Reading, Writing, and Romance

Running Scared

2012-01-29T06:59:00.000-08:00

My newest book is due out on March 26th! Running Scared is the first in a series of contemporary romance novels that have two of my favorite kinds of men in them: Cowboys and Military guys. :)

I've done a lot of interviews over the past few months and one thing I've not discussed is my background. Where I come from, where I've been, and how I use that in my writing. I thought today to take a moment to share my life a bit and of course, a hot excerpt from Running Scared.

I've lived in the Southwest for years. It's only recently I've moved to the New England area. Prior to living here, I was in Florida, Arizona, and Colorado. I lived on the beach. I lived on a ranch. I've duded for a summer. I've cleaned stalls. I've cleaned up the beach. I've....well, you get the picture. I'm also a military brat in my respects. My step father is retired Air Force, and my cousins and many friends chose the military as a career.

Many people have heard some of my life story -- how I raised my son alone, how I escaped a bad situation, and traveled alone with him across the US to start over again. Some of those friends have asked why I don't write THAT story. But I write Romance, I say. And in my humble opinion, romance needs a happy ever after. I'm still waiting on mine! If I find one, maybe then, I'll write my story. Until then, my Navy SEAL stories pull from what I know, and what I've experienced and jumble it up into a hot romance. :) At least I hope so!

You be the judge:

Lacey paused with a pair of ear buds in hand and glanced around at the rickety shelves lined with anything a man could want. There was a lot of things she had no idea a man could want, she realized.

What she wanted was the little drill sergeant who owned this place. He'd been here all three times she'd come by the store. At around sixty plus years, he'd taken one look at her and seemed to think she had no clue what she was doig. Well, maybe she didn't. She'd been in here three times yesterday. Paint, the first trip. Back for rollers, drop clothes, and paintbrushes. Then back again for a ladder, which he convinced her she didn't need and hooked her up with some extension thing that twisted on the end of a roller. Pretty cool actually. She'd told him that when she'd walked in today, disturbing all three old guys from their talk and coffee. He'd frowned and set his coffee down with a long, drawn out and completely unnecessary sigh.

But now, when she could use the little guy he was where?

Maybe he actually did do more than follow her around.

Eyes back on the task she sighed. So chainsaw. Black ones, orange, some red looking huge thing, but no pink ones. That made her smile. Like she'd want a pink one. He'd probably think she did. Seriously. Picking up a lightweight one, she hefted the thing wondering how it would feel once it was actually turned on and roaring. The weight wasn't too horrible. She was about to set it down when a deep voice behind her had her nearly dropping the thing on her toes.

"You've got to be joking."

Her heart fluttered like a butterfly on the breeze.

Russell.

It'd been two days since she'd talked to the handsome Russell Ryland. She'd spotted him yesterday when she'd had lunch with Irene. He'd merely passed by the diner in his big truck, giving her a long, slow look and tipped his hat when she'd smiled, but he'd not come in. And of course she hadn't been the least disappointed that he hadn't.

Sigh. She had been, but he'd made up for it by tripping all over himself at the one and only little grocery store in town when he'd turned an aisle and seen her. He'd looked so cute all big and pushing a grocery cart. Cute. The man was high voltage, high powered, and there was something seriously wrong with her if she could see him as cute.

Still, she liked it. Kinda teasing him secretly.

She kept the chain saw and didn’t stop the happy smile splitting her face when she turned to confront Mr. Russ Ryland. She might get the thing simply to see him have a small fit. The man was impossibly chauvinistic and more than a little arrogant, but sexy enough to take her breath away.

Dark black brows went down at a sharp angle at the chain saw then zeroed in on her face.

God, he was handsome. Such a bad boy. Why, or why was she drawn to someone that looked like he could eat her for lunch? The idea of this man and his mouth between her thighs . . . she was not going there. Keep him off balance, not yourself, Lacey.

"You've got to --"

"Good afternoon Mr. Ryland."

They had some kind of unspoken battle going on over the name. He kept telling her quietly his name was Russ and she just as quietly called him Mr. Ryland. He'd done it at the real estate office but when he'd done it again at the grocery store, she'd been tickled to watch him when she ignored his request to call him Russ. Each time his jaw would clench slightly, like he was gritting his teeth. It was fascinating stuff, but she felt a bit like she was bear baiting.

"Listen S-"

"Hey! Major! What the hell are you doing back? Damn it's good to see you, sir."

She glanced away from Russ's deep gray eyes to see a young man, solider, his look said, grinning and striding up. The short blond hair recently shaved to the nub, the broad shoulders, hard, lean body and the way he walked all said he was probably about a year out of boot camp. Long enough for him to feel like a man. Geesh. Her dad loved to show them how they weren't quite there yet.

Her dad. All things went there it seemed. Stilling the urge to sink into a self-pity party, she glanced back up at the big bear instead. He'd not looked away from her for more than an instant it seemed.

Her heart fluttered but she still mouthed, 'major' at him. She mocked a shiver at the look and turned back to set the now much heavier chainsaw down. To jerk his chain, she turned away and squatted down to examine the boxes on display as if she was going to buy one.

"Bud, good to see you. How was your stint? Heard you were headed back in a few." Russ's voice seemed to be more gravelly than usual, deep and warm. It made her shiver.

"Yeah, it was good. Nice stint, sir. I have leave for a few weeks, elk season and you know my dad." His words kinda trailed off slowly as she stood back up."Hot damn . . . ahem, miss, can I help--"

"I got it. Tell your dad to come by anytime. The elk have been pasturing about a half-day ride from the ranch heading southwest. Good little five point."

She felt Russell's body heat and suddenly she was being ushered down an aisle by a firm, but gentle hand and a large, warm, hard body. A very firm, strong hand she noticed and a big, hard body.

"Call me later, I have to have a word here," he called back over his shoulder.

She got a glimpse of the guy's surprised face once before Russ had all her attention.

Holy cow did he have her attention. He had manhandled her down an aisle, away from her cart and the fun of teasing him with the chainsaws. So maybe bear baiting wasn't the smartest move, but wow did her body go hot for him. Just the touch of his hand on her arm had her breathless. Why was that more exciting than irritating?

"A word here?" she echoed glancing up at his hard face. A word here? Was he completely nuts? It was one thing to be so sexy he had her all hot and bothered, but to pull her down an aisle as if he could? Wow. She so couldn't let him know how hot that was. Right?

"Hey, I have my things back there, big guy, and this is a free shopping zone for everyone, right?"

His gray eyes darkened in warning and his nostrils flared. And no that should not be sexy as hell, but man oh man, could he not be sexy? Impossible. Too bad he was also a bit arrogant and bossy.

"Listen here, sunshine, I've had about enough of that. You are not buying an ax or a chainsaw."

Her body did a happy little burst of adrenaline at the cute nickname, but when he turned her gently but firmly to cup both of her upper arms and look down at her, she lost the ability to breath.

His hands were rough with calluses but he made sure to be gentle. Not so with his fierce expression.

Well, he was about to get what her dad called an education.

She pulled her arms and forced him to either tighten his hold and hurt her or let go. He let go. Quickly too. But he frowned harder.

"Now, would you like to repeat that, because I'm certain I'm well over eighteen and able to think on my own. Oh and chew gum and walk, too. I can even count higher than ten."

Hands on lean hips now he eyed her as if reassessing her.

Good. He should. She might have gotten beaten up badly, be scared half the time--well most of the time--but she wasn't scared of this man. Her dad had been just such a guy, big, tough and meant business with that look. Only he wasn't her dad. Not even close.

"And Major?"

He broke eye contact to contemplate the floor.

She chose to believe it was most likely the first time he'd been forced not to do what he pleased. If he was in the military, which was beginning to fit, and a major for goodness sakes, he wasn't used to hearing no. Or questioned.

His broad chest expanded and she blinked. Could a man have that many muscles? He wasn't wearing his jacket today. The light brown one that hung down his hips and made his broad shoulders look huge. Today he was wearing a gray tee that hugged his big biceps and thick chest and made her heart flutter around a bit too much at how it also snuggled over thick stomach muscles. Oh man, oh man. And for some reason he looked even bigger without the jacket. His dark hair still looked wet. From a shower? She even noticed a tan line where his neck line met his firm throat.

He looked back up and she was glad he spoke because she had to swallow at the intensity on his face.

"I was in the navy."

Navy. God. Her stomach bottomed out. "And a major?"

"Yeah, retired now."

"Ah..." She let that stand, not quite sure she believed him, a major was a big deal.

His brow rose as if he sensed her disbelief and his lips quirked up before he caught himself. Then he did it. He actually smiled. It was amazingly effective.

She held her breath and felt every ounce of blood zing through her with a whoosh. He was dazzling with that slow smile. It was sexy and yes, she admitted, made him look a great deal younger. More manageable . . . or maybe not that, good lord he would never be that, but more approachable. More human, less warrior. And good lord, did he have dimples?

God she was in trouble.

She smiled up at him; she couldn't not have. He seemed to be trying so hard. At what she wasn't sure she really wanted to know. . . but still.

The man wasn't a smiling kind of guy. Or a talker. But he was a persistent man. And she was beginning to feel like an entirely different kind of prey. He wasn't out to kill. No, he was out for something all together different and perhaps more dangerous. He wanted to definitely shake up her world. But telling her what to buy? With her own, or Uncle Sam's, money? No, no Mr. Big Bad Wolf.

"And this title, retired Major Ryland, gives you authority over my MasterCard?"

His lips quirked again at that then he nodded, straight faced.

"Damn straight if you're thinking of buying something that could cut your leg off."

"What if it only cut up all the wood in my back yard? Then would it be out of your jurisdiction? And oh, by the way, I don't see any ocean around here, Major Ryland. Aren't navy men supposed to be near it?"

"Still no, and still in my jurisdiction, and I can visit the ocean, I'm retired," he said, his grey eyes twinkling with a bit of humor.

He was enjoying this. And man, oh man was he good. And man, oh man was she in trouble. He had that dark but you can make me light thing going on. And dammit! That was it. That was what drew her, the bad boy needing saved thing.

"Now let's talk about what else you have in that cart. Why do you need a new lock? Didn't you just get the house? Doesn't it have a security system?"

"Whoa, whoa, whoa there big guy. My house and my cart are not your concern. Really, I am perfectly capable of spending my money, making my own decisions, driving and oh . . . all that other stuff adults do. Brush my teeth before bed, drink beer . . . all that adult stuff."

"Adult stuff?" He shifted closer, reminding her of how very much bigger he was. Quite a bit bigger actually. She had to look up or gaze at those big chest muscles. Really were those allowed? They looked like slabs of muscles.

"What did you do in the military Major Ryland?" she asked sweetly to try and calm her racing heart. He smelled good too. Darn it. Leather, horses and some male scent only he had she was certain.

A slow smile slid across his face. Odd it seemed like he was remembering how to smile and now couldn't stop.

"Special ops, SEALs, sunshine. Like me better now?"

Her stomach flipped. God that explained so much, she thought, the attraction, the attitude, all of it. She tried to keep her reactions to herself and sniffed at him.

"Not hardly. But it fits."

His dark brow lifted a tiny bit. Then his eyes dipped to her breasts before meeting her eyes again. Had her nipples hardened? Oh, god that was way too exciting. This was exciting. And had to be wrong.

"I'm sure it will," he murmured moving into her personal space.

Blogging over at Black Raven's Erotic Cafe

2012-01-20T10:25:00.000-08:00

Hop on over to Black Raven's for a chance to win a ecopy of Midnight Star or Silver's Chance!

http://theblackraveneroticcafe.com/?p=11788

Author Interview: Billi Jean

2012-01-20T08:52:00.000-08:00

Author Interview: Billi Jean

Books-n-Kisses: Interview with Billi Jean

2012-01-20T08:50:00.000-08:00

Books-n-Kisses: Interview with Billi Jean: Books-n-Kisses is pleased to welcome Billi Jean to the blog today. We are going to be talking about her books Midnight Star & Silvers Chanc...

Author interview: Billi Jean

2012-01-20T08:42:00.000-08:00

Author interview: Billi Jean

Everyday is an Adventure...: Silver's Chance by Billie Jean: Book Spotlight

2012-01-20T08:38:00.000-08:00

Everyday is an Adventure...: Silver's Chance by Billie Jean: Book Spotlight: Silver's Chance by Billie Jean is a novel that I am happy to spotlight here on the blog - this is really an interesting read, way outside m...

New Release: Running Scared

2012-01-20T07:39:00.000-08:00

Wow, I woke up this Wednesday -- hump day -- and slogged by way through a shower, gathering up a cup of microwaved coffee on my way to my room and sat down for a second to check my emails and....ohhhhhh! What a great way to start the day! I had an email from the wonderful Emmy Ellis, the cover artist for Totally Ebound, in my inbox with this fantastic cover for my newest book, Running Scared!!!

Running Scared is first in my new SEALs series, Love's Command. The book will release on March 26th and can I just say, wow to the Totally Ebound crew for being so organized and on top of everything. The cover is not only the most beautiful thing I could have wanted for Russell and Susan, it's simply a thing of beauty all on it's own. Emmy you are one talented woman!!!

Then today, I wake up, having taken the day off for doctor's appointments and what not, and again I get a wonderful email from Emmy, this time with all of this fun stuff!

I think my next book might have a main character named Emmy!!! She's my favorite person of the week -- heck -- month! It's snowy here, cold, my daughter isn't feeling well, I'm still in my jammies and WOW, I feel great. :)

I hope you'll check back in to hear more about Running Scared, the new series, and all that's happening in my busy writing world.

Thank you for reading! And don't forget the contest in February!

Hugs, billi jean

Happy New Year!

2012-01-14T07:32:00.000-08:00

Well welcome to the new year everyone! To celebrate, I'll be participating in a Valentine's Day blog hop and giving away both a copy of Midnight Star or Silver's Chance, and a $10.00 gift certificate to spend at Noble Romance Publishing.

What do you have to do to earn such hot prizes? Simply come back here during the Valentine's Day Blog Hop, February 11th - 14th and leave a comment on my blog about the Valentine's Day Blog. I'll be picking a winner on the 15th and sending out the prizes ASAP, so don't wait to post!

Hugs to everyone and hope to see you on the hop!

Billi Jean

Lost in Life

2011-11-14T15:46:00.000-08:00

So okay, yeah, I can admit it. I'm overwhelmed. Completely! Writing is taking up all my free time!!! And what is free time by the way? Working the full time day job, parenting and being the Mom Taxi is sucking up all my energy, let alone my imagination! Thank goodness it's almost winter and I won't feel guilt over staying indoors for hours at a time, strapped to my desktop. This time of year is always hard to stay in, knowing that soon it will require seven layers of clothes just to reach the outdoors without freezing parts of my body off!

Still, I've managed to enter and keep up with the Nanowrite. Not an easy feat, but I'm trying! I've also done some blogging elsewhere! Yeah, I know, I don't do much on here, but I thought getting my name and my books out there into a larger gene pool might be a good idea, plus, maybe you all would like to check out some of the cool sites out there. I know I enjoyed all the hot bloggers and review sites I found. I hope you do as well.

Here are some of my spots. I hope you can stop on by. There are some prizes that go along with some of the sites, so be sure to stop on in.

hugs

billi jean

http://thephantomparagrapher.blogspot.com/2011/11/vbt-billi-jean-midnight-star-silvers.html
http://ragesexandteddybears.blogspot.com/2011/11/giveaway-and-tour-stop-with-alphas-from.html
http://www.ebookaddictreviews.com/2011/11/04/interview-with-author-billi-jean/

Vote for Silver’s Chance by Billi Jean over at Long and Short of It

2011-10-12T18:24:00.000-07:00

Hop over to the Long and Short of It to vote for Silver's Chance!!! Woohooo! I can't believe Silver's Chance made it, I still look around like, what? My book? Book of the Week?? If you'd like to vote here's the link:

http://www.longandshortreviews.com/WC/index.htm

The Review is found here:

Whipped Cream Erotic Romance Reviews: Silver’s Chance by Billi Jean: Silver’s Chance by Billi Jean Publisher: Noble Romance Genre: Contemporary, Paranormal Length: Full Length (410 Pages) Other: M/F Rat...

Thank you everyone for all your support and encouragement. HUGS! Billi Jean

Silver's Chance is Going on a Tour!

2011-09-03T19:00:00.000-07:00

Well, a three day weekend!!! Hooray!! I can catch up on my editing, work on a short I'm writing, and spend some time with family over this nice, sweltering heat wave hitting New England!!! How nice is that?

Pretty sweet actually! :)

We've gotten the kinks out of Silver's Chance and it should be back up and available by Monday -- so anyone waiting on it to become active again on Noble Romance Publishing or on Amazon, please go check it out! :) And thank you again for all the interest in my second book.

I'll be hitting a few blogs in celebration of Silver's success starting in mid-September. I'm exploring some new to me sites and I'm pretty excited about meeting some fellow paranormal romance authors/readers. I think writing paranormal is the best, but I'm also a reader, and I love to lose myself in a great paranormal romance -- oh I like other types of books, but the imagination of some of the authors out there astounds me.

So, come on back over in a week or so -- once the dust settles from my day job -- and peek in on the schedule for my blog tour. :)

And again, thank you for stopping by!!!

hugs, billi jean

Second Week at Number One for Silver's Chance

2011-08-29T19:50:00.000-07:00

Well, I am super happy to still see Silver's Chance at #1 on the Noble Romance Publishing Top Ten Best Seller's List! Wow, what a compliment.

I have to tell you all though that today I had the worst news, I think, an author could ever receive. A reviewer was kind enough to email me about a glitch she found in Silver's Chance. Somehow a part of the ending of the story appears in Chapter 12.

I can't tell you how hard I worked on this book, how many hours of thinking, plotting and writing went into this manuscript. And then the editing and editing and editing prior to final edits with Noble. To have the book released, then to discover after all this time that the ending of the book was somehow mistakenly placed at the end of chapter 12 and where it belongs is -- well, heartbreaking.

People often ask me why do you write? It's simple. I write because I love to read. I love to read a book that takes me out of my world and into something else -- magical or otherwise. I write to give that to others -- that adventure. I want my readers to get that smile on their faces as they read the last page of one of my books. I want them to feel lighter, happier, pleased that they've spent an afternoon, or evening, or a day simply reading a 'good book.'

How can you enjoy a book that jars you out of the world an author is spinning when there are formatting errors like this? I'm sure you cannot.

I apologize deeply and hope that this will soon be corrected.

hugs,

billi jean

Noble Romance August Release Party!

2011-08-24T05:15:00.000-07:00

Saturday, August 27 from Noon to 9 Eastern - Noble Romance will have a August Release Party with excerpts, contests, prizes - and of course, lots of fun. Everyone who participates will be entered in a drawing for a Kindle. Come on by, get to know the authors and have some fun.

I'll be there for most of the day, but my spot is 1pm and I'll be giving away two Noble Gift Cards, a signed copy or ecopy of Midnight Star or an ecopy of Silver's Chance. That's a lot of goodies to give away, so come by and help me out a bit, okay?

Some of the authors participating are:

Natalie Rogue - 12Noon
Billi Jean - 1pm
KevaD - 2pm
K.B. Cutter - 3pm
D.B. Moon - 4pm
Bonnie Ferrante - 5pm
Margie Church - 6pm
Mary Abshire - 7pm
Mary Abshire - 8pm
Mary Abshire - 9pm

Link: http://groups.yahoo.com/group/NobleRomancePublishing/

Snippet from Silver's Chance

2011-08-19T06:52:00.000-07:00

Starting on Friday's I'll be adding snippets from the Sisters of the Moon series to my blog. I might also offer out snippets from my other manuscripts-in-the-works, so stay tuned. Enjoy!!

billi jean

* * * * *

Derrick caught Samantha's admiring look. His heart swelled along with other parts of his anatomy. Ah, gods, she liked him when he wanted to rip someone's head off, just no' her own. Jesus. She was enough to make him want to kiss her until she melted in his arms.

She was in danger though. If Death Stalkers were close, there would be a fight. Nothing would stop him from destroying them. Protecting her.

His mate's welfare came first.

She glanced at him again, this time shaking out her long hair. His body hardened further at the sexy toss of her head.

"Don't even contemplate it. While you've been screwed? Some of us have been kicking ass."

"And handing it to them with a bow on top, big guy."

"Tabithia." Aeros' voice deepened in concern.

Tabithia gazed up at the warrior Derrick had seen face battlefields of the enemy. She reached up with a small hand, cupped Aeros' jaw, and trailed her hand down his chest. Aeros was defeated before he'd even entered the battle.

Derrick turned to Samantha. She lifted a brow, as if daring him to try to stop her from battling the Death Stalkers. He should, he wanted to, but he knew in the immortal world, she'd have to be as strong as possible to survive.

If she were hurt though, he'd kill any immortal that caused her pain.

"Well, well, well . . . ."

The rough, Russian accent had Derrick's hackles rising. He knew the voice, had heard it in, and out, of his dreams. Dark, raw memories threatened to break to the surface. His wolf raised his head, attention fully engaged on the Death Stalker casually strolling toward them. Six males flanked him in an arrow formation with the Russian as the head.

"Who would have thought, a wolf pack mixing it up with a witch and a Greek relic?"

For once, none of the Death Stalkers wore the traditional cowl and cloak of their order. Instead, they dressed in dark jeans and black, rough-looking, long trench coats over darker shirts. Each one also sported a five-pointed star on the side of their jaw. The drops of blood on the corners of the stars were dark enough Derrick could count the individual tears from where he stood.

Had times changed so drastically that Death Stalkers walked free without hiding beneath their traditional hoods?

Didn't matter. Derrick would kill them as easily now as he did when they hid like cowards. They stopped a few feet away; the Russian earned Derrick's full attention.

The dark thatch of hair, pale, pockmarked face, and slim, canted nose, narrow chin, and dull, heavy, lidded eyes tagged the Death Stalker from the endless score of undead sent to tempt Derrick during his years of torment.

Now, he would be the first to die. The others were merely lackeys Derrick would kill after, but the one in the center would be the first to fall. He held the power in the group. Cut off the head and the body would wither and die.

"Sweet, you're here to join the party? I dunno, I didn't remember inviting any scum. Did you, Silver?"

Derrick blinked at Tabithia's sing-song voice.

Samantha canted her head to the side as if curious and pursed her pink lips. "Not my style, Tabbie-cat."

Derrick shared an alarmed glance with Aeros. The big Spartan merely looked worried at the girls' fun. The two women were enough to scare the shit out of him.

"Spare us the chatter, ladies. We're here for you, Silver. Come with us, and we'll spare your friends."

Derrick swung to face the Russian. When he took a step, Samantha halted him with a hand on his wrist.

Samantha pretended to fan herself, saying, "Wow, second offer in days. What's a girl to do?"

"Come with us, or you will die."

Rage hit Derrick hard and fast. Battle readiness tensed every muscle. His wolf crouched in his mind, ready to pounce. He took a step forward, but Samantha's laughter, and her tight hold on his arm, stopped him.

"Oy, there's a good one. Wait, wait, let me think." Samantha tapped her brow, pretending to consider the Death Stalker's threat. "Wasn't that in the B movie we watched last month, Tabbie-cat?"

Derrick fought a grin at her fun. Wolves did such things. But he had more on his mind than taunting the bastard; he wanted blood. The sooner, the better.

Tabithia snapped her fingers. Eyes big, she said, "Dudette, you're right! Valley of the Stupid?"

"Tabithia."

At the heavy warning tone in Aeros' voice, Tabithia exhaled and muttered something about being a party pooper. The next instant, she shot a streak of green fire at the Russian like a dagger.

The man screamed. Shock raced down Derrick's spine followed quickly by panic when he saw Samantha raise her hands. A blue streak of magic poured from her palms as she aimed over the group's head. At first, he thought she'd missed. But then, while the most dangerous of the group fought the witch's spell, a blue truck shot across the alley and hit two of the Death Stalkers. The vehicle crashed into them from behind, pinning them against the brick building with such force the men shrieked like cats.

Holy Fuck.

Derrick met Aeros' look over the chaos. The male had the nerve to grin.

The fuckin' Spartan knew the women could do this.

"Remind me to kick your ass, Spartan."

Aeros laughed. "You can try, wolf." Broadsword out, he jumped toward the two Death Stalkers heading toward Tabithia.

Derrick stepped in right behind him, ready to stop the other two. His heart cried out in elation, pumping enough strength through his body, he'd have no problem lifting the building behind him, let alone rip the throat out of the remaining two. Death Stalker blood sprayed the alley. His wolf howled and snarled for more. When he turned, he saw Aeros dispatch a Death Stalker with a hard, fast strike of his broadsword through the man's neck. Derrick exchanged a look with Aeros. The Russian and Tabithia were in some sort of magic battle.

Metal crunched to his left. Derrick spun to see Samantha crouched on her haunches on the hood of a blue truck, looking like some sexy war goddess. He watched, amazement lightening his chest, as she sliced the heads off the two trapped men. Not surprisingly, her swords spun in the air so quickly there was barely a bead of blood on the silver. When she stood up and spun, her silky, black hair fanned out like raven wings. Blue eyes blazed brightly, quick and intelligent as she looked over the scene, before her gaze landed on Derrick. She looked so beautiful standing there, her swords still out, her hair down, and her eyes shining. She simply took his breath away. He wanted so much to go to her, hold her tightly, but her flushed expression held him in place. Her eyes, always so blue, were shot with light. Her wolf?

A hoarse curse and a muffled grunt followed by Aeros bellowing Samantha's name flung him back into action.

"Derrick! Behind you!" Samantha's shout warned him in time to see Aeros fall to his knees in front of Tabithia. The small redhead lay on her side in the road, one arm bent at an awkward angle, the other gripping her middle tightly. The Russian spun within a circle of debris. The wind the mage conjured shook the alley with power.

"Down! Down, Derrick, down!'

He glanced once at her fiercely beautiful face, recognizing her determination. He knew Samantha was strong. He'd seen her throw a truck. But Tabithia was down, and Aeros was plainly out of his mind over her wound. With no time to think, Derrick unleashed his beast and dove at the mage. He grabbed the smaller man around the waist and knocked him to the ground.

Sparks flew, some hitting Derrick like white-hot bee stings. Pain nearly knocked him out as the sparks dug in deeper. He held on tighter, crushing the smaller man in his grip.

"Derrick! You idiot! Let him go so I can end his miserable life!"

A muffled crunch sounded, and the mage stopped struggling. Breathless and wracked with pain, Derrick tossed the garbage aside and bent over to catch his breath.

Minx Malone: Teasing Trent

2011-08-18T07:24:00.000-07:00

Teasing Trent by Minx Malone

My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Teasing Trent by Minx Malone is my kind of friend-loves-brother's-sister-story. I love that kind of plot, where the guy is worried over 'over-stepping' the line and the girl is determined to force a little stepping!

Mara, the main character is much more than a little sister with a crush. She has a plan, but with all plans involving your heart, she stumbles a bit. I liked Mara right away. She was one of those confident girls you like, that has that quick bit of insecurity with an even quicker flash of intelligent 'whatever!' thrown in. Trent was awesome. Who doesn't like the guy who tries so hard to do right he talks to himself, stumbles over his words, and falls all over himself trying to behave??

Teasing Trent is a fun, sassy story with great characters and some steamy -- hot and steamy -- scenes. I highly recommend anything Minx writes -- she simply has a flare for words -- but Teasing Trent was a great read!

View all my reviews

OMG!!! Silver's Chance hits #2 on Noble's Best Seller List!!!!

2011-08-17T17:28:00.000-07:00

I'm floored. Really. Unbelievable as it sounds and believe me, it is unbelievable! -- Silver's Chance is #2 on the Noble Best Seller list. I can't believe it, but I saw it. It's real. LOL. Samantha and Derrick are so not surprised, but for this newbie author? I stared and stared at the screen until it sunk in. Wow.

I really want to thank everyone whose gone and invested their time and hard earned money for a copy of Silver's Chance. Wow. I hope the story is one you enjoy!!!

To celebrate? I'm doing a book review tomorrow -- one of the ladies I first exchanged work with way back when -- Minx Malone. She's awesome and I was thrilled to see she has a new book -- Teasing Trent.

On Friday, I'm doing a Sneak Peek Snippet. So, if you are interested in the Sister of the Moon and where the series is headed, come on by every Friday for a snippet from the next in the series, A Spartan's Kiss. I just learned today that we're shooting for a Christmas Release date, so wow! Another in the series out for you all as a Christmas gift!!

I'll also be doing some give away's and author interviews. So, stay tuned and again, my deepest thanks to everyone for taking a chance on a new author!!!

hugs,

billi jean

Don't Forget !! Writer Wednesdays with Shiloh Walker

2011-08-16T07:15:00.000-07:00

Okay, I'm a fan girl. I have authors who hit my auto buy list after only one book. Shiloh Walker is one of them. I absolutely loved her Cops and Cowboys and her books Fragile and Broken just had me on edge the entire time I read them. I think I opened my Amazon package, sat down and finished Fragile the first night. I can remember thinking, what about Quinn??? I had to wait a while for his story in Broken, but wow, was it worth the wait

This Wednesday, I'll be appearing on Shiloh Walker's Blog, answering some questions about myself, writing, and giving out some advice --lol -- on being an author.

Stop by. Have some fun, and explore Shiloh's awesome website.

Looking to buy a book by Shiloh? She's everywhere, but here's a link to Ellora's Cave and of course, she's over at Amazon!

hugs,

Billi Jean

WOOOHOOOO!!!! Samantha and Derrick have gone public!!!

2011-08-15T06:54:00.000-07:00

Silver's Chance is out today over at Noble Romance Publishing!

Blurb:

When life throws Samantha a curve ball in the form of an ancient Lykae warlord bent on marking her as his - what's she going to do? Run like hell? Oh, yeah, that so worked the first time around. With Derrick hot after her tail, Samantha discovers being the hunted just might not be as bad as she thought.
Derrick is a warlord hardened by centuries of battle. Now that he's free from years of torment, he discovers his mate. Only his beautiful little half wolf is as determined to deny him, as he is to claim her.
As the battle to keep her safe intensifies, Derrick faces the biggest fight of his life: winning Samantha's heart and keeping alive long enough to claim her.
Together they just might tame each other.

Chapter of Silver's Chance up at Night Owl Reviews!

2011-08-08T08:00:00.000-07:00

Today I'm over at Night Owl Reviews. Stop on over for a sneak peek at a chapter from Silver's Chance! Release Day is Monday, August 8th!

hugs,

billi jean

Night Owl Reviews -- Chance to Win Prizes!

2011-08-08T06:20:00.000-07:00

Night Owl Reviews is offering prizes today for my new release, Silver's Chance, coming out August 15th over at Noble Romance Publishing!

Stop by Night Owl Reviews and leave a comment, read a chapter, and find out more about me! :)

http://nightowlromanceblog.blogspot.com/2011/08/billi-jean-silvers-chance-excerpt-and.html?utm_source=NightOwlRomanceBlog&utm_medium=Night+Owl+Romance+Blog&utm_campaign=twitter

best,

billi jean

Another Blog Hop for Billi Jean!

2011-08-05T08:29:00.000-07:00

Today I'm over at My Disorganized Ramblings talking with Natasha about all kinds of stuff! Stop by for a chance to win an ecopy of Silver's Chance or a signed copy of Midnight Star. We're also giving away a gift card to a luck winner!

hugs,

Billi Jean

Don't Forget! I'm over at the Smutty Kitty today talkin' about Alpha Males

2011-08-03T03:36:00.000-07:00

Stop the Smutty Kitty for a chance to win an ecopy of Silver's Chance, my newest novel in the Sister's of the Moon series....

Here's a tidbit for Kitty's blog:

Alpha males. What makes a man an alpha? Is it his standing in the pack of other men? Or his yumminess with the women? His strength? Personality?

As I sat down to my computer to work on my next novel in the Sisters of the Moon series, I was plagued with all kinds of doubts over my main character, Aeros. Was he alpha enough? He's captain of the Spartans —a band of immortal warriors brought back from the dead by Ares to serve him for eternity – or so it would seem. He's tough, rough around the edges, but also cultured, well-spoken --except for when he curses-- and he has a tendency to order everyone about. He's a leader though, so well, ordering everyone about comes naturally. So, isn't that alpha enough?

Well, I had my doubts, so I hopped on over to the Lykae compound to toss around some questions, all innocent like, with the boys while they were busy working out. My thinking was sorta like, well, they'll be so busy, they won't notice me ….

Busy, Busy, Busy, Busy Week!!!!

2011-07-30T06:53:00.000-07:00

Well, wow. This has been one busy week. And today is even busier! I'm over at All I Want and More giving away signed copies of Midnight Star or a chance to win Silver's Chance, my new paranormal romance!

I'm also over at my publisher's reader group: Noble Author Reader's Group from 1 to 9 Eastern - Daylong release party, with excerpts, contests, prizes - lots of fun.

Some of the authors participating are:

Erika Sorin - 1 - 1:30
Rebekah Purdy - 1:30 - 2
Billi Jean - 2 - 3
Hot New Talent, Chris Lange 3-4
Martin Delecroix - 4-5
D.B. Moon - 5-6
Elizabeth Morgan - 6-7
Margie Church - 7-9

Silver's Chance will hit the shelves soon! To celebrate Samantha and Derrick's story, I'll be appearing at several blogs giving our signed copies of Midnight Star, and ecopies of Silver's Chance.

On August 3rd, Ranger and Markee from Midnight Star along with Agni and Torment will be discussing alpha males over at The Smutty Kitten

Derrick the hottie alpha in Silver's Chance, will be under some fire from the guys on his mate's tendency to 'pin him' with her powers. Derrick, as an alpha himself, handles it very well -- and why not? His mate, Samantha can pin him anywhere, so he doesn't mind.

On August 5th, Billi Jean travels up to Canada for an interview and another give away at My Disorganized Ramblings

Natasha will run a give away and the prize will not only be a book give away of your choice but a gift card to either Amazon or Noble Romance Publishing! Natasha plans on grilling me over my work, my life, and the Sister of the Moon series in general. Have questions for me, here's a place to chat it up with and learn more about some other novels I'm working on.

Don't be shy! Stop by, chat, read some interviews and get a sneak peek at Silver's Chance or win a copy of Silver's Chance!

Interested in more up and coming events? follow me on Goodreads, Twitter and Facebook!

Happy Weekend Everyone!

Billi Jean

Release Day!!!!

2011-07-24T17:17:00.000-07:00

First can I just say, "Whew!" that was a long, long time coming! Silver's Chance out at last. Believe it or not, Silver's Chance -- once called Dark Moon Rising -- began over five years ago as a story about Samantha looking for her lost twin. At the same time I was frantically typing out Samantha's story, I was also just as frantically typing up her sister's story! Whew. I had so much in my head needing out, I couldn't type fast enough. Then when the dust settled I appeared to have two stories, both with dead ends! OMG! Right?

Thus, Midnight Star was born as my first book. Star's story came easier to me, even with my then three year old daughter hiding my flash drive for six months in her little jewelry box.

After Midnight Star's success, I knew I couldn't simply bury Samantha and Derrick. Instead, I busted my butt on trying to get my next manuscript to a point where I could submit it to my publisher, Noble Romance Publishing. Tomorrow, Samantha and Derrick's story hits the press -- so to speak.

To celebrate, I'm running around a few blogs, doing give-aways, interviews, and even a behind the scenes look at the boys we all love to read about: alpha males.

Truly, I could not have come this far in my writing without my favorite yahoo group, International Heat Wave, and all the wonderful people that make up that fantastic group. My critique partner also held my hand, gave me a shoulder to cry on, and listened to my rants. Elizabeth Moore now has the fun job of doing that all over again for Tabithia's story: A Spartan's Kiss. I hope she likes it.....and if not, she will be the time she beats me over the head! Jill Noble has also been a huge inspiration. She's a tireless woman, let me tell you. The 3 am emails aside, she's taken a small epublishing company and made a big splash. My editor on this project also was a huge influence in my finished product. He really made me look at what I write differently, and slowly but surely got me to see my grammar mistakes. That is HUGE! :)

Below is a schedule of events where you can catch me, and to everyone out there who reads my little blog, thank you!!

hugs, billi jean

er....and forgive the third person! I'm being lazy and using this little piece below in the Noble Romance Newsletter. If you want in on that great newsletter, or on their blog, here's the link:
http://nobleauthors.blogspot.com/?zx=2ab0544153666785

On July 25th Billi Jean will be over at Drea Becraft's site A Book is Worth a Thousand Dreams
http://dreabecraft.wordpress.com/
Drea interviews me and I'm giving away a signed copy of Midnight Star or an ecopy of Silver's Chance!

On July 30th, there will be a chance to win a copy of Midnight Star or an ecopy of Silver's Chance over at All I Want and More: http://www.alliwantandmore.blogspot.com/
Cecile the owner and fabulous operator of the site has interviewed Billi Jean and will offer a chance to win prizes! The two women might even do some wrestling over ownership of a certain hottie hunk named Gerald Butler, but hey, if it comes to that, I'm sure we'll sell popcorn or provide other more fun refreshments!

On August 3rd, Ranger and Markee from Midnight Star, along with Agni and Torment will be discussing alpha males over at The Smutty Kitty:

http://thesmuttykitty.wordpress.com/
Derrick the hottie alpha in Silver's Chance, will be under some fire from the guys on his mate's tendency to 'pin him' with her powers. Derrick, as an alpha himself, handles it very well -- and why not? His mate, Samantha can pin him anywhere, so he doesn't mind.

On August 5th, Billi Jean travels up to Canada for an interview and another give away at My Disorganized Ramblings.
http://www.mydisorganizedramblings.ca/
Natasha will run a give away and the prize will not only be a book give away of your choice but a gift card to either Amazon or Noble Romance Publishing! Natasha plans on grilling Billi over her work, her life, and the Sister of the Moon series in general. Have questions for Billi Jean, here's a place to chat it up with Billi Jean and learn more about some other novels she's working on.

Silver's Chance

2011-07-13T10:40:00.000-07:00

I love this cover. I mean, wow. Fiona Jade, from Noble Romance Publishing rocks!!! Derrick looks hot and Samantha just looks intense 'cause, well, yeah, she is!!! Look for more soon....

hugs, billi jean

Silver's Chance

2011-06-20T08:58:00.000-07:00

Wooohooo! Can I just say, "WOOHOO!" Finally, the second book in my Sisters of the Moon series is on its way! The release date is July 25th and I'm so excited I've barely been able to sleep! I think for this book I'm much more ready to get the word out and so to do this, I've asked around and discovered some great bloggers who want to have me do a drop by -- maybe with prizes -- for the lucky readers! I'm pretty excited and will post later on that when I know dates/links and so on. :)

Still, squeal! Finally, Samantha and Derrick will have their little battle, er...cough, cough, romance published. It's very appropriate that I say battle because their relationship is full of them. There's a lot of fights, both between themselves, and the Death Stalkers in this book. Samantha and Derrick also battle themselves. Derrick to calm his wolf after years of torture -- Samantha to win over the guilt weighing her down over loosing her sister. It's an all out war at times between the pull of the mating, the inner turmoil, and of course Death Stalkers trying to take their heads, if not simply them.

All righty, so here's a peek at their first little....er....battle? :) Hope you enjoy!

Samantha watched the wolfman until he nodded, his eyes all warm again, before she hooked a loose strand of black hair off her face, and squatted at his feet. A little lightheaded from the long day, she reached out to steady herself with a hand on his thickly muscled thigh. Heat burned though the rough material, instantly warming her hand. She tried her best to ignore the feel of him. Using her gift required focus. So she needed to remain calm. The dark material around the metal stud shone brightly with new blood. Under the crimson stain, older, darker stains marred the material. How long had he been down here? How long had he struggled to gain his freedom only to have this metal halt him? And why had he been able to rip one of the bolts out when she'd almost left?

"You’re lucky I have some affinity with metal, or I have no idea how we would get you free . . . other than you beasting out . . . ."

It took her a second to realize his body had gone utterly still under her palm. She glanced up, sucking a breath at the hunger in his gaze. Suddenly, her position registered. She glared.

In response, his mouth edged up in a cocky smile. His dark eyes glowed pure lust while his expression said he found her position exceedingly agreeable and wouldn’t mind her pulling more out than his bolts.

Oh hell no.

"Dream on, pup." She looked away and immediately became aware of his tawny colored breeches bulging with something that hadn’t been there a moment before. The lump filled the fabric until she could clearly see the outline of his stiff penis trying to burst free. Gods, he couldn’t possibly be so thick . . . long . . . and geesh, you’d think that would be painful. As soon as the thought surfaced, she heard a low purr. His hips moved in an ever so slight thrust. The impressive cylinder grew impossibly hefty right before her eyes while he groaned, low and sexy.

She jerked her eyes back to the metal. She refused to look at his impressive package, at how the material cupped it, outlining the long, thick stalk. Or how the bulge of what she guessed was a hefty sack underneath had added a bulk all of its own. A shiver raced down her body, tightening her stomach, clenching her empty core in need. To feel his thick flesh parting her? What would it feel like? Painful? Pleasurable? Or both?

What the hell was she thinking? Nearly growling, she jerked her mind out of the gutter and glared daggers at the metal. Focus on the steel, not the sexy wolf, Sammie.

With a great deal more concentration than she'd normally have to use, she managed to locate the metal with her mind. The silver glowed blue in her mind's eye, but resisted her pull at first, until she jerked the bolts out a little harder than necessary. They flew across the cavern, hitting the far wall with a sharp crack.

"Bloody hell female!"

Uh, yeah. Might have stung a little. Oops.

His hand clenched her shoulder. Painful, but without the grip, she bet he would have fallen.

Face pale, eyes squeezed shut, sucking air like he'd run a marathon—the guy did not look as cocky as he had moments before. Yeah, he looked pissed. Well, what did he expect?

"I told you I was—"

"Aye, but gie us some warnin’ afore ye yank a bit o' metal from me leg while on yer knees inches from . . ." He stopped abruptly, eyeing her with an unabashed look of hunger.

She glared at him because, really, that accent, uh, wow. Hot. And barely understandable when he was a wee bit upset.

"Yes? You were saying? 'Cause I gotta tell you, I can barely make out every other word there, sunshine. So, yeah. You want to stay here? Was that it?" She pushed his hand off and stood, watching his impressive chest rise and fall as he grappled with control. The smattering of gold-tipped hair on his tanned chest filled her mind with ideas. Delicious, hot ideas of tracing that trail downward with her tongue. Goddess he was still hard and thick. He looked seconds away from ripping through the material. Which wouldn't be such a terrible sight, but damn. The man was bleeding. His flesh torn. Gaping really. And he still sported wood?

Unbelievable. She felt herself getting wet. Excited. Tingly. The guy had to be doing something to her, because there was simply no reasonable explanation for her getting hot and bothered over him. Other than his magnificent body, her stupid mind reminded her. She refused to look up at his face, or downward, so she focused on his chest and found a few white scars here and there, some mixed in the golden thatch of hair on his chest.

"Nay, lass, I wadna like tae stay," he ground out roughly then nodded as if to say he was sorry.

She wasn’t biting; she just moved her eyes from his chest to stare steadily into his eyes.

"Ah . . . I dinna mean . . . ah . . . shoudna raised my voice to ye," he murmured finally, as if she had to pull the apology out of him more painfully than the hunk of metal.

"Let’s get that last bolt out. It will hurt," she said.

His brow dipped at her words as if he remembered she hadn’t given that little warning before. Well, what did he think? It would tickle? He'd torn one out when she’d left him.

When he looked ready, she leaned forward and touched his other shoulder in warning. Hot, silky-smooth, hard muscle met her hand, making her body sizzle. She jerked back, stumbled, but he wrapped an arm around her lower back, catching her by pulling her flush against every inch of him.

Heat flooded her. Her pussy, already warm, snapped to attention. Neglected flesh filled with wetness slicking her passage. Her heart sounded loud to her inner ear. She met his brilliant eyes, hoping he didn't sense her attraction. The intense need in his eyes matched hers. All at once, she felt like rubbing against him, touching his skin, and running her nails down the tight indent in his stomach. His thick erection branded her as it got larger.

They both froze. She stared up at him, unsure of what to do. He broke the spell first by releasing a long, deep breath. She felt his palm on her flesh the width spanned her back, burning her with its touch. Spicy, warm male hit her senses. She arched closer, barely holding in a whimper of need.

Oh, goddess, she had lost her mind. Common sense shouted to step back. For a moment, one quick heartbeat, she thought he might not let her. Goddess help her if he didn't because what she wanted more than anything was the taste of his firm, masculine lips on hers.

With a low growl, which sounded like a vile curse in Gaelic, he shook his head hard. Confusion flooded his handsome face a second before his scowl returned, and he released her.

Good News Comes in ....

2011-05-07T06:16:00.000-07:00

Threes? :) Wait, or is that bad news? Maybe it's simply things that come in threes....Three bears, Three wishes....Three things to cheer about!

Number One: I hit a roll on my editing of Silver's Chance and she's off to Noble Romance Publishing for a contract!!! Wooohooo. I'm so excited. This will be the second book published in my Sisters of the Moon Series. Samantha and Derrick made a brief appearance in Midnight Star -- they were the couple in the beginning with some sizzling fireworks between them? Then they showed up a few more times just to hit Ranger over the head.... Let's just say Derrick is a wolf that does not know when to give up. Thankfully!

Number Two: Midnight Star received another award! This time, Rose, over at Two Lips Review gave Star and Ranger a four and a half lips review. A few days later, Midnight Star went on to win the Reader's Choice Award!!! I can't tell you how wonderful it is, as a new author, to receive such well thought out, and well written feedback on my work. And having readers choose my book for an award? It's just wonderful. It really boosts my confidence. But more, it stabilizes my voice -- my inner thoughts (which are my characters thoughts) and when I feel that way, my work flows on the paper. Amazing. I wish I could bottle up reviews and slurp them down when I hit a tough spot in my editing! Well, I guess I do that when I go back and re-read a few reviews...

Number Three: I'm feeling better! I've been struggling with some stomach thing -- for choice of a better word -- because I really don't know what is up with my stomach. Neither do the doctors. But -- this week I've hit a turn in the road and am feeling so much better I can almost forget how bad it was....almost. Anyway, I am so not taking my health for granted and still getting some tests, but WOW, do I feel more like ME. :)

Does anyone else have good news in threes? I hope we can have our good news triple again, rather than have a spurt of bad news.....:(

hugs and thank you for following!

Billi Jean

Life's Fun Journey

2011-02-20T08:34:00.000-08:00

So, yeah. Life. It can be so fun sometimes and suck so bad other times you have to wonder who the hell is messing with you! This week was a major turning point in my life. I hope a good one. I have always struggled with juggling parenting and working. My job, this past few years, has been full-time -- pretty much 8 - 6.(By the time you drop of wee ones, and pick them up, it's nearly 6, so yeah, 8-6). In that mass of confusion, I had to work for a woman who was horrid. Not a good combo. Toxic actually. And for my writing? Painful. There's only so many nights you can go without sleep, ignore the laundry, and let the kids have left overs so you can rush them to bed and begin on your next chapter. Gah. Pretty bad.

Now? All that is about to change. I say 'about' because the changes haven't actually sunk in. I feel a bit like I survived my own personal battle and am just now picking up the pieces of my life flung all over the battleground by the constant attacks. Yeah. Not good, but? It will be. Somehow I always survive -knock on wood -- at times, like a cat, amazingly landing on my feet.

So, what were the changes? I quit my job. The horrid woman? The long hours? Gone. Instead, I'm working two jobs without 'benefits' other than I only have to 'work' 8:30 -11:30 and the rest of time? Is my own -- to get my other jobs done. The morning gig is tutoring, I'm a trained elementary teacher -- so that is loads of fun and good pay. The other job? Correspondent for a local paper -- which also pays very well.

Yeah. Loving this so far because this will mean I have more time to spend on my writing -- the romance writing. OMG. Can you say GRIN? Whew. Yeah. A huge relief.

My plan? First, I'm reworking some of Silver's Chance once I get some opinions back from some very lovely ladies. While that's happening, I'm working on Tabithia and Aeros. I'm also juggling final edits (prior to send off) of Golden's Rule. Tabbie and Aeros still need a title, but the line up will be: Silver's Chance, Whatever I Name Tab/Aeros, and Golden's Rule. :)

I'm also sketching out three other MS in the Sisters of the Moon world -- not necessarily in their series. But for now, Tab and Aeros are open on my desktop and I'm loving the couple. *sigh* I love them all, but Tabbie is a ...well, I'll let you see. And speaking of that - I'm going to start a Tuesday Teaser -- a little bit of a story I'm working on for you all to see first -- even before my lovely editors! :)

So, yes, my life. The move to two jobs is a good one. The chance to make writing more full time - my life's work -- is a good one. I'm excited and so happy. My kids, my son's games, my daughter's -- well, she's five, so her everything -- won't be missed. And that, more than anything makes this a great move.

Thank you all of you for your support. I know, from just my correspondence within my yahoo groups, that many of you suffer under people like my now ex-supervisor. They talk about bullying in school, but maybe more should be written on bullying in the workplace. *sigh*

I wish all of you the best!!!

billi jean

Midnight Star: Best Book at Long and Short Reviews

2011-02-03T06:02:00.000-08:00

I'm too busy happy dancing to post about my review, so I'll just plop it in here and you can see why I'm grinning like I won the lotto!!!!

:) billi jean

Midnight Star by Billi Jean

Midnight Star by Billi Jean
Publisher: Noble Romance Publishing
Genre: Contemporary, Paranormal, Science Fiction/Fantasy
Length: Full Length (295 Pages)
Heat Level: Spicy
Rating: Best Book
Reviewed by Holly

Ranger is a werewolf, a Lykae with a problem. He's found his one true mate, the only female who can complete him. Only trouble is, he's denied his instinct to claim her. Now his mate hates him as much as she believes he hates her. He will have to risk both their lives to finally prove to his stubborn vampire he loves her?

Star is a half-breed vampire with a past of not being accepted because of her mixed blood. Ranger is just one more example of how much she doesn't fit into the immortal world no matter how much she tries to fool herself into believing otherwise. She's a strong female, a fighter, but when it comes to the opinions of others, she has no defenses. Why fight what she knows is true? She is a half breed, less than those around her. She has a home, friends and females she loves like family. Only trouble is, her family is now related to the mangy wolf man who hates her.

Vampires destroyed Ranger’s whole family. At least he believed he was the last of his blood, until Star brought two females back to the stronghold, females of his blood.

Ranger overreacts to Star, as she is half vampire, and tries to take her head, giving her the idea that he hates her. The truth of the matter is, Ranger recognized immediately after the initial attack that Star is his one true mate, but for six months he has ignored her and the feelings she brings out in him. When they are forced to work together, Ranger tries to show her his true feelings, but Star isn’t buying into it. She knows how he makes her feel, and she won’t settle for any pale imitation.

When they become separated from the rest of the team on a mission, Ranger and Star become trapped underground, and he decides to use the time to convince her of his feelings and intentions. This would be fine, except they are being chased by mutant wolves, evil vampires and the Dark Ones, and can’t seem to find a way out. And every day, Ranger’s inner wolf grows more determined to mate with Star. Can they complete the mission, rescue the missing girl and get back to the stronghold alive? Can Ranger convince Star that she is his mate, and that he doesn’t hate her?

Billi Jean has written a fast paced thriller, filled with romance, passion and lots of humor. There are many missed chances, and errors in communication between our hero and heroine, but there is also an escalation of heat as they spend time together. This is a world filled with political intrigue between the vampires and the wolves, and the battle between good and evil. This is a story that kept me on the edge of my seat, wanting to see where it would take me next.

Star is half vampire, and has been tortured by the family that should have loved and nurtured her. She feels no compassion for the evil vampires, and it was those same vampires killed the only person who ever showed her any love. She is strong, and sassy and quick to anger. She has wonderful discussions with herself about Ranger and her feelings for him.

Ranger has regretted his attack on Star for six months, but has no idea how to make things right between them. He is smart enough to realize that when she finds out what he has known since he saw her, that she is his mate, she will be furious about it. I loved Ranger and enjoyed watching as he just dug his hole deeper with every action. Yes he is strong, and hot, and loyal. But above all else, he is fallible, and that makes him all the more attractive. He’s not perfect, and he tends to speak before he thinks, or act first and think later.

This is a story with twists and turns and surprises around every corner. Just when I thought I knew what would happen next, Billi Jean threw me in a different direction completely. The supporting characters were as well crafted as the main hero and heroine.

I want to read more about some of her supporting characters in the future; characters like the demons Agni and Torment, and the other wolves in the stronghold. I look forward to reading more set in the marvelous world that Billi Jean has created, and the passion she evokes from her characters. I will warn you that this one will make you laugh, and cry and shake your head in wonder at the comedy of errors that is Ranger in his pursuit of his mate.

My First Swag!!!

2011-02-02T18:26:00.000-08:00

Hey, hey, hey! I made my first swag! I'm soooo excited. I also had some help from Drea Becraft! Wow, can that girl make some hot stuff! If you aren't familiar with Drea, check her out:

http://dreabecraft.wordpress.com/upcoming-contests/

Oh! And if you're anything like me, you're probably asking, what's swag?? Well, let me tell you!! Bookmarks, calendars, T-shirts, mugs, all that fun stuff. I had a blast. With Drea's help -- she's so talented -- I felt a bit more confident and went on Vistaprint and had a blast all morning. Okay, so I was also stalled on Golden's Rule, and trying to keep my mind off the issues with that twisted manuscript, but still! I had fun and learned a new program, so that's cool.

Now, here's the scoop! I created some nice calendar magnets, cause, well, why would you all want postcards? LOL. I also made a few pens, and some stickers. All that went off to my lovely editor and chief, Jill Noble. She's going to be giving away swag, but more important?? A Kindle!!! How cool is that? So, below you'll find the link, follow it, obey the rules, and enter for a chance for several prizes!!! My swag is up too....lol, just in case you are like, ho-hum on the Kindle!

Here's the link:

http://www.bsfurl.com/9EOg/S

Wow. I really am touched by this review!

2011-01-24T16:25:00.000-08:00

Today, Midnight Star received a five star review at Night Owl Reviews. I can't even begin to say how truly touched I was by this reviewers words. At a time in my life when my day job is in jeopardy, and my life is under a great deal of pressure -- who isn't, right? -- words like these are like a blast of pure encouragement in a time when I struggle to find my way. Thank you! And please follow the below link to read what Night Owl Reviewer Cecile, had to say about Midnight Star.

Midnight Star Review

hugs,

billi jean

Second Review: Sin Undone by Larissa Ione

2011-01-22T05:50:00.000-08:00

Sin Undone by Larissa Ione

My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Okay, I know, I give a lot of four star reviews, but there's a method to that....I really don't have a lot of time to read -- so I pick authors I love, love, love. Larissa is one! I waited quite a while to read her latest, work, life, my own writing got in the way, to be honest, but-- what a treat. An absolutely enjoyable, take me out of my world treat. Loved it.

So, what did I love about it? The dynamics.

Sin, with her guilt and fear, just hit me hard. Okay, I even cried a bit-- not horribly so -- if you know me, you know I HATE crying reading a book, but this was, oh so happy tears, not "I'm hunting Larissa down and doing a pile drive" tears. :) Sin comes around 100% from being scared/tough to being right there with herself, and happy about it too.

Her man? Conall. Oh my. Can Larissa draw a picture of the alpha male and hit you with it. Whew. He's hot, he's foolishly full of himself (which Sin just happens to be able to help him with...) and then he realizes his mistakes- owns them and does everything he can to make up for them. Everything. Wow. Such an awesome guy. My favorite part about him? We know right off he's a good guy, from the very beginning of the book, and bam, does he follow through.

As always the romance is on. It's twists and turns you inside out, but Larissa is an author who has you digging your nails in to keep up with the pace of her ride and boy does she give you a ride. loved, loved, loved this book. It's sitting on my alter...cough, cough...shelf of books nestled up to all her other wonderful reads.

:) billi jean

View all my reviews

Anchored Reviewed

2011-01-14T18:07:00.000-08:00

This week, I read a new release by Rachel Haimowitz, Anchored. Anchored was, if you know what I like to read (sorta soft romance, always a HEA, or a HFN ending, and so on -- not BDSM, if you get my meaning), outside of my comfort zone.

That being said, I opened up Anchored with some (a lot) of trepidation. I knew this was a slave race, which meant masters. Rachel had also warned me Anchored had a rape scene. So. Yeah, I was a bit hesitant, but I had also visited Rachel's website and found myself intrigued by her world.

From the first page of Anchored, I was hooked. Not just hooked, but I sat at my table, not moving for so long my leg fell asleep. So, yeah, I was hooked. Rachel creates a world where there are slaves and masters. Masters have complete control over slaves from birth. Yet in this world, slaves work side by side with freemen/women. Slaves work not just as workers in fields, or butlers, maids and so on, but they are television reports, construction workers and so on.

Into this world, Rachel takes a person, Daniel a slave that works as a television reporter, and lets you inside his deepest fears, the deepest level of who he is, while he begins to discover it as well. Daniel doesn't just discover who he is, but he begins to fall inward – not apart so much, but inward to pull on his inner most self to gain the strength to survive the torture he is forced to endure.

And, I have to be clear here, he is tortured. The rape scene is not pretty, nor is it completely in your face. Daniels thoughts, his inner turmoil and coping mechanisms, were as intense as the actual violence.

Rachel managed to lead me through the minefield of pain and fear Daniel experienced without leaving me, or Daniel, permanently damaged by the journey. I was swept up in Daniel's story. I had to understand what would happen to his world, the world of Daniel, a slave to people who owned him so completely they could beat him, rape him, and lease him out to others who would then also have the same powers over him.

But when Daniel is leased out, it's not to some monster, who would then abuse him, but to a man who was fascinated with him, wanted him, desired him, but wanted Daniel to want him as well. His new master would not take him, he'd not force Daniel to do what he desires, he wants Daniel to want him.

The tension Rachel weaves is intense. The world she created intriguing. When I finally moved from my kitchen table having read Anchored in one sitting, I was left with even more questions than before I started! I hope she writes more books to follow this one so I can find out even more about her world.

For instance, I never did find out what made a slave, a slave, and a master, a master. Were they born into it? I suppose so, but how did this start? When did slaves become slaves and who decided, like historically, who was a slave and who was a master? Was it for life? Was there a way out? What was the reasoning behind who became slaves and who wasn't?

If you want to read something that makes you think of life, the strength we all have to face our fears and survive our worst nightmares, then this is a read for you. I highly recommend Anchored not only for this reason, but because the unique world Rachel has so carefully created.

To learn more about Rachel's world, and to have a chance at winning some cool prizes, follow this link:

http://rachel-haimowitz.blogspot.com/p/blog-tour.html

Rachel will also be giving away two gifts here, so leave her a comment, or question, and a the end of the day, we'll pick two lucky winners!

As always, thank you for stopping by!

Billi Jean

Rachel Haimowitz and Anchored

2011-01-13T12:03:00.000-08:00

Well one way for me to kick off the new year was to begin reviewing a book a month. This month, I've had the pleasure of reading a new work by Rachel Haimowitz. Rachel is a fellow Noble Romance author and to kick off her January 17th release date she is offering all sorts of yummy prizes! Even here on my very modest little blog!

Here is her link so you can go and check out all her goodies before hand: http://rachel-haimowitz.blogspot.com/p/blog-tour.html

Rachel can also be found at: http://www.goodreads.com/book/show/9993763-anchored

Please stop by Saturday, January 15th to read my review, interact with Rachel, and for your chance to win a few cool prizes!

As always, thank you for stopping by and we'll talk more on Saturday - I hope!

Billi Jean

Keeping up the Pace!

2011-01-05T07:50:00.000-08:00

This year I made a pact with myself to increase me 'availability' on the web. Increase my web presence.

So far? Whew! LOL. But really? It's been great.

I was already on Goodreads, and I simply had to take the step to make my profile an author profile. I did that and I have to say I like the site a lot. I love to read, as well as write, so I fit right in. :)

Today I joined Bitten By Books Blood Bank! I felt a bit like I'd entered a Dr. Suess gone to the Dark Side...lol, but I am liking their group as well! The blog, Bitten By Books, is a favorite of mine, so I'm glad to join a group to talk about writing/ and reading.

I'm do a review this month as well. Rachel Haimowitz, a fellow Noble Romance Author, has provided me with a copy of Anchored, Belonging Book One. I'm actually pretty excited about this. I've not read Rachel's work before but her website: http://rachel-haimowitz.blogspot.com/p/blog-tour.html?zx=9b366148750221b0 has really gotten me excited about her book.

I might also start up a 'once a month' book review -- with or without interviews of the author. Nothing too dramatic, just baby steps, because, well, I have to write too!

And speaking of that, Dark Moon Rising is coming along really well. I hope to have the second novel in my Sisters of the Moon sent off to Noble for review sometime in early February. :) Samantha and Derrick, the two very volatile main characters are still a bit miffed at me for going after Midnight Star, but well, they'll have to deal.

Something else new this month? I'm posting little teasers from Dark Moon Rising. Look for those coming up this week and continuing each month as well.

So, that's what I've been up to. Below is a few links where you can find me.

hugs,
billi jean

http://groups.yahoo.com/group/Heat_Wave_Readers
http://www.goodreads.com/book/show/9661364-midnight-star
http://nobleauthors.blogspot.com
http://www.facebook.com/#!/billijeanJD
http://twitter.com/Billi_Jean2
http://bittenbybooks.ning.com/
http://groups.yahoo.com/group/wicked_writers/?yguid=382286059

Happy Holidays!

2010-12-21T10:07:00.000-08:00

Well, I hope everyone is set and ready for the Holidays. It used to be a 'season' for me. I used to bake, cook, entertain, join in on the fun of caroling, go to church and help organize, invest my time, money and labor in cookies, bars and homemade breads galor, but now? *sigh* I just can't find the time!

Is it just me? Are the holidays just a let down for you, too? I try hard not to let myself get tug me into the commercialization of the Christmas Season, but with two children? That can be hard. And as a single mom? Knowing you can't get your children what they really want -- not everything they want -- I never do that -- but what they are hoping for? Wow, that can be hard. Thankfully, I have wonderful children, easily the best ever, who don't really ask for too much, or like my daughter ask for EVERYTHING, so buying a few of those 'must-haves' becomes easier.

But as the season progresses, and days off slowly crawl to a reality -- I do find myself stepping back and trying to enjoy this time. My five year old -- mini-me -- helps a great deal. The sparkle, newness and just fun of the season practically resonates off her. How can I not join in? It's impossible to not see that fun and not end up giggling with her over the kittens trying their hardest to sneak attack the Christmas lights on the tree. Or make mounds of Gingerbread men and women (cats and dogs, too) with her to give out to everyone we know! Even my teenager begins to get in the spirit of Christmas with her 'stage whispers' over what he has wrapped under the tree. :) Or decorating his gingerbread 'women' with some amazing cleavage!

I might be slow to build up the energy to enjoy this holiday season but, when the morning arrives, crisp and new, I'll be thankful for this time, this little tradition of Christmas I share with my family. I hope you do as well.

Hugs to you all, and wishing you a very, very happy New Year.

National Novel Writing Month: Winner?

2010-11-29T07:27:00.000-08:00

This month I entered the National Novel Writing Month. The object is to write 50,000 words in one month. Words meaning, write a story/novel in one month. For me, the wordy author I am, this seemed like a challenge! I mean, not only would I have to work on a story I haven't even started, so WRITE (adding a smiling face here) for the first time in what felt like eons -- I've been editing several manuscripts forever! -- but I'd have to write an entire book from beginning to end in 50,000 words. I usually take up double that if not more in telling my stories! So, wow, this sounded fun.

I picked a story I've been tossing around, with dread, for a few years. This story is one that really touches my heart. The heroine, Tabithia is a witch with issues. Deep, emotional issues that really made writing her love story with Aeros, a no nonsense, tougher than nails Spartan, difficult for me. Tabithia first makes an appearance in Dark Moon Rising where she aids Samantha on her hunt for Samantha's lost sister. Tab also has a small role in Dark Edge of Nowhere when she competes in the Ultimate Magic Competition against a half witch, half vampire named Allie. Tab also has a part in her aunts stories -- still to be completed, and she might show up in a few other novels further down the line. All in all? She's a favorite and I wanted, needed actually, to do her right. That meant writing her story so everyone who met her, would love her!

So, why the hell did I pick HER story for this 50,000 words in one month competition? I have no idea, but man, did it work.

You see, when I began writing her story, I thought, okay, I can do this, simple, first scene, start -- just get the word count up! I did. I sat down and wrote -it was almost magical! Once I took the pressure of 'getting it just right' off my plate, and 'just getting the word count up' I couldn't keep my fingers typing fast enough. Scene after scene just flew to the pages. I went on and on without a break, so much so my family was like, 'what the heck?' and my butt started to hurt -- I kid you not! But, interestingly enough, the hardest part of my nano write and her story? The sex scenes.....and that makes sense giving Tabithia's past -- she was taken as a child and harmed -- I'll let you read the story before I spill all her secrets -- but needless to say, I took a lot of time working her scenes with Aeros. But in the end? I not only completed -- almost -- a story at 50K, but I learned a great deal about keeping my pace going, ignoring my doubts and going with the flow, and just enjoying my creative juice as I worked the scenes out on my computer.

Now that I've finished, I have to say, it was fun! It was hard. It was demanding. It was interesting. At times it felt impossible. But most of all? It was enlightening. I learned a great deal about my own writing style working this way. Focusing on the word count, the scenes as they develop and unfold in my head and getting them down was a huge jump for me as a writer. Hopefully a good jump. :) I liked it, though, and I might even mimic the nano experience with my other stories still to be written.....whenever I finish my edits on the ones I've already written!! lol

Anyways, I hope next year some of you will take the nano challenge as a personal challenge -- a learning experience - and write something you've always wanted -- in less than a month! Best of luck to you all,

billi jean

First Review in for Midnight Star

2010-11-26T16:50:00.000-08:00

Yep, I'm happy dancing! My first review. It seems amazing to think last year at this time I thought I might never actually get a book published and now? I have my first review.

And it's from one of my favorite review sites. Coffee Time Romance has convinced me to purchase many of the books I own from new authors. I hope someone else learns of my work the same way and also chooses me as a new author.

http://coffeetimeromance.com/BookReviews/midnightstarsistersofhtemoonbybillijean.html

Happy Holidays everyone!!!

Break Ups

2010-10-29T05:34:00.000-07:00

Break Ups. Interesting topic you might say for a Romance Writer. (I still get a giggle when I write that or say to someone, "Oh, yeah, you didn't know? My book was published last month..." Insert big grin!) But! I think, from my point of view of course, that life's ups and downs make for good reads. If used sparingly. I am one of those romantic romance writers that REQUIRES a happy ending. Give me a tear jerker that ends with more tears and I might hunt you down and throw your book at you. At the least your book will end up thrashed against my wall...or out of the house! Gasp, I know. But, anyway. I like "Happy Endings." If you're in some of the groups I try to haunt, Write Minded Reader, Wicked Writers, International Heat, I have been the one raising my hand and waving, "I read the endings...." lol, well, it's true. I like happy endings in my fantasy world and reading is a fantasy world for me. So....happy endings a must!

Now why is easy. Life has not had that happy ending yet. Actually, I've had more of the tears and heartache than happy. But, as I get older, *sigh* I am getting better at spotting a heartache waiting to happen. But....sometimes I still take up the challenge/offer/whatever and, yeah, end up heartbroken. Interestingly enough, I am one of those people that give 'chances' or 'just one more try' to a guy. They don't last forever, thank you god, but I do it, if I am invested enough. Add another *sigh* in here. The latest guy threw me for a loop. Three tries. Three chances and he is OUT. But you know, as people, we try to understand other people...so, you start wondering why this? Why then, this? Why was he so great here, but then not the next day? Why? Why? Why? Well, thinking about this man, I discussed him with a friend and viola! She told me I had to read this book. So, I read a bit on Amazon and ordered it. Amazing.

The Object of My Affection Is in My Reflection: Coping with Narcissists

Really. I mean, really. I thought he was vain, a bit into himself, selfish, not a decent person...oh I could go on and on...but he was also sweet, funny, sexy, interesting, and well, my type otherwise. (why would I go back for more if he wasn't??) LOL, so come to find out I am not THAT nuts. The guy is a wicked Narcissist. He may not have the disorder, and really, do I care? He's done. I've flipped that switch. But, needless to say, I felt somewhat...better? I mean, come on, I'm a grown woman, I shouldn't have to delete his contact, block his IMs and his phone calls just to not be drawn in again. But that's the thing with people like this, they are amazing at drawing you back in. I just won't be drawn, if you get my gist.

So, what the hell does this have to do with Reading, Writing, and Romance? Well, reading, you might find the book interesting, and it goes over a lot of very interesting situations. So, that's reading. Writing? Well.....add on Romance, and you have me working on my fifth book in the Sisters of the Moon series. Obviously this book will be a tear jerker, and no, the hero will not be a narcissist. lol, but the heroine will hit that point where the switch is flipped so to speak. And being a witch? She won't use the Internet and technology to block him....she has a few other powers to draw from. But will he, the handsome Agni, the hottie Fire Demon catch her before she throws that last spell and ends their lives before they really begin? Well, if I tell you that, you'd not have to read it....lol!

Has anyone else hit this point? Where the switch is flipped and they can see past the pain and just let it go? Or do any of you know people at work, at home (I hope not!) that suffer from or are narcissists? I have to admit I knew nothing about the disorder, and really thought the word was simply used to describe vain people....Greek Mythology 101 and all...

To everyone! Happy Friday and I hope you're Halloweens are full of fun! Thanks for reading.

hugs,

billi jean

Midnight Star

2010-09-08T07:19:00.000-07:00

Midnight Star by Billi Jean. Coming to Noble Romance Press on 9/13/2010.

Ranger is a werewolf, a Lykae with a problem. He's found his one true mate, the only female who can complete him. Only trouble is, he's denied his instinct to claim her. Now his mate hates him as much as she believes he hates her. He will have to risk both their lives to finally prove to his stubborn vampire he loves her.

Star is a half breed vampire with a past of not being accepted because of her mixed blood. Ranger is just one more example of how much she doesn't fit into the immortal world no matter how much she tries to fool herself into believing otherwise. She's a strong female, a fighter, but when it comes to the opinions of others, she has no defenses. Why fight what she knows is true? She is a half breed, less than those around her. She has a home, friends and females she loves like family. Only trouble is, her family is now related to the mangy wolf man that hates her.

Monday Madness

2010-07-19T18:49:00.000-07:00

Okay, for something new, I thought it might be fun to ask for a little feedback on "Horrible Monday" stories. We all have bad days, but why do so many start on Monday? I think it's just so we either have a horrible rest of the week trying to recover from Monday. Or, maybe it's to make the rest of the week seem so much better!

Anyone have a story about a bad day, Monday or otherwise? Feel free to vent! I'll check back often and maybe even share my horrible day, with some editing so I don't lose my day job.....

Thank you for stopping by!

billi jean

Going, going, gone! Sold: Midnight Star

2010-06-29T06:28:00.000-07:00

I haven't blogged in such a long time. Life. It can drag you off course and throw you sideways all at once. Or simply crumble little by little until you're all alone, standing there, wondering where you are, where your friends are, and what you did with those dreams.

For me, it was the slow spin into just trying to get through the day, with a few upper cuts along the way to keep me on my toes. I can't say selling my first manuscript will get me out of my daily grind, but it has brought me hope.

Hope dies last of all. A friend from one of my yahoo groups made a signature line with those words in it for me over six months ago. I wonder now, why I forgot that...I'm smiling as I write, because, well, when you are in the trenches, it's hard to see the sunrise. But I dug myself out, kept looking for it and found it again.

Midnight Star was written with some issues. First, it was third in a series. Second, I lost the flash drive right after I connected two major sections of the story. I'd only saved it on the drive, so the only copy I had? Was the older version without all the brilliant connections my head drew for my fingers to type.

I freaked. I'll admit it. I lost it. I mean, come on. The house is only so big. I know, I know, the flash drives are small. I should have backed it up. (I do now) I know, believe me, I know. I took it hard. The loss wasn't something I could just shrug off. I mean, I'd spent nights, lots of nights, up until 2 am working on this baby only to get up and go to my 9 to 5 every day, trying to make my life work while balancing this dream of becoming an author. I let the manuscript go. I couldn't re-write over a hundred pages. I couldn't! So, I went back to working on what I've dubbed, 'my sister trouble.' You see, Midnight Star is a stand alone, but two sisters have stories prior to hers, not that they are linked necessarily, but she is first introduced in those stories. So, I worked on both for a few months, cleaning them up, trying to solve an issue I had with both of them and did manage to come up with some fixes....until one day....

I have a mini me, her name is Caileigh and she's the blue tongued wonder on my site. Well, at just four, she was full of fun and adventure, let me tell you. But a kleptomaniac ? I had no idea. Until I went on a cleaning spree in the pantry -- her toy storage/play area. Well....needless to say, I like to organize. So, I get out all her things, start organizing the legos with the legos, crayons with the paper and art supplies, her toy pirate chest I open cause who knows what's in there. Well....I open one section, there's another box, open that, there's another, inside that? Under a silk scarf and a fake pearl necklace? My flash drive!!!

To say I was excited would be like saying when Gena Showalter emailed me back was sorta cool. Not!!! I flipped, again. But in a happy dance sorta way. You see, I knew from the first moment I started writing about Star, a vampire with attitude and a soft heart and her mate, Ranger, a tricky werewolf with too much pride, that this story had IT. Their love story is one that not only touched my heart, but developed into characters I'd like to sit down and have a cup of joe with. They spoke to me, and when that happens something wonderful happens. I write!

So, Midnight Star has had a long journey, even now I am doing some final edits in the hopes it releases toward the end of August, but she's still beautiful and I think worth the struggle. The journey is still going strong for me. My hope is with my entrance into the world of published books, I can keep my eyes up and open, ready to see my dreams come true.

Thank you all for reading!

hugs, billi jean

How to Keep Up?

2009-11-20T17:25:00.000-08:00

Hey everyone! Well, I have a question for you all this week (uhm...month?). How do you keep up with all the websites, blogs, and groups you belong to?

I'm struggling here! Drowning in hundreds of emails! I won't even go into my google reader and how many blogs I've been missing!

I've gotten a request for a full for one of my favorite manuscripts and have discovered just how little time I actually have. I mean, wow! I have been editing my butt off making this baby sparkle as best I can before send off, but my emails? What? What are those!? My groups? Sniffle, sniffle! I can't even begin to read all my emails! I love my yahoo groups. The women and men on them have become close friends and I miss them...but when do you find time to read all those emails and keep up with a full time job and full time writing project?

So, my question is for you organized peeps out there! How in the heck do you do it!?? I know I'm not alone in this struggle to make it all work, so -- how do you find time to keep up with all your commitments? Any pointers? Short cuts? Suggestions on how to remain sane and still get to chat with my online friends?

Hugs! billi jean (and in case you're on one of my yahoo groups -- miss you!!!)

What Makes a Good Read?

2009-10-17T17:05:00.000-07:00

Happy Saturday! Or maybe it's Sunday down under, so Happy Sunday!

I was wondering what makes a good read? Several of the yahoo groups I belong to have been discussing this topic this week. For instance, Harry Potter and the Twilight Series...some thought life wasn't complete without these books.

I have to be honest, I'm kinda of, 'eh, well, whatever' about them. I liked the first Harry Potter book, can't remember the second, not sure if I made it to the third. I loved Twilght, but the second book? Forget it. No way Jose. And then, no way to the rest of them. I have too many good reads to try another from an author that let me down so badly with book two. I've heard book three and on are worth it, they're great, awesome, must reads, but I'm still like, nah, not right now. (Billi speak, for no way Jose!)

But isn't it odd? I mean, why is it that some of us love some books, even the authors and will read the authors even when a book or even two might not be so great, and others of us are like, oh gag, that was horrible! I know we each have our own hopes and dreams, pasts and presents that we take in with us when we read, your kink is yours, mine is mine type of thing, but is there more? Is there something that we can all agree makes a book a GOOD read? A real good read?

I am a die hard fan of Kresley Cole. The woman walks on writing water. I swear. Now, her latest book, Deep Kiss of Winter? Well, the best I can say was that it took me out of my world for a while and love her writing style. The worst? It just didn't hit it. It was just a tad bit too short of the 'awesome, love, love it' mark. Will I read her next book? Damn skippy I will. Why? Because of all her books, this is the first I felt was so-so. If it had been her second book, would she be on my 'pre-order' list? I wonder.

So, what makes a good book? Is it the seamless plot? The world they create? The story? The characters? Or is it the whole package?

I'd love to hear what you think. I have my own ideas -- imagine that!-- but I wonder what the rest of you think?

Keep on reading and writing!

Billi Jean