The Silver Circle

Touch the silver chain,
Precious links wound ‘round your neck.

Let your fingers stroke
The tiny silken circles.

The cool of metal
Against the warm heat of skin.

Each link is a word.
Forming thoughts.
Creating ideas.
Weaving stories.

What words do you hear?
“Once upon a time…”
“In the terror of the storm…”
“Look to the west, the sun is rising…”

Listen to your heart.
How does your story end?

Search, find the last link.
You know the one, sad but true.

Tired not broken,
Holding the silver circle.

Staying together,
Not willing to be destroyed

What are the last words?
I love you eternally.

Excerpt from LONELY SOUL

Once a month, a bunch of authors get together and post excerpts from published
books, contracted work or works in progress, and link to each other. You don't
have to be published to participate–just an writer with an excerpt you'd like to
share. For more info on how to participate, head over to the Excerpt Monday
site!

Today's post is a bit tame. I needed a little laugh so I thought I'd share this one with you. I promise, next time I'll rock your socks off.



Mike stepped in front of her and took her hands in his. A smile tugged at the corner of his mouth, his eyes danced. He pulled her closer; her heart beat rapidly.

“You think my place is beautiful?”

“It’s like you’ve tried to tame the land but appreciate the wild side by building a log home.”

“I don’t want to tame it, only enjoy the wild side.” His voice was sultry.

“Is that what you want a woman to do to you?”

“What?” He laughed.

“Not tame you but enjoy your wild side.”

“Most definitely,” he growled. “Gotta have a little romance though. You think it’s romantic?”

“Very,” she could barely respond.

The way he looked at her made her knees weak.

A flash of danger went through his eyes and he pulled her closer. He released one of her hands and cupped her face as he brought his head down to hers. His warm lips delicately touched hers.

Heat shot through her body. A soft moan escaped her lips as she molded her body against his. As he ran his hands along her back, she wrapped her arms around his neck and parted her lips, giving in to his sexual pull. Mike deepened the kiss and drew her closer; she stood on her tiptoes. Lauren’s mind whirled dizzily. His mouth caressed hers with intimate experience. Heat came from him and spread through
her body as he teased her tongue.

Mike couldn’t stop himself from kissing Lauren and in reality, he didn’t want to. He was finding that she was everything he had ever dreamed of in a woman. She loved the outdoors, was funny and very sincere. She liked his home and when she said it
was romantic the look in her eyes turned the words into an invitation. The way she responded to his touch fed his fire. He felt himself losing control and he fought to retain it.

He ran his hands up her back to her shoulders, gently ending the kiss. Lauren’s blue eyes looked up at him, clouded with desire; he wanted to kiss more of her. Slowly he took her mouth again and ran his fingers down her throat. His body came alive as her hands skimmed across his shoulders and down his chest. Pausing for a moment, he needed to gather his wits before he took things any farther.

He rested his cheek against hers as he held her. Mike didn’t understand what he was thinking. With any other woman he would have pulled her off the trail and ravished her in the woods. Why was he pausing with Lauren? Why was she any different? She was
obviously offering herself; he could feel it in her reaction. Why was he hesitant in taking her? He was very well experienced in the area of loving women and fulfilling their needs and desires. His normally clear mind was getting foggy. Why was he feeling like a teenager with raging hormones and insecurities? His mind swirled
with questions.

“I like your kisses.” Lauren breath caressed his ear, interrupting his thoughts.

“I like yours, too,” he whispered back.

“Then why did you stop?”

“I’m afraid I might try to do more than kiss you,” he growled.

“So?”

Before he could respond, the dogs started barking hysterically. Mike groaned as he felt Lauren pull out of his arms. Then he didn’t even have to look at the dogs, he smelled what was causing the ruckus.

“Oh no!” Lauren cried.

“Shit!”

The skunk scurried away after spraying the dogs leaving them whining and rubbing their faces in the grass. Mike stood shaking his head. Of all the embarrassing things to happen!
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Thursday Thirteen - 13 Ways to Keep a Relationship Hot Part 2

Sometimes it’s the little things that take on big meaning in a relationship.

1. Bake a fresh batch of cookies. Nobody can resist that wonderful smell. Mom always said, “The best way to a man’s heart is through is stomach.”

2. Make a special dinner for no other reason than “just because” and serve it by candlelight.

3. Turn off the evening TV. Bite your lip in a cute, girlish way and sit in his lap.

4. Watch a game or sport event with him… and actually pay attention. This will earn nice brownie points that pay off later. *wink, wink*

5. Flirt with him. Bring him a jar from the kitchen and tell him you need a "big, strong man" to help you open it. Drop something as you walk by him and bend down as slowly as you can to pick it up. Bat your eyes at him from across the room.

6. Light candles at any time of the day. Many think this is a “woman thing” but guys like them too. The edge of intimacy is always near.

7. Place sexy things like lingerie or toys in places he might find them. Nothing beats his expression when he finds a scented pair of panties in his tool box!

8. Keep sexy items such as massage oils, toys, protection, etc in a cute little basket or a special place both of you know so when the moment arrives, there isn’t a delay in searching for stuff.

9. Exfoliate your skin all over. This is not only healthy but also makes your skin irresistibly touchable. Skin is one of the things men love most about women.

10. Put a skin softening lotion on every night. When he places a kiss on that soft shoulder, he won’t be able to stop himself from letting his lips travel.

11. When you put lotion on, let him watch you. Spread the lotion in slow fluid movements. Watch him drool.

12. Invest in comfortable nightwear. Not all comfy-cozies have to be Grandma’s flannels. There is a lot of cute, comfortable nightwear that is sexy. Don’t forget, you can always slip into one of his t-shirts.

13. Offer a massage when feeling grouchy. It’s a nice way to chase away a case of grumps and bring in a more sensual feeling.

13 Foreplay Fundamentals

I'm not going to waste any time here; I'll get right to my list.

1. Fruit. Sensual fruit such as strawberries, grapes, apple slices and bananas may be easily found in your kitchen and can be a lot of fun to tease with. Try dancing around your partner and feed him bits of fruit while teasing him with your body.
2. Sensual food. Whipping cream (see my 13 Things to Do with Whipping Cream). Chocolate and other sensual foods. (See my Sensual Food Post).
3. A nice beverage. Wine or a cocktail is always nice. Did you know a hot cup of coco or tea can be sensual in its own way especially in winter? Try a cup of spicy Masala Chai, or a tea containing yarrow, or better yet the aphrodisiac tea - Black Galingale.

4. Candles. Men have a tendency to prefer candles that smell like food – vanilla, orange spice, melon. Women may prefer floral scents for romance. Cluster candles on a reflective tray. I like to mix the scents – Lavender, vanilla or orange spice, Hawaiian flower, white tea & ginger. Visit a local candle shop and select candles together for a special evening.

5. Sensual music. What gets you in the mood? Soft jazz for a romantic evening of slow love making? Underground dance music for some creative adventuring? Hard rock for some fierce pounding? I suggest picking out the music in advance and being flexible to your mood at the time. One night you might like soft jazz, the next you might choose something louder.

6. Lingerie. Silk boxers for him, g-string for her? Silk slip? Flannel pants and tight cotton tank? Whatever you feel sexy in is what you should choose. However, latest polls show men don’t like lots of lace and buttons/snaps.

7. Sheets. If you’re taking it to bed think of what feels good under you. Don’t always think silk sheets are the best… flannel sheets are very cozy, especially in the northern regions.
8. Blankets. If you visit my house, you’ll notice a variety of cozy, soft blankets on a blanket rack in the great room. They aren’t just for making kids’ forts. Ever try snuggling on a leather couch under a fleece blanket? Try it!

9. Lotions. Keep ones that sensually inspire your mind and ones that can be licked off.

10. Feather. Ever wonder why romance writers love writing plumes so much. Heh, heh. Next time you’re at the zoo, pick up an ostrich feather or visit you local sex shop for some top notch fun feathers.
11. Blindfold., silk scarves, hand cuffs. Need I say anything more?

12. Love coupons. Pick up a booklet of them or print them on the computer. Hide a coupon in a special place for your honey to find. A great teaser!
13. Romantic games. There’s a wide variety out there. A great way to add a little exploration into your love life. Always remember, laughing in bed can be a wonderful foreplay move.

What motivates you?

Sensual Food - Spice up your sex life

Did you know that some of the most familiar culinary spices are highly valued for their medicinal and aphrodisiac properties? For instance, Ginger, stimulates the circulation, and is a reputed aphrodisiac. Cinnamon excites sexual response in women. Other libido enhancers include aniseed, cloves, cardamom, cumin, coriander, fennel seeds, nutmeg, pepper, and vanilla. Some spices combine nicely with milk and ice cream for ideal cooling to the body and inflaming the passions. Try to use pure, whole or organic spices and grind them yourself.

Try these two refreshing and stimulating shakes.

Cinnamon Girl
Blend chocolate ice cream with milk, real chocolate sauce and cinnamon essence for a sensational milkshake.

Venus and Mars
This delicious potion combines coriander and strawberries (representing Venus) with ginger and black pepper (representing Mars) to forge the union of heaven's most passionate couple. Stand the ground 1 tsp coriander and 1 tsp ginger in a cup of warm milk for five minutes. Refrigerate for an hour. Blend a handfull of strawberries with the spicy milk, strawberry ice cream and a dash of black pepper.

How you share these recipes with your love is totally up to you and your imagination.

Shadows

Opening a bottle of Scotch, he sat in his window and watched the night fall
upon the city. London wore the cloak of darkness like a beautiful woman wore a
black dress. She called to him and he couldn’t resist her. He might not ever love a
woman, but he loved London. He walked over to his stereo and loaded his favorite
Underground music and began his ritual.

First he showered. Then he carefully picked out the right leathers to wear
for the night. He slid his boots on, then stood in the mirror for one appraising look
of confidence.

His black leather boots were polished. His black leather pants fit like a
second skin, soft and supple. He adjusted the collar on his red velvet oversized
shirt. His hair was tousled; some hairs stuck up, others hung in his eyes. He glared
at himself with hatred for a moment before drinking the last of the Scotch and
putting on his floor length black leather duster.

The dark figure shot out the door and onto the street. People moved out of
his way. Night was full of life in London. Some people lived for the night, some
were lost, some searching. Some with a destination in mind. Erick walked toward
the entrance of The Place.

He was greeted by the familiar elf named Tucker Tripp. Before entering
the passage to The Skunk’s Den he felt as if someone was watching him and turned.He only noticed a small group of kids waiting in line to get into the dance club. One of the young men stood with confidence, leaning against the building. His
black jeans fit tight over strong legs. He pulled his black leather jacket against the night chill. Blonde hair fell onto his shoulders and into his green eyes.
Erick went over to Tucker and pointed them out.

“The blonde kid with the black leather. Get him and his friends inside.” He
palmed some money into Tucker’s hand. “Give them their first drinks on me.”

“Yes, sir. So good of you.” Tucker corralled the kids inside.

The green-eyed boy watched Erick and nodded his head in his direction
before entering The Place.

Pleased, Erick continued to The Skunk’s Den, not noticing a dark shadow
watching him.

“Your playboy days are numbered my little friend,” the deep Italian voice
said. “It is time for you to pay for your game.”

Excerpt from Tormented Soul - book Two of the Soul Series.

Heck with the laundry! I have a new book coming out!

I'm not in the cleaning mood today, I'm simply too excited about my book's release next month. Tormented Soul is the second book in the Soul Series. I spent a year writing it and loved every minute of it. There are so many twists and turns in the story, and I love how the characters develope.

Erick McAlister is my mom's favorite character so I dedicated the book to her. She insisted I tell his story. The poor fellow, such a sexy, erotic, passionate, sensual bachelor... he deserves to find love, she'd say to me. Well, Mom... the characters don't always cooperate with the writer. But Erick definately has a great story to tell!

Check out the video trailer released over the weekend. http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=SpVdlSE6A2w The laundry is just going to have to wait! It's Hunky Monday!

Painted Soul - excerpt 2

BLURB:
A contemporary romance with a twist, Painted Soul is a story that takes the reader on a wonderful ride in an artist’s life, through the streets of London, and into the shadows of the underground.

Elizabeth McAlister was only eighteen when she met the art student, Puzzola in a London nightclub and gave him her heart. Ten years later, they meet again when a summer of intense passion and dark secrets begins.

As Elizabeth falls deeper in love with Puzzola, she tries to rescue him from tortured memories he refuses to discuss. Eventually, his double life and erotic past are exposed in a local newspaper just as he is involved in a life-threatening accident.



EXCERPT 2

“I used to get butterflies just thinking about Puzzola or the night we met,” the sherry was loosening her tongue. "Now I’m in the same country and I’m going crazy knowing he’s not far away. I feel tingles all over. Am I nuts? I don’t even really know him, we just danced and that was ten years ago!”

Erick tapped her on the nose. “You are not nuts. He may be closer than you think,” he laughed. “He’s still hot for you, I’m sure,” he moaned. “I wish I were in your shoes right now!”

“What?” Elizabeth laughed. “I thought you preferred women.”

“Ugh!” Erick put her in a headlock and rubbed the top of her head with his knuckles. “I do prefer women! Don’t ever think that again, young lady!” He released her with a shove, “I meant the idea of embarking on the greatest trip of your life. I remember an artist I slept with once, and she was incredible! She was even better than the dancer. Oh the dancer could move alright, but the artist was so creative,” he jeered. “You should have seen them together. Hot!”

“Now you’re grossing me out,” she threw a pillow at her brother’s sultry grin.

He caught the pillow but didn’t lose the grin, “Well since we are having a heart to heart conversation and sex is one of the topics, can I ask you something?”

“You ask me? This is a first. Shoot away, brother dear.”

“Who did you give your virginity to? Was it that guy in college?”

Elizabeth couldn’t believe she was having this discussion with her brother. The sherry must have been stronger that she thought.

“Yes, it was Rob.”

She recalled the sexy young artist from her classes. Rob Duvall, tall, dark and handsome. His passion for his art surpassed her passion for painting. There was sexual tension between them from the first day they met. It was only a short time before he convinced her to pose nude for a drawing. Only she ended up in his bed, and many other places, time and time again. He took her when he wanted, and left her feeling exhausted and empty every time he walked out the door. Their relationship turned into a game of how quick, how often and how few words.

“He looked a bit like Puzzola. But he was a total jerk, Elizabeth. I was pleased when you broke up with him.”

“Things just didn’t feel right, Erick. We were great together in the studio, the dark room and the gallery,” she laughed at her brother’s gaping expression. “But we couldn’t carry on a normal conversation. Do you suppose, in my subconscious, he was a substitute for Puzzola?”