29 to EC Exotika
Shawna's Myspace
Helle's Myspace

Supernatural Heroines--Not Just For the Comics Anymore

When younger I marveled at the comic book heroes whose bravery and quest for justice remained unflagging in the face of danger and personal devastation. I’m one who has always cheered for good to defeat evil. For right to overpower wrong. I longed to, someday, create my own super-heroine. An otherworldly woman who fit the modern mold, defended her loved ones and friends, put the welfare of others first, cherished her independence but also desired a romance with the man of her fondest dreams. You could say Hellé Hawthorn is a blend of Carrie Bradshaw of Sex and the City and Lara Croft of Tomb Raider fame.



Click here for more information and an excerpt from HELLE IN HEELS


Helle Hawthorn is the heroine of HELLE IN HEELS, my first Exotika release at Ellora’s Cave. She is the daughter of the Devil and a mortal woman. She was gifted with her father’s good looks and charm, but she has her mother’s kind nature and conscience. Of course, this makes for the perfect conflict between her and her father. Women will relate to HELLE IN HEELS because this erotic tale explores the feminine tendencies of self-sacrifice and nurturing. Helle shows readers how women can dare slaying their sexual demons and finding fulfillment in more ways than one. But her bloodline doesn’t save her from being dealt the ultimate blow. She is banished from Hell and forced to leave behind her otherworldly powers and true love in order to save Earth from Satan’s destruction. She uses her intelligence and demonstrates unflagging determination when escaping a hellish situation that's getting hotter with each passing moment. Helle is quite adventurous and a sexual being, but she doesn't hesitate putting another's needs before her own when a situation warrants. Quite a candid woman, she tells one lover she's, "Your mother's worst nightmare and your daddy's wettest dream." Despite her sassiness and sex appeal, she never forgets the handsome Greek who brought her love and orgasms below ground. Menlikus, the story's hero, shows how far he will go and how much he will risk for the woman of his wildest and most romantic dreams. HELLE IN HEELS is a tale of personal loss for the gain of the masses. Taking chances to bring peace and betterment to your own life and the lives of others.

The Devil isn't above defeat. Helle and her Greek lover, Menlikus, never surrender their goals despite the fact they’re faced with a dismal situation. They might be otherworldly characters, but they are able to differentiate between love and lust and recognize which means more to them overall. Circumstances drive them apart, but one is often thinking about the other. Helle was such fun to create because I gifted her with a level of intelligence that enables her to outsmart her despot daddy. On reaching Earth, she faces the ultimate sexual obstacles and learns more than one valuable lesson in the process. When I characterized Helle, I wanted to make her multi-faced and enable her to rise above the stereotype that those who dwell in Hades are inherently evil. I also created a world where the Devil isn’t such an all-seeing, all-knowing entity. That he has his limitations and intellectual superiors. I also didn’t want Helle suffering immediate defeat at the hands of the Devil.

The paranormal is blended with an edgy, sassy tone in this Ellora's Cave Exotika tale. If you think you really know what happens in Hell, Helle Hawthorn might change your mind.

Hellé’s next adventures will be published on April 29 by Ellora’s Cave Exotika. TO HELLE AND BACK AGAIN pits Hellé against two villains. Her life and the lives of her friends hinge on a return trip to Hell, and she faces sexual temptation in the most delicious and deadly ways.

Click here to read more excerpts and reviews

Click here to watch the book video for HELLE IN HEELS

Wishing you all out-of-this-world reading experiences,

Shawna Moore
TORMENTED – Ellora’s Cave
ROUGHRIDER – Ellora’s Cave Exotika
HELLE IN HEELS – Ellora’s Cave Exotika
TO HELLE AND BACK AGAIN – Coming April 29 to EC Exotika

Welcome Fierce New Member, Cameo Brown!

We have lots of exciting new members here at Fierce Romance, the latest of which is Cameo Brown!

Cameo Brown is a word freak, book addict, and erotica devotee. She enjoys living in the world of stories, especially the erotic ones, whether reading or writing them. In real life, she lives in the United States with her totally delectable husband, who still doesn't quite understand why she enjoys sitting at the computer so much, and a passel of temperamental felines who are plotting to take over the world. Her novellas and short stories are available from a number of print and electronic publishers.

Nicole: Welcome, Cameo! Please tell us about your books.

Cameo: I've had several books come out since December, from a romantic BDSM romp (A Stranger's Desire) to a erotic cowboy romance (Ride 'Em, Girlfriend) to a futuristic erotic romance that takes place in 2035 (Pleasure 2035). There’s been dragon fantasy, a vampyre story, and my latest will be a shifter. It's been a busy six months!

Nicole: Wow, I'll say! Congratulations on all those releases! Hot covers too! Which element of story creation is your favorite?

Cameo: I love creating characters! I find people, animals and forces of nature fascinating. The male species is especially intriguing to me. I love men, and getting to write about them in their most wild, personal, loving, sexy and crazy moments is an absolute kick!

Nicole: You've hit on one of my favorites (men!) :) What inspires you? What motivates you?

Cameo: Anything and everything inspires me. It can be another writer, like Edgar Allan Poe or Robert Louis Stevenson, or it can be something unusual or mundane, macabre or whimsical, inane or poignant. For example, a really moving story my cousin told me about a little girl she met at her job will be the basis of my next short story. The inspiration for A Stranger's Desire came from a humorous conversation my husband and I had over dinner one night about his mother’s funeral. A Russian waltz I work out to on my IPod inspired Snow Job, my first vampyre story starring a hunky Russian neck nibbler. Another short story released in an Alyson anthology was inspired by my mother’s battle with cancer, and one of my latest--and most favorite--stories was actually inspired by the editor who did the call for submissions for the anthology. He did an amazing job describing what he wanted, and I got so inspired I couldn’t wait to write my first m/m, which will be in the anthology when it comes out this summer. It doesn’t hurt that it’s about the military, and I LOVE a man in uniform!

As for motivation, I’m not really motivated to write per se, I just can’t not write. I’ve got to do it. I’d be writing even if I’d never gotten published. It’s something I really love and I’d go a little nuts if I couldn’t do it.

Nicole: Cool! When did you know you wanted to be an author?

Cameo: I've written stories since I was old enough to use some sort of tool to write with. It's just always been a part of me. I process almost everything through writing of some form or another. I actually wanted to pursue a career in journalism right away, but a teacher who knew nothing about being a published author advised me you can't make a living as any kind of writer. I sort of pushed it out of my mind after that, but never left it completely. I think we always come back to what we love the most.

Nicole: I agree! What is your writing process or method?

Cameo: I basically get the concept (from whatever inspires me or whatever I'm contracted to write about), get to know my characters, and then I do a pre-writing piece to see if things might come together. If they do, I continue with it, revising it until I shape it into whatever the Muse demands (and the Muse is demanding!). If things don’t work out, I shelve it until the time is right to go back to it.

Nicole: Thanks for telling us about yourself, Cameo, and welcome to Fierce Romance! We're thrilled to have you join us!

The Fine Art of Flirting

As those of us who write and read historicals novels know, flirting was one of the fine arts practiced by women in the days of yore. Chaste won over brazen. Touches were fleeting yet, if performed in a certain way, stoked fires of anticipation and desire. Dare the heroine lift her skirt and give the gentleman a peek of her ankle, whether or not she was climbing the stairs? Would she become bold enough to wiggle her pinkie at a prospective suitor while tipping her teacup? Could a turn of her head float her flirtatious laughter over to the man of her most romantic dreams?

Since I’m now again a single woman, I’ve been back into the flirting game and enjoying every minute. One thing I will note, though, is how what one’s partner deems harmless flirting can be immensely hurtful to his significant other. Hurtful and devastating. After all, flirting isn’t without an invitation—be it one boldly lettered or more demurely decorated—designed to attract the attention of someone in whom we’re interested. I’m a firm believer that flirting should be more about the coy than the commando tactics. Choose your flirting subjects wisely, as we live in a fascinating but dangerous world, and be prepared for the delicious results that may follow your wild ways. Married men and men I know have significant others are always forbidden flirting territory.

For me, flirting begins with the eyes. After making brief eye contact, I know whether or not I want to continue the game or move on. If he holds my gaze, this is a sign to take flirting to the next level. While across the room is great for scoping out men with whom I may develop a deeper relationship, closer proximity allows me to trot out my flirting techniques. During a discussion of the economy or a sporting event, I slowly glide my fingers over his lower arm or touch the back of his hand while maintaining eye contact. Sometimes I press my fingers against the back of his wrist to take his radial pulse. In the event he further piques my interest, and I his, we find a place away from the crowd. If we’re enjoying a private conversation and some canapés, I tap the toe of my stiletto or sandal against his calf. Only once. If he moves closer, my flirting shifts into higher gear. When sipping from my glass, I run my tongue around the rim, again while looking him in the eye. If he whets his lips or flares his nostrils, I move closer. By now, my mouth is watering and I’m drinking in more of him than my beverage of choice. Basically it’s a dance. A progression of delightful steps that will hopefully find us on the dance floor or sharing a toe-curling kiss before the evening ends. Before we part ways I know if the flirting has simply proved a fun pursuit for the evening or will lead to future encounters with the guy who’s no longer a sexy stranger. Over the past hour—but who’s keeping track of time, anyway?—he’s told me about himself and I’ve reciprocated. He helps me on with my coat, takes my hand and walks me to my car. We make a date to meet at our favorite coffee shop or part ways wearing smiles. No matter how much I’m attracted, I never give out my phone number to a guy I’ve met for the first time. And we make a date for a future meeting on neutral territory for safety sake. What makes flirting fun is a woman never knows how the story will end. She simply hopes for more chapters in what will become a lifelong romance.

While in Manhattan recently, I flirted with several men, including the handsome guy who helped me with my suitcase at the train station. Someday the timing will be right and those playful interludes will lead to more passionate, and lasting, ones. Flirting can definitely lead to forevers!

Wishing you all many happy reading moments,

Shawna Moore
TORMENTED -- Ellora's Cave
ROUGHRIDER -- Ellora's Cave Exotika
HELLE IN HEELS -- Ellora's Cave Exotika
TO HELLE AND BACK AGAIN -- Coming April 29 to EC Exotika
Shawna's Myspace
Helle's Myspace

What Comes First -- the Physical or the Emotional?

Few moments in a woman’s life top falling in love—whether for the first, second or whatever time. When you look into his eyes. Feel his breath on your cheek as he leans closer to tell you a secret. You place your hand on top of his, and the shared warmth spreads from your fingers to your toes. The way your laughter and his rings in your ears. Your heartbeats travel toward your tongue, and the proper words play hide-and-seek in your mind. His foot bumps yours underneath the table, and you hope the delicious tingling in your body never ends.

Most, if not all, of us have experienced these feelings. When I recently pondered this special moment while plotting another novel, a debate raged within my brain. Woman are romantics. We lose our hearts far more easily than men do. We give our all, promising to love, honor and obey, until death causes a parting of ways. When we meet a new guy and experience the familiar pangs, we sometimes act on our attraction and other times we play it rather coy.

While all this mulling was taking place, I looked back on my past romances. Tried my best at figuring out which ones started as a result of an emotional attraction and which ones were purely physically-driven. Then I realized that, even if I were to ask my old love interests what they thought was the reason they gravitated toward me and a deeper relationship, they truly may not know or respond with the correct answer. And I wouldn’t have a definitive way of knowing the correct answer, either.

How do we really know what initially spurs us to approach another in whom we’re physically or emotionally interested? Is it because we think they are drop-dead sexy and our hormones start raging, or is it because, along with their sex appeal, they’ve always demonstrated a caring attitude toward us and others? Are pheromones coming into play, or is their stroking of our cheek primarily because they want our sorrow to subside, and they touch us only to remove the tears?

Ponder away, readers, and let me know your thoughts.

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
TO HELLE AND BACK AGAIN -- Coming in 2009 to EC
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