Character Sketch - Puzzola/Andrew Somerby

A dark brooding man with a strong passion and desires hidden behind his Caribbean blue eyes. Tall, thin with long fingers along with his black hair makes him a presence to behold. He moves like a black panther in the black clothes he always wears. Seductive, sexual, yet very much in control of himself, yet prone to emotional and artistic outbursts.

His self portrait titled "Painted Soul" pretty much sums him up.


Andrew Somerby grew up on the estate next to Hampton House and is a close friend of the McAlister brothers. His parents were ashamed of the white stripe of hair on his head so he was forced to die it most of his life. Andrew didn’t want to be apart of the family banking business; instead, he always wanted to be an artist. After his grandparents’ death, he moved to Italy to attend art school and earned the nickname, Puzzola. Because of his father’s disapproval, Andrew’s funds were frozen so he had to look into other ways of making money. Unfortunately, he was preyed upon by a seductive manipulator.

When Andrew met Elizabeth McAlister at the nightclub, The Place, she didn’t recognize him so he introduced himself as “Puzzola”. Instant attraction passed between them, but they weren’t given the opportunity to experience their relationship farther. While Puzzola was in dark despair in Italy, memories of Elizabeth kept him sane.

As a man, he returned to England as a popular artist but with deep dark, hidden secrets. Emotionally scarred, he withdrew from society, love, and lived two separate lives… one as a banker, the other as the mysterious underground artist. How long would it be before he’d be pulled apart by his life? Would Elizabeth ever be able to turn him back into a man with a soul?

Purchase Painted Soul the debut novel of the Soul Series.

Thursday Thirteen - Where's my Desk?

Yep... I've been super busy writing these days. Everyone is amazed I can get any work done since my desk is actually not seen because of all the piles covering it. Hey! It's an organized mess! Really!

When I sat down to write today's thirteen, I went blank and just stared at my desk. Here's what I see:
1. the outline for Fortunate Soul
2. yummy pictures of Travis Fimmel who looks alot like my hero
3. a printed copy of what I've writen so far
4. my datebook
5. my son's report card
6. 4 copies of Penthouse Forum (sorry, I count those as one) for research
7. notebook with all my site addresses, passwords, and such stuff I always need but never can remember
8. chocolate candy wrapper (I'm sure there is some more around here)
9. empty tea cup (hey, I put the wine glass in the kitchen)
10 a stack of fliers for next weeks neighborhood garage sales
11.a notebook with scribbles of ideas for said book
12. matchbox car
13. a Spongebob Squarepants football

Can I go back to work now?

Let's see... where did I put that mouse?
Maybe it's under this picture of Travis...hmmmm...

The Proposition

Erick stood and looked out the window. The evening was closing in.
People leaving work, going home or stopping at favorite pubs filled the streets. He
hoped Penny was all right. This was the longest he had left her alone. The least
she could do was chew up his running shoes; he needed a new pair anyway.

The night before he had taken her on a long walk along Regent Street,
looking for a particular address. Once found, Erick noticed the crummy
conditions his courier lived in. The building, as broken down as it was, housed a
couple of small shops and several tiny apartments. An advertisement for an open
apartment was taped on the door. It was a two-bedroom space for four to six
people. Erick thought of his large flat and how many times it felt small to him and
Michael.

He felt more determined than ever to make an offer to Duncan Phillips.
When he arrived at fifteen past ten in the morning Sally gave him a sealed
envelope with his name on it. Inside was a note to stop by Erick’s office after he
finished work and an enticing amount of money. If the kid didn’t show he at least
had some spending cash, but Erick was confident he would come.

A knock on his door turned his attention from the window and his thoughts.
The young man clad in black leather, holding the white envelope stood in the
doorway. His hair pulled back in a ponytail, bangs fell in his green eyes. He stood
with confidence but his face held the look of bewilderment.

“Duncan Phillips?” Erick asked.

He nodded and shook Erick’s hand when it was offered.

“I’m Erick McAlister.”

“I know.” He sat in the chair Erick pointed to. “What do you want with
me?”

“I have proposition for you.”

“Wait a minute!” Duncan jumped up. “I don’t know what you think I am,
but I don’t do that sort of thing!”

“Calm down, sit!” Erick laughed. “You remind me of myself. Unbelievable. If we weren’t so close in age, I would have thought I could be your father.”

Erick stood close to Duncan and looked down into his face. His eyebrows
were dark, his forehead broad, his nose ended with a round tip, just like his own.
Poor kid was confused about being there; best tell him, he thought.

“I bought a bike and I want to hire you to teach me how to ride it. I’ll pay
you well for your time and your silence.”

Duncan slid deeper into the chair, thought for a moment then broke out in
a laugh. Erick was pleased that he didn’t intimidate him. The kid was bold.

“You want me to teach you how to ride a motorbike?” He laughed. “And
you’ll pay me?”

Erick sat on the edge of his desk in front of Duncan.

“Yes. It’s that simple.”

“Why me?”

“I’ve seen you ride. You’re good. I hate driving in London. I watch the couriers and they make it look so easy and fun!” Erick turned to Duncan. “I want to feel that freedom.”


Excerpt from Tormented Soul - book two of the Soul Series

The Soul Series - by Mary Quast

A new music video for my books in the Soul Series. Check it out!

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.

Have a Great Weekend

I'm deep in my sea of writing. Everywhere I go, everywhere I look, I seem to be picking up vibes and inspiration. My heart is full of emotion, my mind is full of story lines, and even my dreams are haunted by my characters. In all honesty... this is the fun part. It is the time when the hurricane of words and images slows down enough for me to tell the story.

So many times I wished my dad was alive to see my work. I know that he would be very proud of his "baby". My father was my hero and served his country during WWII as a marine in the South Pacific. I will think of him and honor his memory this holiday. A portrait of my dad graces my office; when I write his shitty grin is always smiling at me. (Yes... it's the same shitty grin a couple of my characters have.)

I hope everyone has a wonderful and safe weekend.


Write on!

Thursday Thirteen - Sensual Food

Thirteen sexual/sensual foods:
1. whipping cream
2. chocolate syrup
3. strawberries
4. bananas
3. cucumber?
4. avocado
5. grapes
6. red licorice - great for tying wrists
7. hot peppers - believe it or not
8. oysters
9. apple pie?
10. ice cream - if used properly
11. honey
12. spaghetti -think of the scene in Lady & the Tramp
13. more chocolate syrup

Wine or champagne...
but isn't that considered a beverage?

Lonely Soul - Released Today

Announcing the release of Book Three in the Soul Series!
Lonely Soul

The elder of the McAlister siblings was responsible and always putting his brother and sister before himself. Now that Erick and Elizabeth were enjoying their married lives, the time had come for Michael Casey McAlister to find his soulmate. He was a man with a deep sense of family and honor, yet at times he could be manipulative and very controlling, always doing what he thought was best for others. Yes, the time had come for him to look within himself and not follow the “logical path” of being married to the company and alone, very alone in life.

Featured on The Most Dangerous Bachelors list with his brother, his past was full of many beautiful women who only saw the glamour and the money in his life. With his good looks, wealth and sexual prowess, he attracted countless ladies, but when the one he thinks is Miss Right doesn’t like his dog, he shows her to the door. His heart then leads him to follow his love for outdoor activities and search for a woman who isn’t a high-society princess.

Lonely and discouraged, he dedicates himself to a New York City community garden project with his friends and busies himself with the comic strip he has created under the secret pen name of Mike Casey. Mike meets Lauren “Wren” Avery with the help of their dogs in the park while he’s working on a cartoon. He sees her as an opportunity to improve himself and not follow his father’s path of unhappiness.
Their simple walks in the park and playful banter quickly develop into a deeper relationship. Mike finds the little things in life make him happy and enjoys being with Wren. He certainly didn’t expect to fall in love with the graphic artist.
Wren falls in love with him as, Mike the cartoonist, not knowing he is the co-owner of McAlister Enterprises, the same company she works for. He knows he’s wrong in not telling her the truth about who he is.

His world begins to fall apart when Wren receives a notice that she’s being transferred to the London office, a transfer he personally proclaimed before he met her, and during a time when he believed he was looking at the best interests of his employees. As Wren’s anger towards “the McAlister” increases, Mike’s fear of telling her the truth ends up causing problems.

One night over dinner, she finds out who he really is…from his ex-girlfriend. His world comes to a crashing halt. He realizes that while building the company and interfering in other people’s lives he may have lost control of his own life and what truly matters. He escapes to the wilderness of his log cabin in northern New York for some solitude.

Eventually, he’s joined by his friends who help him devise a plan to get Wren back into his life. What he first saw as an opportunity to improve himself, had turned out to be the one thing that made him whole - the love of a woman. He would do whatever it took to win her back.



************************************************************************************

Excerpt from Lonely Soul:
Michael was alone in the men’s room and took his time washing. He knew it was a nasty thing he had done to Colleen, but he wouldn’t have done it if he didn’t think she couldn’t handle it. Besides she had been whoring around in more ways than one; she deserved it. Now that his anger and frustration were gone, loneliness was seeping in.

He wondered if he could ever find the right woman to spend the rest of his life with. Judging by his record with women, he wasn’t sure. They were beautiful and sexy but always digging into his pockets or into his pants to state a claim of being bedded by him. Deep inside a hatred of who he was boiled; a partner in one of the fastest growing companies, wealthy, healthy, and possessing a reputation as a sensual lover.

If he did find the woman of his dreams how would he know she wouldn’t be after what he represented? How could he trust one more beautiful creature who would surely get under his skin? How could he find out her intentions before he made a further, more disastrous mistake?

Being selected as one of the ‘World’s Most Dangerous Bachelors’ hadn’t hurt his chances; he just needed to improve his selecting methods. Unfortunately most women who chased after him were only physically appealing and did nothing for the rest of him. Perhaps he should look in a different direction. Maybe there was a nature-girl in the little town by his cabin. But then again, his choice of a life partner would have to be able to handle the big city and all the unwanted attention of the press.

Purchase Lonely Soul Today!

Let's Paint A Picture

“Let’s make a fantasy real,” she taunted as she kicked a large roll of canvas into unraveling across the studio floor. Elizabeth took Puzzola by the hand and led him to the center. His eyes glimmered with recognition of her plan.

“I hope you’re planning to use acrylic paint on this canvas,” his eyes never leaving her body while his smile only grew larger.

“Certainly,” Elizabeth presented him with a basket full of brightly colored tubes of acrylic paint.

Puzzola laughed when she opened a tube of paint and squirted a long snake-like color onto his chest. She smeared it across to his shoulders and down his belly without taking her eyes off his face. With an incredible sense of freedom, Puzzola removed the top from a tube of crimson and slowly spread the pigment over her breasts. The cool touch of the paint felt good against her warm skin. Elizabeth was living a dream she secretly coveted and she felt herself turning into putty at the mercy of Puzzola’s hands as he spread more paint on her.

Pulling him down to the canvas, she kissed him with the promise of more...

Excerpt from Painted Soul - Book One of the Soul Series.

The Next Kiss - 10 Years Later

Elizabeth pressed against him, tilted her head back with closed eyes as a small moan escaped from her lips. Her body begged to be touched, to feel the burn. She needed him to wipe away those lost years without him. He cupped her face with his fiery hands, forcing her eyes to open. His eyes burned into her then they rolled back when she ran her hands across his torso and along his sides, feeling the sculpted muscles beneath the silk fabric of his shirt. She could hear his struggled breathing and feel his rapid heartbeat. Pleased with her affect on him, she continued her movements.

Her eyes opened as he caressed her throat with his fingers and brought his hand down her chest across her breast. Elizabeth thought her heart would leap out of her chest when his hand stroked her body as if inspecting, then finally resting on the small of her back. His other hand slid behind her head. A soft purr escaped from her as he tangled his fingers in her hair. Elizabeth closed her eyes, breathing hard, tipped her head back desirous for a kiss.

Pulling her close Puzzola nuzzled her check, “You have haunted my dreams. I can not believe I am finally holding my specter. I have wanted you so long.”

His mouth came down on hers in desperate need. Heat churned inside her as she answered back with the same desperation. Flames of passion and desire spread to inferno.

“Dream lover,” she touched his check and he turned his face to place a kiss in her palm, “take me where I want to be.”

Excerpt taken from Painted Soul - Book One of the Soul Series.

First Kiss

His lips caressed hers. Elizabeth melted. If he hadn’t been holding her so tightly, she probably would have fallen into a heap on the floor. She slid her arm over his shoulder to tangle her fingers in his long, soft black hair. Puzzola groaned as she ran her other hand over his painted cheek and her fingers through his blonde stripe. She inhaled rapidly as he pulled her upward to place feather kisses on her neck and collarbone. It felt so good, so right pressed against him. His lips came down hard on hers, parting her lips for a deep, intense kiss that reached into the depths of her soul.

“There is so much I want,” his voice was raspy. “I want to be with you. I want to take you where I know you want to be.”

“I wish I didn’t have to leave in the morning,” Elizabeth could hardly breathe. She was ready to give herself, and would have bargained with the devil himself for more time tonight in London. If he asked her to spend the night with him, she would.

“There is not enough time to kiss you. Not enough time to touch you. You are in my soul, Elizabeth McAlister. Remember my promise, we will meet again,” he whispered the pledge to her as he rubbed her temple with his thumb.

He ran his long fingers across her cheek to the back of her head and kissed her with greater intensity than before. She felt him claiming her, possessing her. With their bodies flattened against each other, she felt them fusing together. She could feel his heart beating as fast as hers was pounding loud in her ears.

As he pulled away, Elizabeth asked, “What’s your real name?”

“Puzzola,” he responded as he bowed his head and a lock of blonde hair fell across his dark eyebrows and ocean eyes. With two fingers, he gave her a jaunty salute and disappeared into the crowd.


Excerpt from the Prologue of Painted Soul - Book One of the Soul Series.

Fun at the Authors Event

The authors at the Spring Authors Event spent more time talking to each other than to readers. Traffic was a bit slow...perhaps due to the rainy day or the fact we were there the day before Mother's Day. Altogether we had fun and sold a few books.

I was happy to see my good friend, Cheryl Martin, an amazing photographer and poet. I picked up her latest book and we promised to do another event together this summer.

Writers have to leave their solitude occasionally; I'll post dates of events at a later time.

Spring Author Event in Michigan

I will be at the Barnes & Noble in Saginaw, MI for the Spring Author’s Event. Several authors from Michigan will be signing books on Saturday, May 9. 1:00 – 3:00pm. I will have the Soul Series books with me, including “Lonely Soul” which will be available for purchase prior to its May 19th release.

Barnes & Noble Booksellers
3311 Tittabawassee Rd
Saginaw, MI 48604

This is a great opportunity to chat with a variety of authors over some great coffee in a relaxed enviroment. Tons of fun and inspiring to writers!

The Watcher

Watching and waiting.
I remain silent, without response.
Listening to the universe.

Watching and waiting.
Mystical and sensual.
A moment cannot be defined.

Watching and waiting.
A cosmic wave.
An energy released.

Watching and waiting.
A shiver runs through my whole body.
I'm profoundly moved.

Watching waiting.
Spontaneous combustion.
A master of body and mind emerges.

Watching and waiting.
A vision of pleasure.
Harmony of ecstacy and spirituality.

Watching and waiting.
The senses of the sacred are aroused.
Come to me.

Watching and waiting.
Beyond the physical plane.
I will protect you.

Watching and waiting.

Tasty Tuesday - Oatmeal?

Many of you know I'm a scent-ual person. I love my senses! So let me take you on a journey and experience the sense of smell.

First, make a nice hot bowl of oatmeal. Not the fancy flavored kind, but the good old fashioned kind.

Now close your eyes. Well... you might have to keep them open to read this.

Breath in.

First is the heart of the smell. By breathing in your oatmeal, you smell the odor of the oats. But that is not the heart of the odor. Close your eyes. Breathe in. Relax. Breathe in the world of fire, ashes, clothes, home, nature, sky, the universe and heaven. You will feel your consciousness penetrate to the heart of the smell. This is real. It is delicious.

Next take a bit of the oatmeal. Savor it. Allow your sense of taste penetrate to the heart of taste. This contains all the flavors of the earth. This is the unique savor.

Even though the oat flakes have lost their form in the cooking process, they have taken on a "heart form" which is something more that what one experiences in a moment.

Do you remember when you mother told you to slow down and not eat so fast? Have you noticed how many diets tell you to eat slowly? Perhaps if you head these words, you will experience the true meaning of taste and enjoyment of food. Savor those sips and bites. Let the flavor travel past your lips, across your tongue, and feel it enter your body.

A simple meal of basic food can be a sensual or should I say, scent-ual" experience. Enjoy!

Excerpt from Presbyterian 101

Mother

Yes, it is one thing all Presbyterian share… we all have a Mother. In our faith we don’t put Mothers on a pedestal or worship them, but we do honor them. We honor those in the bible and those in our lives. Not only do we honor the women who gave birth to us, but we also the women who made a positive difference in our lives.

If you can, take a moment to think about your own mother. Do you remember the warm hugs, the gentle words, the guiding hand, the care she gave you? How many times as she told you the story of your birth, or adoption, with a sparkle in her eye? The bible speaks of birth as a miracle, today we still refer to it as such; and we see a miracle each time we gaze into the face of a child.

Take another moment to think of a woman who helped you somewhere along the way. Was it a teacher at school, or perhaps your Sunday school teacher? A neighbor or a friend’s parent, or maybe even a member or your church family.

If you are a child, write a story or draw a picture for that person and give it to her. Bake some cookies and do something nice for her. Tell her you love her.

If you are an adult, interview that special lady and ask questions about where she was born, where she grew up, what her childhood was like, what her faith was like what jobs she had, what interests she had – make a biography. Bake her cookies and do something nice for her. Tell her you love her.

Mother
Blessings of: Psalm 113:9; Isaiah 40:11
Comfort of: Isaiah 66:12-13
Duties of: Titus 2:4; Proverbs 31: 26-27,30
Gift of God: Psalm 113:9
Praised by her family: Proverbs 31:28
To be honored and cared for: Genesis 32:11; Proverbs 23:22; John 19:27; Ephesians 6:2

A Poem

My 28 year old nephew was killed in a car accident this week in Florida. He's featured in the above photo with his parents and sister. He left behind a 2 yr old son.

I won't be able to attend the funeral, I'm stuck in Michigan, so I wrote this poem for him. I hope my family likes it.

Joshua
The Hebrew form of the Greek name Jesus.
The name by which Jesus was known by His friends.
Meaning God is Salvation.

Joshua
A son, a father,
A nephew, a cousin,
A friend, a leader.

Joshua
Our Josh
A toe-head boy
With shining blue eyes
Hugs for all
And a never ending smile.

Joshua
Our Josh
A teenager with dreams
The love of baseball
Flirtatious banter
And a never ending smile.

Joshua
Our Josh.
A generous man
Willing to lend a helping hand
A kind soul
And a never ending smile.

Joshua
Our Josh.
Chosen by the Lord,
A guardian angel to his son
Leader of souls on the baseball team in the sky,
And a never ending smile.

Joshua
A leader, a friend
A cousin, a nephew
A father, a son.

And he is still smiling.

Indie Bookstores Press On Despite Economy

A look at what independent bookstores in Michigan are doing to keep sales up in a tough economy.

by Jennifer Guerra

Independent bookstore fans who live in the Ann Arbor area have probably heard that Shaman Drum Bookstore might close. Well, there's good news from bookstore owner, Karl Pohrt:

"I'm going to move ahead and continue to do this store."

The store will look a little bit different - the top floor for university text books is gone. Instead, there's one main floor for trade paperbacks and hard covers, and it could become a non-profit. Down the street Borders isn't doing so well. The Ann Arbor-based bookstore posted a 57% drop in 4th quarter earnings, and it plans to cut expenses by $120 million this year. So Michigan Radio's Jennifer Guerra went out to find how others Michigan bookstores are doing.

The tiny town of Mason, Michigan is located between Jackson and Lansing. There's an independent bookstore there called Bestsellers Bookstore and Coffee. When I visited on a Tuesday morning, it was surprisingly busy for a Tuesday morning: there's Bill the local minister, Rollin Dart whose family owns the local bank, and a group of ladies in the corner doing Bible study.

At the center of it all is Jamie Robinson. She's the owner. She opened the independent bookstore 12 years ago, back then she only sold books. About four years ago she bought a bigger building and added an espresso bar and some breakfast snacks, which she says has done wonders for business:

"Oh yeah, before maybe you'd have 40 people a day, now we're probably running 150 people a day through the doors, yeah."

She says about every other person that comes in for coffee buys a book. But book sales are still pretty flat. Plus, she's competing against Google books, Amazon.com and to a lesser extent Kindle and other digital books. So you'd think, given the recession, she'd be nervous about the future of indie bookstores. But you'd be wrong.

"No, I'm really not. It's a great niche. Most generally if people want to stop local, they still are very conscientious that we have a brick and mortar building. That when school groups come and say can I sell Girl Scout cookies here...Amazon has never hosted an author reading, Amazon has never had a book sale for a local community charity. People that realize the value of independents, they'll wait a couple days for a book."

Turns out Robinson's experience isn't the exception.

Jim Dana says "for the most part they're doing alright."

Dana is executive director of the Great Lakes Independent Booksellers Association. It's a kind of umbrella organization for indie book stores in Michigan, Ohio, Illinois and Indiana. He says it's hard for any business to do well in a recession.

"Our stores actually got through the holidays better than they thought, I think. So they came out of the holidays with a sense of confidence that they could get through this is. For the most part, there are a few exceptions."

As far as new independent bookstores go, last year was pretty much a wash for Michigan: 7 stores opened, and 7 stores closed.

In the early 90s, there were around 4,500 independent bookstores nationwide that were members of the American Booksellers Association. Now there are about 1,800.

The ones that seem to make it have turned their bookstores into community centers. They hold open mic nights, sell coffee or wine, and offer writing classes.

Lara Zielin is a Michigan author. She has a new book coming out for young adults coming out in August. It's called "Doughnut Days." She's rooting for the 1,800 indie bookstores to survive. She says, like a lot of first time authors, she's going to rely pretty heavily on indie bookstores to get the word out about her book, because getting her foot in the door at a big bookstore chain is pretty hard.

"There's usually 1 buyer at the top for the big bookstores, and so if the buyer at one of those big bookstores doesn't like your book, they won't carry a lot of copies. But with indie bookstores, for example, someone who might just work the cash register might get a hold of a galley that comes in. They'll read it, love it, and then tell the owner that they love it. And it's much more likely for the bookstore to carry it. So it's not just one person who is the decider. There's lots of deciders.

And it seems like the deciders in Michigan's independent bookstore world are determined to stick around.



Special thanks to Michigan Public Radio for featuring this outstanding and positive article!!!!!!

Tormented Soul Excerpt

Blurb -
Erick McAlister is known as London’s Most Dangerous Bachelor; he enjoys scotch,women, and spending time in the London underground club, The Skunk’s Den.He’s never had a real relationship; women only want him for one thing- he desires more.

When the one he vowed he would never toy with, Lynn Westmore, gives him an unexpected proposition, his life takes an enjoyable turn. Just as he is beginning to find happiness, tabloids headline him, a woman from his past announces she’s expecting his child, someone is trying to kill him, and he finds himself questioning his relationship with the young courier he’s hired to teach him to ride his new motorcycle. Even though his life is in torment, he begins to believe in love, something he never thought he’d feel.

Unfortunately, Lynn doesn’t think Erick could ever be faithful to one woman, let alone be in love with her, so when she finds herself in love with him she runs. Erick falls into a spiral of depression, and it takes his brother and closest friends to bring him to his senses.

When he finds out a magazine has rated him as the World’s Most Dangerous Bachelor, he agrees to do the interview only if Lynn is the photographer and he uses the opportunity to let Lynn know
how he feels; he offers his heart to her one more time...



Excerpt #2:

Erick stretched out his legs as Penny rushed up the stairs. He found himself becoming very attached to his four-legged friend: it was easy to care for her and even worry about her. After he hired a dog walker to take her out around lunchtime for a stroll, he had a peace of mind.

The phone rang and he raced up the steps.

“McAlister,” he answered.

“A large crate arrived for you today,” Andrew’s voice came through the line. “Would you care to elaborate what is going on?”

“Do you know what it is?” Erick puffed.

“Bloody hell, I do! Are you nuts?”

“Only as much as you are.”

“Fair enough.”

“Go ahead and open it if you want.”

“What? And spoil your fun! Never! When are you coming to Sussex?”

“I’ll leave tomorrow. Can you send your driver to get me?”

“No problem. How do you intend to get this beast back to London?”

“I’ve hired a courier to teach me to ride. I’ll bring him with me.”

“A courier! Those creatures are lunatics who are more intended for motor sports rather than driving on the streets of London!”

“Oh, I think you’ll like Duncan. He reminds me of someone. You’ll see what I mean.”

“Argh!” Andrew groaned.

“You enjoy riding. You own a motorcycle.”

“I own a Harley. A piece of art. This is an engine with a saddle!” He paused. “You’re going to love it, mate.”

“Thanks.” Erick smiled. “We will see you tomorrow night.”

Erick relaxed and put his feet up in the Rolls Royce. Penny was curled next to him, dreaming what dogs do. He looked out the back window and saw Duncan following on his motorcycle. He had passed a note to the courier when he arrived in the morning. Life had become busy for Erick between business and the occasional dinner with Peter and Abby; he only saw Duncan at work and occasionally was joined by him on an evening jog with Penny.

They traveled past the gatehouse and up to the entrance of Hampton House. Penny jumped out with excitement when Andrew, Elizabeth and Lady greeted them. Duncan turned off his engine, took off his helmet and looked around as he slowly dismounted his bike. Erick took his sister and Andrew over to meet him.

“Duncan,” Erick called to him. “I’d like you to meet my sister, Elizabeth and her husband Andrew.”

Elizabeth drew her breath when Duncan looked at her.

“Pleased to meet you, Mrs. Somerby.” Duncan broke the spell and held out a hand to Andrew. “Mr. Somerby.”

“Please, call us by our first names,” Andrew said.

“You are really him.” Duncan couldn’t take his eyes off Andrew’s stripe. “You’re Puzzola!”

“Yes.” Andrew raised an eyebrow.

“Oh, wow!” Duncan stomped his booted foot and spun around with excitement. “I love your work. I could never afford your work, so I framed your publicity posters. Oh, man! I cannot believe I’m standing here with you. Wait until I tell my friends!”

Andrew and Erick looked at each other and laughed.

“I think I like this kid.” Andrew teased. “Say, do you want to take a look at your box or eat first?”

“You have to ask?” Erick took off with long strides to the garage.

Andrew had a crowbar with a bow tied on it waiting for Erick. Erick laughed, grabbed it and began to open the crate. Andrew stood behind Elizabeth with his arms wrapped around her watching Erick and his younger twin tear at the wood. The sides fell down to expose the sleek, black and chrome machine.

“Yes!” Erick caressed it as if it were a naked woman. “Beautiful, and all mine. What do you think, Andrew?”

“She’s a beauty all right.” He looked it all over with scrutiny. “She’s ready to go. I had my man from the local shop come over and service it. Then we nailed it back up. Why don’t you start the engine?”

Erick threw his leg over and sat in the saddle, then turned the key. He revved the engine and looked at everyone. Elizabeth was laughing at him, Andrew nodded his approval, and Duncan walked around checking out the features on the bike.
“
Give it a go!” yelled Duncan.

Free Reads

Hi everyone. My publisher just released a Free First Chapter Chapbook as a promotional tool. So if anyone would like to read the first chapters of my books for free, simply send an email to me:

maryquast@yahoo.com

and enter the word, Chapbook, on the subject line, and I’ll send the pdf file which includes the first chapters from
Painted Soul, Tormented Soul and the soon to be released Lonely Soul.

I'm really excited about my books and would love to share a sampling with you.

- Mary

Irish Cream Brownies

4 oz. semisweet baking chocolate, coarsely chopped
1/2 c. butter
1/2 c. sugar
2 eggs
1/4 c. Irish Cream
1 c. all purpose flour
1/2 tsp. baking powder
1/4 tsp. salt
Irish Cream Frosting (recipe follows)

Oven 350F

Preheat oven to 350F. Grease 8 inch square baking pan. Melt chocolate and butter in medium heavy saucepan over low heat, stirring constantly. Remove from heat. Stir in sugar. Beat in eggs, one at a time, with wire whisk. Whisk in Irish Cream. Combine flour, baking powder and salt in small bowl; stir into chocolate mixture until just blended. Spread batter evenly in prepared pan.

Bake 22 to 25 minutes or until center is set. Remove pan to wire rack; cool completely. Prepare Irish Cream Frosting; spread over cooled brownies. Chill at least 1 hour or until frosting is set. Cut into 2-inch squares.

Yield: 16 brownies

Irish Cream Frosting:

1/4 c. (2 oz.) cream cheese, softened
2 tbsp. butter or margarine, softened
2 tbsp. Irish Cream
1-1/2 c. powdered sugar

Beat cream cheese and butter in small bowl with electric mixer at medium speed until smooth. Beat in Irish Cream. Gradually beat in powdered sugar until smooth.

* For fun, I tried a variation. I used a box of Betty Crocker Brownie Mix and substituted the 1/4 cup of water with a 1.4 cup of Irish Cream. Baked the brownies according to the directions on the box. Once cooled, I cut the brownies into squares, placed on a plate, topped with ice cream and drizzled with Hershey's Chocolate Syrup.

Happy St. Paddy's Day

Many sites will tell you that the little trefoil known as the shamrock was once known as "seamróg", pronounced "Seamroy", meaning "little clover". They also mention the fact that it is a very common clover that grows heartily in Ireland.

Many agree that the ancient Druids honored it as a sacred plant. The Druids believed the shamrock had the power to avert evil spirits. Some people still believe the shamrock has mystical, even prophetic, powers. It is said that the leaves of shamrocks turn upright whenever a storm is coming.

According to Lady Wilde, the shamrock "enlightens the brain and makes one see and know the truth".

The ancient Irish Celts also revered the shamrock because it has three leaves, and they considered "3" to be a sacred number. The ancient Celtic Druids believed many numbers held mystical powers.

The three leaves shaped like hearts were associated with the Triple Goddess of Celtic mythology, otherwise known as the "Three Morgans". The Triple Goddess represented the Triple Mothers, the hearts of the ancient Celtic tribes.

This Celtic tradition of honoring "3's" continued in Ireland for millennia.


Buy this Print @ AllPosters.com
Great things do come in threes, after all...


past, present, and future


land, sea, and sky


love, valor, and wit


faith, hope and charity

Three was also sacred to devotees of the goddess, Brighid, signifying totality. And the Irish bards continued the significance of "3's" by using triple repetition in their storytelling rhythms.

Actually, many spiritual belief systems, ancient and contemporary, find the number "3" to have mystical properties. The shamrock was considered a sacred plant to ancient Iranians, for example. They knew it as "shamrakh" and honored it as a symbol of the Sacred 3's.

Shoes, shoes, and more shoes!

"He slipped the high heeled sandal off her beautiful foot. Carefully holding it in one hand, he poured his scotch over her toes with the other. She squirmed with delight as he sucked the golden liquid off each digit."

Sigh. In my reality, shoes are small, dirty, smelly, and scattered all over the floor. On cleaning day, I took inspiration from the Asians. Asian cultures have removed their shoes before entering a home for thousands of years. Every family should have such a practice. Not only does it cut down on the amount of dirt in the house - which translates into sweeping and vacuuming,but it also helps prolong the life of your carpets and rugs. Leaving your shoes at the door will keep daily toxins and pesticides that linger on the soles of shoes from being left all over the home.

I have a cute but heavy braided rug by the front door for visitors and family members to leave their shoes. A rubber boot mat comes in handy during the winter months. I've even seen some people use a shoe tree by their door to collect and air out shoes. Personally, I love a little basket with a variety of slippers placed near the door. Guests are invited to wear the cozy footwear while their shoes remain in their place.

"He tugged the knit slipper off her slender foot. She soon felt the coolness of the peppermint cream as he gently massaged the tender spot under her heal. His fingers with all their exquisite talent sent her along waves of minty bliss." -ahhhh....
Which do you prefer... toe sucking or a full foot massage?

Tormented Soul - Excerpt 1

EXCERPT 1

“British Airways’ Flight 112 to New York will be boarding through gate sixty-five momentarily.”

Lynn quietly reached down and picked up her flight bag. She looked at the boarding pass in her hand. Funny that she didn’t feel like she was going home, but more like she was leaving home. This last trip had been so different from all the others and had taken an emotional toll on her. Perhaps an uneventful stay at her father’s would be just what she needed before returning to finish her photo shoot.

Erick McAlister reached out and adjusted the strap on her shoulder. He glanced toward the gate Lynn would be going through and noticed a young couple saying their good-byes. They spoke softly in between tender kisses, holding each other in a tight embrace. His black heart thudded in his chest. He wondered if that would ever be him; if he was capable of loving, or being loved.

His best friend, Andrew, had been a tormented soul like himself, and against odds found love and happiness with his sister, Elizabeth. Erick thought back to a time when he tasted the sweetness of comfort and contentment. Andrew had been determined to pay Elizabeth and Lynn a surprise visit at Hampton House and persuaded him and his brother Michael to join him.

Through Erick’s life, Lynn Westmore was the only woman to affect him like she did, and he didn’t like it. The night he was changed, he drank himself to oblivion to avoid his uneasy feelings. Unknown to him, his sister had put her best friend in his room during her stay. After retiring in a drunken state to his old bed, he woke in the morning with Lynn in his arms.

She had become a first of sorts. The first woman to sleep with him in his bed at Hampton House, the first to wake with him in the morning, and the first woman to share a bed and not be ravished. As tempting his lustful desires were that morning, he enjoyed the quiet conversation and her presence more than any sexual conquest. With Lynn he found a small piece of serenity he’d only dreamed of.

“Well, it’s almost time,” Lynn’s voice brought him back to the present. “I’ve been gone from the States so long; I hope I haven’t forgotten where I live.”

“Well if you can’t find it, Erick said, “you know you are always welcome at Hampton House. When did you say you will be back?”

“Some time in the spring; depends on the weather. I have a couple of locations I need to go back to. These books on English gardens are scheduled to go to press during the summer, so I have a time factor to work with.” She tilted her auburn head, her brown eyes sparkled, her smile teased. “Are you going to miss me?”

“Yes. I will.”

Lynn put her arms around his waist to give him a hug before she boarded. She felt his arms tighten around her and wondered what it would be like to be loved by him. She felt she could never compete with the beautiful women he surrounded himself with; he was just out of her league. She knew he was a man with worldly knowledge of women, a man capable of incredible passion; a man with such sexual prowess and confidence he would never find satisfaction in someone with her lack of experience.

Erick wanted the moment to last forever. He felt faint stirrings in his black heart. He had broken hearts and strained some marriages. Over the years his reputation grew as a lover, a prince of seduction and passion. To him, women couldn’t be trusted and were nothing but a sport. But he refused to get involved with Lynn because he couldn’t bear to hurt her. Lynn was too good of a person to be played with. He trusted her and her friendship.

He ran his hand up her back, along her neck and cupped her face. He looked deep into her eyes.

“Sweet Lynn,” his voice was a husky whisper. “These last few months have probably been the best as well as my worst. You have heard my secrets and you know of the monster that lives inside me, yet you’ve been a good friend to me. I want you to know I trust you as I would trust my own sister. Thank you.”

He caressed her cheek with his thumb. Her lips were so inviting. He remembered the shock he had felt when he kissed her on New Years Eve. Only a few days had passed and he still felt their heat. He dipped his head and brushed his lips across hers.
“Good bye, Lynn.” He pulled away from her. “Have a good flight.”

It took everything Lynn had to remain on her feet. On the inside, she shook head to toe, from his touch and his kiss. Looking into his green eyes, she saw sadness. She smiled as she bade him farewell, then turned toward her boarding gate.

What a lousy way to start the year, he thought. All alone. His best friend had married his sister over the holidays and they were honeymooning in the American Southwest. Lynn was gone. His father and brother would be leaving in a few days. Perhaps he should visit the Underground Clubs as soon as he returned to London and find someone to warm the cold winter nights. For some reason, the thought didn’t sound very appealing at the moment, but would surely change by the time he dressed in his favorite leathers and disappeared into the London night.

Purchase Tormented Soul now.

Come to a party!!!!

My publisher, Vanilla Heart Publishing is really getting into Love this year. On Valentine's Day, they are hosting their own first Annual Love Festival of Books in the forum.

Drop by between 12:01 am and 11:59 pm February 14, 2009, start a discussion (or add to one), introduce yourself, leave a favorite recipe, chat about favorite characters - just about anything, really - and win an entry to the 1st Annual VHP Love Festival of Books Gift Basket drawing!

I'll be there too. My second book in the Soul Series, Tormented Soul, is being released that day with many other VHP titles!

Erick McAlister is known as London's Most Dangerous Bachelor; he enjoys scotch, women, and spending time in the London underground club, The Skunk's Den. He s never had a real relationship; women only want him for one thing- he desires more. When the one he vowed he would never toy with, Lynn Westmore, gives him an unexpected proposition, his life takes an enjoyable turn. Just as he is beginning to find happiness, tabloids headline him, a woman from his past announces she s expecting his child, someone is trying to kill him, and he finds himself questioning his relationship with the young courier he s hired to teach him to ride his new motorcycle. Even though his life is in torment, he begins to believe in love, something he never thought he d feel. Unfortunately, Lynn doesn't think Erick could ever be faithful to one woman, let alone be in love with her, so when she finds herself in love with him she runs. Erick falls into a spiral of depression, and it takes his brother and closest friends to bring him to his senses. When he finds out a magazine has rated him as the World's Most Dangerous Bachelor, he agrees to do the interview only if Lynn is the photographer and he uses the opportunity to let Lynn know how he feels; he offers his heart to her one more time...


To purchase books of the Soul Series visit Amazon.com for special prices today

Hot Soup for the Soul... and the body!

On cleaning day, this writer doesn't like to cook. I'm simply too whipped out to slave in the kitchen so I usually find a nice recipe for my crock pot. This not only adds nourishment to the body but also adds a wonderful calming scent into the air. In today's busy world that is full of the "take a pill" mentality, it's nice to know that we can still find peace and comfort in a simple pleasure our ancestors also enjoyed... soup.

Today, I woke up ill at 3am. When it came time to put the boys on the bus, I knew I wouldn't get much cleaning done, perhaps just the laundry, so I immediately reached for the crock pot and some beef soup bones. Through my weary eyes, I couldn't find a recipe that struck me. I put away my cookbooks and thought of how Grandma would put it together.

A couple large soup bones with water. I added a can of beef broth and a can of fire roasted tomatoes. Chopped up an onion. Added basil, oregano, sage, parsley, garlic, a bay leaf and six peppercorns... wait, I think I added seven. Then I dropped in a shot of whiskey; figured that would help my soar throat. The pot is set on low. I'll add some freshly cut veggies later in the day. I might even throw in some barley too.

On cold winter days the boys like a cup of soup for a snack when they get home from school. I look forward to sipping the broth throughout the day as I "taste test". It will rejuvenate my soul and aid my body in healing. Thanks Gram!

Perhaps I'll cut up some oranges as well... hmmm...

Humpday Help - Hugs

Writing is a solitary profession. It's nice to go to work in pajamas on a bad hair day, but it still gets lonely. However, the Internet now keeps us connected and a writers' community is alive and thriving to dole out ample amounts of advice, support, laughter, and hugs. Yes, even hugs can travel through this network. Even though we don't feel arms wrapped around our bodies, our hearts are touched and soothed.

Hug therapy is an antidote to stress and loneliness.

Studies have shown babies who are touched, loved and held will thrive. While babies who are not hugged or held enough do not grow as quickly. Adults need that loving touch just as much as babies do and unfortunately that is often forgotten.

Look at your own family and close friends. Make sure they get a fair share of your hugs. Children are wonderful huggers and can even teach a person who isn't "touchy feely" into a hugger. Volunteer to help sick children and newborns in hospitals that could use hugs.

When you are online and your friend is in obvious need to "let it out" reach out with a *HUG* There is even cute little icons that will give the hug for you. Trust me, when that little icon or the words pop up on the screen... the hug is felt in the heart.

Remember as a kid signing letters with X's and O'x. Kisses and hugs.

So....try to give at least one hug a day. Cuddle a child, hug a loved one, hug a friend, send a hug over the Internet... just do it.

Hugs,
Mary

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!

Humpday Help - Think About the Moment

It's a busy week but take a moment to refresh your spirit. Here's a little exercise that will help you slow down, even if it's only for a moment.

Grab a cup of coffee or your favorite beverage and sit down. If you are a writer, I challenge you to write this exercise down. But I want you to sit still, even for five minutes and look around you. Now think about the moment.


Silence is golden, or at least something to be cherished. Even though I have some smooth jazz flowing into my ears, the lack of the playful noise of my three boys is music to me. I feel my mind sigh in relaxation.

The morning went unusually smooth. No arguments or temper tantrums. Trevor and Devin go up easily, dressed and ate. Devin completed his homework willingly. Both boys boarded the bus on time.

Nathan is still sleeping and even the dog is napping. The guinea pig shuffles quietly in his cage as if he doesn't want to interrupt the moment. Perhaps he is lost in his own thoughts. I am in my own little piece of heaven.

This is my moment.

I’m sitting at the dining room table that is covered with an antique cloth purchased for $1 at a garage sale. A cup of polluted coffee cools next to a carob chip muffin resting on a plate. Fading flowers lay in a tarnished urn on the center of the creamy cloth.

The table is uncluttered like my mind at the moment. Both are a rarity. Everything is smooth, creamy, peaceful. I know the moment is fleeting but it feels so good.

Cleaning Day - The Simmer Pot

There is a gypsy in my books who is wise and has many wonderful tips to share. When I'm cleaning my house I use a Simmer Pot simmilar to one she uses.

A Simmer Pot is any large pot of water placed on the stove to simmer for many hours. Of course one can make a pot of soup, which will fill the home with awonderous, welcoming aroma that will also fill a body with nurishment.

Here are many Simmer Pot recipes I like to use when I'm cleaning.
*add orange slices, whole cloves, and a few sticks of cinamon
*lemon slices, slices of fresh ginger
*lemon slices, sage leaves
*dried lavendar, sage leaves
*lemongrass, dried lavendar, sage leaves
*a handfull of pine needles, couple of cinamon sticks
*a sprig of fresh rosemary, a few drops of peppermint

Now, if you make a pot of soup that simmers all day... make sure you share it!

Wednesday - Humpday Help, Little Indulgence

Everybody gets grey sometimes, and we all need a little indulgence.

Here in Michigan, the temp outside is -4, my furnace isn't working so the heat in the house isn't over 65. My fingers are too cold to type. Hubby is in Florida complaining about how cold the air conditioning is and having to go to Hooters again for dinner. The kids don't have Cabin Fever yet... but I think I do. Everything is grey today. Blahhhhh...

Here is my thought on a little cure for the day.

Buy a bouquet of fresh flowers. They are easy to find at the grocery store these days. Split them up so you can have at least one flower in each room of the house. You can use any kind of container; a small vase, a cute little glass, a teacup, or my favorite - an old salt shaker.

Fresh flowers can also add a touch of romance to any room.
Enjoy the simplicity of fresh flowers! A little bit of life and color can brighten any home on a grey day as well as lift our spirits.

Monday - Cleaning Day, Goin' Green

So what does cleaning have to do with romance?

Nothing. But on Mondays, I take a break from writing my latest and greatest romance novel and return to the "normal" world of being a stay at home mom. I guess you could say I wear a different hat today... more like a ponytail instead.

Today is laundry catch up day. The weekend wasn't too busy and I've managed to maintain a steady flow of clean socks and underwear for the boys. But I began to think about living green... I try to eat a healthy organic diet for my body... but what can I do for my planet?

The boys have started recycling. This means Mom has to remember to save the tin cans, take labels off, rinse and place then into the recycle bin. I'm not sure what the boys are doing yet... perhaps they'll take the bin to the curb for me tomorrow.

Anyways, I was looking into "Green" laundry detergents. Yikes! Did you know that many detergents are toxic...cancer causing agents? But there are many other detergents that are safe for us and the environment.

For years I used detergents from Amway. Those were nice. But now I have one of those High Efficiency washers, so I can't put just anything into it and haven't found the perfect detergent yet. However, I did find some nice and "friendly" ones for other washers.

All Free and Clear, Ivory Snow, Cheer Free and of course Liquid Woolite. But if you want to really "go green" then check with your local health food store or go online.
I found some nice products from these companies:
Abundant Earth www.abundantearth.com
Cal Ben Soap Company www.calbenpuresoap.com
Gaiam, Inc. www.gaiam.com
Kokpelli's Green Market www.kokopellited.com
Real Goods www.realgoods.com
Sun and Earth www.sunandearth.com
Green Marketplace.com
Seventh Generation www.seventhgeneration.com

It's important to be kind to your body and the Earth even when washing clothes. Look for petroleum-free laundry products. Explore the shelves of your local grocery store and health food shop, get some free catalogs and visit Web sites.

Here is my favorite on-line magazine... check it out for some healthy living tips.
http://www.greenmagazines.com/index.php?mag=x

Think green and stay clean!

And while I'm on my expedition to find the perfect detergent, I'll just recycle the plastic bottles and cardboard boxes my HE stuff comes in and keep writing romance to escape it all.