Global Orgasm?

This gave me a big laugh so I thought I'd share. :)
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

Any way you scream it, one group hopes you'll be having an orgasm in the name of world peace this Friday at 6:08 GMT.

At the exact moment of the winter solstice, the world is urged to get busy at the second annual Global Orgasm for World Peace.

Click here to visit the Web site.

People across the world — but especially in countries with "weapons of mass destruction and places where violence is used in place of medication" — are being asked to synchronize their orgasms, according to the group's Web site.

This group session of sexual healing, aka The Big O, is designed to be an "instantaneous surge of human biological, mental and spiritual energy" that organizers hope will reduce levels of violence, hatred and fear around the world during this, the longest night of the year.

Global Orgasm is the brain child of Donna Sheehan and Paul Reffell, co-founders of the anti-war organization Baring Witness, a group of activists who strip to make public peace displays with their naked bodies.

I'M A BRAVA FINALIST!

OMG! I got the news early this morning! I'm a FINALIST in the Brava Novella Contest! I'm so excited.... bouncing in the seat, then out of the seat, then all over the room. The novella, Zeven Ways to Kill Your Lover is about two lovers brought back together under less than pretty conditions.

They’d hired an assassin to hunt her down and silence her forever. The only problem is their hired killer likes her better. Now Zeven and Harley are going to take on the employer and find freedom together...if their dark past will let them live long enough to work out the details.

Like so many others, I've been not so patiently waiting for the weekly announcements to come out. I had all the appropriate writer angst... Was mine good enough? Was it what they would look for? Would I get it finished in time? Would it matter? Then as each other finalist was announced, I compared mine and worried some more. All the while still working on this and other stories.

I did NANO while waiting and won. :) I completed the forth Anom'tan book, Walking Death's Edge as well as my Vampire Oracle novella titled LOVE. I'm very happy with how both of these books turned out. I also worked on the third Eagle Clan novel, Journey. AND I completed my contest entry, Zeven Ways to Kill Your Lover.

Yep I kept busy. :)

Now in between excited dancing... I need to get back to editing all three books. :)

Shannon

New review for Blood Reign from TRS!

Tascryn: Blood Reign
L. Shannon
Paranormal romance
Available from Cobblestone Press
ISBN: 9781600880933
January 2007

Sadrina and Pahele have a “complicated” past. Sadrina was held prisoner for 4000 years partially at the hands of Pahele. Later, he aids in her rescue at great detriment to himself and his happiness. Now, Sadrina has returned to beg a favor of him -- to save her beloved son. Pahele is happy to give her everything she desires but this comes at a steep price for Pahele wants Sadrina to remain by his side as his Queen and his mate.

L. Shannon’s Blood Reign is a captivating story from start to finish. To say that this cast of characters is interesting is to vastly understate how amazing they really were. I admired Sadrina for her courage in the face of the challenges that confronted her. Throughout the book, she really comes into her own especially when she had to stand up to the ultimate villainess, Hel. Pahele is ruler of his realm yet he exhibits traits of humility and kindness balanced with his sometimes domineering personality. Pahele and Sadrina’s passion and love thrives after Sadrina forgives Pahele for his part in her imprisonment. Their love making is ardent, tender and soul-shattering.

Though I did not realize it at first, Blood Reign is a sequel to Of Blood and Blessings. I recommend reading both lest you find yourself lost in the cast of characters and events that preceded this book.

Overall rating: 4 hearts
Sensuality rating: Very sensual
Reviewer: Misa Minx
October 15, 2007
The Romance Studio!

~~~~~~ TWO WOLVES INSIDE US ALL ~~~~~~~

One evening an old Cherokee told his grandson about a battle that goes on inside people. He said, "My son, the battle is between two "wolves" inside us all...

One is Evil.

It is anger, envy, jealousy, sorrow, regret, greed, arrogance, self-pity, guilt, resentment, inferiority, lies, false pride, superiority, and ego.

The other is Good.

It is joy, peace, love, hope, serenity, humility, kindness, benevolence, empathy, generosity, truth, compassion and faith.

The grandson thought about it for a minute and then asked his grandfather: "Which wolf wins?"

The old Cherokee simply replied, "The one you feed."

Websurfing Wednesday...oh my!

As some know I have dogs. And with them come all my doggie friends who are just as into dog central events like conformation, obedience and agility. These people tend to love their dogs more than most others can even imagine. They do things like moving to the country so the dogs can have a bigger yard. Or changing jobs so that they have their weekends off for travelling to shows.

They also tend to have rather warped senses of humor... Here is an example that had me laughing hard enough I fell out of my computer chair.

http://www.terrisfunny.com/flash18/doggypeg.swf

NANO update- I'm at 20,000 words. :)

Shannon

I'm blogging at Keyboards On Fire!

Hey everyone, I just wanted to share that I'm blogging today over at Keyboards On Fire. You can find the site at http://keyboardsonfire.blogspot.com/ . I'll be commenting on my thoughts about POV, specifically deep pov.

Thank you to Moira and Samara for the invite.

Shannon
L.Shannon ~ author of dark paranormal romance

A Tribute to our Veterans

I recently had this sent me by email and thought it was well worth sharing.

Here is the original story behind the song http://www.terry-kelly.com/pittance/pittance_en.htm

Here is the video http://www.terry-kelly.com/video.htm
And also more here... http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=KYlrrAWCTRg&eurl=http://

God Bless the Veterans.

Shannon

New Review for Forever Eden!

Title: Forever Eden

Author: L. Shannon

Publisher: Cobblestone Press

Genre: Sci-Fi Futuristic

Publication date: August 2007

ISBN: 978-1-60088-161-9

Pages: 43Series: Shifters

Reviewer: Misa
Rating: 4 kisses

Adam Spotted-Paw has always had the gift of matchmaking. For over 700 years, he has been the one to bring together generations of his people on the peaceful planet of Raxis. In all that time, however, he has not been able to find his own mate – until she crash lands into his Temple and captures his heart.

Independent Rogue Commander, Evelyn Moonchaser has been doing her part to fight in the Galactic Wars which has lasted over 1500 years. She is shot down after recovering something from the enemy that could end the war permanently. Of course, she wasn’t expecting to have such strong feelings towards her rescuer. She thinks he is crazy when he speaks of her being his mate, but Adam would stop at nothing to prove to her that she is indeed the other half of his soul.

Forever Eden is a thrilling, fast-paced sci-fi adventure by an author that I hope to be reading a lot more of in the future. Immediately, I was pulled into this roller coaster ride of a story which has a frenetic pace that never lets up.

The chemistry between Adam and Evelyn is nearly palpable as they get to know each other in a tense situation. There is never any doubt that the hero and heroine will end up together but the author has written the story in such a way that their journey to love and bliss is enjoyable to read without seeming too predictable.

It’s very obvious that Forever Eden takes place in an already established universe of L. Shannon’s creation and for that I felt that some of the plot’s nuances may have been lost on me. Nevertheless, I was extremely impressed by Ms. Shannon’s ability to craft a fully realized novella that feels like a much longer novel for all the action contained within. This is my first time reading a story by this author but rest assured that will be rectified in the very near future.

WOO HOO! Thank you Misa!

L.Shannon

http://www.lshannon.net/ ~ dark paranormal romance

Walk on the dark side of sexy with Tascryn demons at their naughtiest.

Anom'tan 1: Walking with Synn ~ "simply amazing" Coffee Time Romance

Anom'tan 2: Walking in Memories ~ FIVE HEARTS! Love Romances & More

Anom'tan 3: Walking at Sundown ~ coming soon!

Cobblestone Rocks!

Way back in April of 2006 I signed my first contract with Cobblestone Press. You can read about my excitement here. It was a huge leap of faith. I saw this new company that on review looked very promising. After sending of my submission and receiving a fast response, I had a panic attack. That's right, this was my pride and joy...my baby, my first novel.

What if I signed and then everything went wrong?

Luck was with me. Cobblestone Press was every bit was quality as they looked. Although still new to the game and doing things a little different from others I'd worked with, the experience was wonderful. I haven't once regretted signing the contract. Father of the Wolf went on to be an in house best seller and then hit Fictionwise, taking it by storm. Even now almost 6 months after release on Fictionwise, Father continues to be a best seller, currently at number 9 all genre.

Thank you Cobblestone. Thank you Deanna and Sable for making this possible.

Not only have you done right by my first novel but you been just as supportive of my other two novels and 9 (NINE!!) novellas. Without you some of those might never have even been written. :) Thanks to you and Cobblestone I can proudly show off my covers and promote my books everywhere.

Since today is a special day for Deanna I dub it DEANNA DAY! Happy Birthday! May it be wonderful in all ways. * tosses confetti* Yay!! *dances around my computer chair*

Woo hoo! It's Deanna Day! And here's another blog for you to check out... Shelli's Place

Shannon
Proud Cobblestone Press Author

A Rough and Rocky Road

Just as I 'd feared, the new job is kicking my ass. I hit the road with my friend last Thursday, showed Friday, Saturday and Sunday, and then we came back late Sunday night. Okay it wasn't really all that late, but I was exhausted. I even fell asleep during the Steelers game which you know means I was whipped.

You might wonder what about showing dogs can be so tiring? Well our days started between 4 and 5 oclook when we'd potty dogs and drive to the show site. Then we would exercise the dogs again and start grooming them. This would continue until ring time which can be anytime from 9 am to 3pm. Once the regular classes for our breed are done, then we regroom out the specials (champions) assuming they won Best of Breed so that they can compete in the group ring usually between 3 and 5pm. After all the showing is done we relax for a few minutes then potty the dogs again and work on anything that needs improved for the next day. I my case it was trying to teach my puppy to not bounce even if he does love being shown. Poor Teddy just can't help himself. :)

Well, my friend must know what she's doing becuase our first weekend out seemed to be a success. I won the points one day and she won several sets of points and three group placements!

Anyhow... I'm off to do it again this weekend.

As for the effect on my writing scedule, it has been pretty negative. Instead of my usual 2000+ words a day, my numbers for an entired week were about 2500. I had planned to finish both Walking Death's Edge and my Vampire Oracle story this month before starting NANO in November, but now, I feel I will be lucky to finish "Edge". Speaking of which, I need to get in a few words before I start packing...

Shannon

An interesting new path...

As most writers know, making a living as a novelist isn't easy. I have been doing it since March of 2006. So for a year and a half those of you buying my books have been paying my bills. THANK YOU!

I love the life of a writer and feel privileged to have the chance to step out of the rat race. That's not to say it isn't hard work. It is. It's not uncommon for me to put in 16 hours at the computer. But doing something that I love makes it all worth while.

Unfortunately, my poor van had a very rough couple months and the cost of keeping it healthy has eaten up my funds. Which means that at least for a short time I will have to supplement my writing income by other means. In this case the opportunity that arose was helping out a friend who shows dogs professionally. That's right, her entire living is made doing what she loves. Something I understand. I've been showing dogs (as a hobby) for about 25 years now so I'm hoping this more professional role will not bring too many surprises. In fact I'm looking forward to the travel and busy routine as a wonderful change of pace.

The down side is that I will be traveling and uber busy for 3 to 6 days out of most every week. I don't yet know what this will mean for the writing. I will certainly still be writing but I may be doing a lot less of it as well as be offline for most of my time.

Sigh. With some serious luck, I will be back to my homebody life soon. I certainly hope so anyhow.

Shannon

RRTE gives Walking with Synn multiple O's!!

Woo Hoo! RRTE reviewed Walking with Synn...


WALKING WITH SYNN - L. Shannon
Anom’tan, Book 1
ISBN: 978-1-60088-154-1
July 2007
Erotic Paranormal Romance - ménage including F/F interaction
RRTE Rating: Multiple O’s

Brooklyn, New York - Present day

Sayvor and his twin brother Flayvor, are Synn demons. They work in the daylight helping the souls of mortals to traverse the path home to the Creator. But walking in daylight is only possible with a partner, a twin or a mate, and someone has just brutally separated Sayvor from his twin. Sayvor’s memory of the attack is blurred and he’s becoming weaker the longer he’s away from Flayvor. Dr. Sasha Washington has been hired to help Sayvor regain his memories and strength. Sasha always knew that choosing to be a Paranormal Psychologist would put her in some very unusual situations, but she never expected that she’d need to have sex with one of her patients to save his life. However there’s just something about Sayvor that makes everything feel right, so much so that Sasha is beginning to wonder how she could ever bear to leave him. Hot and steamy don’t even begin to describe this book, adding to the incredible sex scenes is the mystery of Flayvor’s kidnapping and characters who are highly unusual making this an unbeatable read. Don’t miss WALKING WITH SYNN. The next story in the series, WALKING IN MEMORIES, looks to be just as intriguing.

Lori Ann - 10/8/07

Thank you Lori Ann! What a wonderful review! I'm all smiles :D

Tuesday Testing and Journeyman...

You Are 60% Boyish and 40% Girlish

You are pretty evenly split down the middle - a total eunuch. Okay, kidding about the eunuch part. But you do get along with both sexes. You reject traditional gender roles. However, you don't actively fight them. You're just you. You don't try to be what people expect you to be.

How Boyish or Girlish Are You?

Okay then... I actually thought this quiz was pretty accurate. No I'm not hung. I am a gal, but when it comes to girl things and boy things, to be honest boys have more fun and are usually a lot easier to just hang out with. Had to laugh at one of the questions... it asked if my next car would be picked for power or being cute. I drive a minivan now and love it because I can haul shit and it goes like crazy. Nice big motor and good traction in winter.

Hubby drives a little station wagon, lol.

A short update: I'm over 10,000 words into Walking Death's Edge and it is going great. One hint, they are not what I expected. The whole series is surprising me...in a good way.

Tonight I watched Heroes and Journeyman. I've always been a fan of Heroes. I just can't help myself. I watched the first Journeyman just because it came on after Heroes and I used to be a big fan of Quantum Leap. (YAY SCOTT B!) Now, I have to say, I am loving this new series. So much so that I yell at the characters and Dan the hero is starting to actually look cute to me. He didn't have much appeal (to me) at first but now, his personality is hooking me. Yep, I'm loving it. One question though, maybe no one else caught it, but whats up with the missing baby? a couple episodes back, Dan overheard what sounded like his fiance saying she was pregers, but it hasn't been mentioned since. I can't wait to find out more. :)

Shannon

Manhunt Monday

Cuff ME!!! And wow, that hat almost isn't big enough.... wonder if he has ever considered a baseball cap?

SIGH



As brief update... Looks like Changeling Press will be contracting A Snowball's Chance for an upcoming Hot Flash within the Snowbound theme. Here is a little taste of it (unedited)

A Snowball's Chance
erotic m/m paranormal

He was going to die, freeze to death on this bloody mountain. Josh’s teeth chattered. He rubbed his gloved hands together to restore feeling.

The small hole he'd managed to dig through the snow, up to the surface was almost covered over again. A half dozen pokes with his ski pole and the snow gave way, opening up the thin air hole once more. The problem was all he had was one tiny hole and not a prayer of being found.

“Shit, shit, shit.” He was going to die. Josh sank back onto his frozen ass, folding his body to hold the heat as long as he could. He had so many things to regret but his biggest was never settling down. Maybe if I live, I’ll give it a try….

He stood up again, stomping his feet across the small snow cave. It wasn’t going to matter since he wasn’t going to live. “I don’t want to die!” His angry voice cracked as it bounced back and forth in the small space. Some snow broke off one wall reminding him how precarious his shelter was.

“Josh Franklin?” A voice echoed down from above the snow.

Saved? He was saved! “I’m here! I’m Josh Franklin!”

“Back up as far as you can.” The words were quiet, almost as if the guy was whispering.

Josh backed up away from the small air hole, which had begun to shed dustings and small chunks of snow. Then what was falling wasn’t snow at all, but water dripping to the cave floor.

What the hell was the guy thinking? The snow couldn’t be melted. Any second the five plus feet of snow would collapse and crush him and possibly his rescuer too. But it wasn’t snow that came down. It was red and gold light.

Josh used one hand to block the glare even while he squinted to see the man standing at the center of the glow. “I’m being saved by an angel-”

The gorgeous guy snorted. “Fuck that, I’m no angel and you haven’t been good enough to rate an angel anyhow. Only thing you got right is I am here for you.”

***



Watch for A Snowball's Chance coming soon with Changeling Press.

Shannon
http://www.lshannon.net/

Love Romances & More gives Walking in Memories FIVE HEARTS!

WOO HOO! ANOTHER REVIEW!! This one is from Love Romance and More!


Anom'tan, Book 2
WALKING IN MEMORIES
L. Shannon
Cobblestone Press
September 2007
978-1-60088-170-1
Ebook
Paranormal Erotic Romance/Shifter

Rayce and Chayse are twin Anom’tan demons. They are still looking for their missing brother. Their search leads them to Clarice, a witness. When they find her though, they find a woman whose very essence has been robbed, locked away in her mind. She cannot remember anything and she cannot say no. Chayse is captivated by the beautiful woman and in his lust, he almost forgets his mission. His whole priority changes and he is even willing to take the lead, whereas Rayce is usually the leader. Rayce still has to keep him on track. Clarice becomes their sex toy with the ability to heal them both. Chayse needs to overcome his past fears to unlock her mind and they both need to trust Rayce to protect them all. But the biggest challenge is finding love.

This is the second in the Anom’tan series; the first is called Walking With Synn. The story continues with the search for the missing brother and although this is a short story, it’s emotionally intense and will have the reader hoping that the next book in this fabulous series will be out soon! This reviewer enjoyed this story very much. The characters are really well written, and a word of caution. There is a very hot, shower scene so before reading, be prepared. Ms. Shannon has built a very unique world with some very interesting, deep characters. Readers and lovers of the paranormal will certainly enjoy this series so far. Ms. Shannon is a writer to watch. Her stories at Cobblestone Press are a ‘must read’ and are on this reviewer’s auto-watch for list

Thank you, Valerie!!

TRS Review for Walking in Memories

I just found this new review from The Romance Studio for Anom'tan 2: Walking in Memories. Read the whole review at the romance studio

Walking In Memories
L. Shannon
Paranormal erotic romance
Available from Cobblestone Press
ISBN: 978-1-60088-170-1
September 2007

Chayse and Rayce go to Clarice because she witnessed the kidnapping of their brother, Flayvor. When they find her, they realize she is just as much a victim since somebody has psychically raped her - drained her memories and altered her personality. They know they have to get into her mind to restore her memories and to do that they must take her blood. They didn’t count on how precious she would become to them and their future.

This is the second installment of the Anom’Tan series and it moves very quickly as Chayse and Rayce are desperately trying to find their brother. Their attraction to Clarice is immediate and endearing as they contemplate a future with her. I was hoping this book would give us some closure on the subject of Flayvor and Sayvor (from Walking with Synn), however, Walking in Memories tells us who kidnapped him but not where he is or how to get him back. Hopefully the next installment will be released soon. This book was dedicated to the romance between Clarice, Chayse and Rayce but Sayvor and Sasha appear briefly as well as Wyk.

Overall rating: 4 hearts!
Sensuality rating: Very sensual
Reviewer: Lisa Freeman
October 9, 2007

I'm smiling over the good review. Every review is a special present. Sometimes like Christmas where I have a bunch sent to me with pretty paper and all and others like this one were like an Easter egg hunt where I found this one through google. :)

Although TRS lists this book as ver sensual, be warned it does contain m/f/m menage.

As a bit of an aside for those following this series, Flayvor will be found. Please don't be disappointed but he won't be found until book 4: Walking Death's Edge. As Dàn from the Eagle Clan would say, "have patience, there is a reason for everything". Until then, know that book three is complete and I am busily writing 4 now.

Happy reading!

Shannon
http://www.lshannon.net/

Shadow of the Day by Linkin Park

Sometimes a song will just grab me and touch something deep inside. Whatever the specific reaction it brings out, usually it is from the depth of emotion which it inspires. Sometimes that is joy or happiness but more often it is sorrow or desperation. Don't get me wrong, I am not filled with angst over any particularly horrible events in my life. All in all I have a good life and have very few major complaints. But something inside me understands suffering and pain. But I digress.

Today I wanted to share a song by Linkin Park titled The Shadow of the Day. I can't tell you how often I've heard this one on the radio but I will say that everytime I do, I am struck by the beauty and saddness of it. More often than not I find myself wiping tears away. Maybe I'm just a sap, or maybe this is a fantastic song. :) You be the judge.

The Shadow of the Day

by Linkin Park

I close both locks below the window

I close both blinds and turn away

Sometimes solutions aren't so simple

Sometimes good bye's the only away

[Chorus]

And the sun will set for you

The sun will set for you

And the shadow of the day

Will embrace the world in grey

And the sun will set for you

[End Chorus]

And cards and flowers on your window

Your friends all plead for you to stay

Sometimes beginnings aren't so simple

Sometimes good bye's the only way

[Chorus]

And the sun will set for you

The sun will set for you

And the shadow of the day

Will embrace the world in grey

And the sun will set for you

And the shadow of the day

Will embrace the world in grey

And the sun will set for you

And the shadow of the day

Will embrace the world in grey

And the sun will set for you

[End Chorus]

Manhunt Monday...and what I'm working on

Don't run! I won't hurt you...much.

Thought this fellow was just perfect for this particular update. :) As it turns out, I completed and submitted Anom'tan 3: Walking at Sundown to Cobblestone Press yesterday. YAY! *happy dancing* And now I'm on to the next one, working on the final book of the series, Anom'tan 4: Walking Death's Edge. My goal is to complete and submit Edge by the end of the month.

And don't forget, November is NANO month! This year I will be using NANO to complete the next Eagle Clan book. So those of you waiting so patiently for the next in that epic will soon be briefly satisfied. :) Also planned for right around the corner is completion of the next Lynx Clan book, Forgotten. Yet another eagerly awaited sequel.

Now you may return to your regularly scheduled drooling... MMMM.... A solid 3 Yumms for this one!

Shannon

L.Shannon ~ www.lshannon.net ~ dark paranormal romance

Walk on the dark side of sexy with Tascryn demons at their naughtiest.

Anom'tan 1: Walking with Synn ~ "simply amazing" Coffee Time Romance

Anom'tan 2: Walking in Memories ~ 9/21/2007 with Cobblestone Press

Anom'tan 3: Walking at Sundown ~ coming soon!

Websurfing Wednesday...a new addiction

As if Dew and chocolate were not enough, now I have www.pogo.com I didn't plan on going there... it's been years since I played any online games and yet here I am sharing the addiction with others in the hope it will diminish my own suffering...lol

Testing Tuesdays and a CONTEST!

Your Halloween Costume Should Be

A Sexy Bunny

What Should You Be For Halloween?

LOL!! I actually have picked out a sexy kitty costume for this year, but dang close! For the record though, I just don't wear a cotton tail well at all. Sigh...

On another note, I've been working on Anom'tan book 3: Walking at Sundown. To celebrate the release of book 2 and my fast approaching completion of book three, I'm holding a contest. :) But don't break out in sweat just yet. This one is easy. To enter all you have to do is reply to this post and share a costum idea from you past or future. Winner will win all four books in this series as well as have their name featured in book 4! Contest will close when book three is released, expected early in 2008. No rush, but don't miss your chance.

Shannon

www.lshannon.net

Manhunt Monday... a soak in the tub, oh yeah!

Such a lovely man to hunt down and look! He isn't even fleeing...yet. (weg) I do love the idea of a hunky man all naked and helpless, relaxing back for a soak... I think I will give Marcus here 3.5 YUMMIES. But don't be too hard on him. I grade men on a vicious curve, LOL. Heck he lost a whole yum just because he has short hair. Sorry babe, I love 'em long.

S

Therapy Thursday - Anything a man can do...

I can do better (or at least do) except pee standing up. I mean, I can do that too, but it ends very badly. I grew up with that mantra taught to me by a strong woman who is the center of my family, my Mom. She's the perfect combination of super capable but never insulted by door holding men. I yearn to be that balanced and perhaps I am.

So yesterday when my Dad was checking out the brake line leak and pinching it off enough to safely get it to the mechanic, he says "This one is easy to get to. Anyone could fix it." He was suggesting that I ask my cousin to do it rather than pay a non family member to do the work. Which is an excellent idea. I would rather give money to family than anyone else. Then I started thinking which can be dangerous.

If anyone can do it, why can't I?

I do most of the maintenance on my van already. It's my baby. Why shouldn't I take care of it? I have a brain. I'm good with problem solving. Don't get me wrong, my Dad does anything that I'm unsure of and looks over anything that could kill me. :) But Dad's never afraid to show me how to do something or suggest that I be self sufficient. Then again, my Dad is perfect anyhow... He wants me to do anything I want to and is willing to do anything I need. Yep, perfect.

Now the question is, will I have the courage to try to fix my own brake line today. I don't yet know the answer. I have the parts and the willingness to try. I think I will. At worst I'm sure I can find some way to use the experience for writing research. I'll let you know how that goes.

Shannon

Websurfing Wednesday and the van of doom...

Perhaps I should save this for Therapy Thursday, but I just had to share my adventures. What started off as a short, 5 mile, trip to the bank ended in me creating new swear words and promising my sweet little Windstar a painful and merciless end. To make a long story, err... a little less long, My van is mostly reliable. It has over 200,000 miles on it so I do cut it some slack, BUT I expect two things; 1 I expect it to go and 2 I expect it to stop. Everything in the middle I'm pretty flexible about. The go part has been good for most out our trips, with a few exceptions which ultimately added to my mechanical knowledge. Such as what and where the starter is and how to hit it with a dolly handle just right. :) As a side note that bit of knowledge has helped at least two men I offered parking lot aid to. Yep, little girlie me to the rescue.

The stopping is where the van and my expectations appear to diverge. I think that now and then stopping would be good. The van disagrees. It must disagree since my brakes have gone out not once, not twice but 6 (SIX) times in the past 2 years.

ohhhhkay... back to cutting a little slack. It has a lot of miles and isn't a new car. Those brake lines are old, all five of them. Whooops. Yep, twice now, new lines have gone. I must just be lucky. Or maybe I should be a stunt driver with all this experience I'm building up.

So yesterday, on the way to the bank, some jackass pulls out right in front of me, and I punch the brakes, and they bottom out with a familiar feel. OH Shit. The I calmly miss the jerkoff and use the last of my brakes to pull into the bank lot and start changing my evening plans. No trip to the monthly dog club meeting. No visit to hubby for some inspiration. New call in to the mechanic about the brakes. Since he's left for the day, no luck there. Then I think about calling for a tow, but dang...its only a few miles and I still have a little brake at the bottom. The cheapskate side wins out and I drive my bad boy home, using the brakes only twice in 5 miles, including my driveway.

Now I need a distraction, something nice and funny to cheer me up. When hubby came down to visit last night (at least I still got my inspiration) his suggestion was... http://www.simpsonizeme.com/ Very funny. :) So I simpsonized the hot guy from Monday's post. You can find the result here. I tried to do my own photo but my timing seems to be off. The site keeps saying it's busy and to try back later. Maybe that can be for another time.

Shannon

Testing Tuesday

You Are 60% Intuitive

Your intuition is often right, and you use it more than you may realize. Your gut feelings are usually a good guide, but you need more to go on when making a decision. You'll often check to see if the facts back up your feelings. And when your intuition is wrong, you work to improve it for the future.

How Intuitive Are You?

Hmm... I always thought I was more intuitive than 60%. :) But maybe I'm not after all...LOL

Shannon

Manhunt Monday

I can't remember who shared this steamy guy with me, but dang... They certainly knew what I'd go for. :) Mmmmm...yummy. I love the hair.

New thoughts...Manhunt Monday

In an effort to be less MIA and a more regular visitor to my own blog... I'm setting a light schedule for myself that I hope visitors will enjoy as well.

Manhunt Monday
Testing Tuesday
Websurfing Wednesday
Therapy (ranting) Thursday
Free for all Friday

Today is Manhunt Monday and in search of perfect men I will head out into the unknown wilds of the internet and will happily stalk my prey... Be back soon with my man.

Shannon

What is RWA thinking?

It took me 2 days to get pissed, but I am there now. I'm ticked off by the PTB at RWA and at myself. You see, I remember several months back seeing information about what they were considering and how to share my thoughts with them. It just so happened that at the time I was tied down with other responsibilities. I didn't send my opinion on the subject.

I am about to do my best on remedying that mistake.

The accepted changes stink. They are an insult to every writer trying to make it in the writing industry. Is that blunt enough for you, PTB? Changing the wording identifying vanity publishers so that it includes e-publishers is exclusionary and harmful to their honest businesses. I have no idea how you justify such a move.

I did hear one person attempt to defend the changes by saying that the new wording will help to protect newbie writers who don't know any better. Damn if that didn't make me see red. Essentially that person, one I like and respect, just called me (ME and every other e-published author!) a moron. Which is exactly what RWA is doing. That was the moment I got pissed.

Up until that moment I really thought there wouldn't be much of a change. After all, many NY publishers and published authors already look down on anything electronic, even though many are now also jumping on that same bandwagon. I figured that the wording was just a little nastiness and it wouldn't affect the real world in any touchable way. That was before this *friend* spoke up and spouted the nonsense out loud. The truth is that writers do look to their national organization for guidance and definitions of what is what in romance writing. And they should. This new wording, which at first might seem harmless and protecting, will tear the nation's romance writers into deeper factions, harming us all.

There is no US and THEM. We are all writers with the same primary goal in mind. We want to tell a story. Some of us want to make money off that story, some hope and dream of make lots of money off that story and some just want the story read and enjoyed. No matter which route an author chooses to take, we are all writers and not one of us is better than any other, no matter where we want to publish or where we succeed in publishing.

So I ask the powers that be at RWA to consider their next decision carefully. Consider how it will affect the greatest majority of your members. That's right, the greatest majority of your members will never see the NY times list. Most will be in the middle. Most will consider e-publishing. Most may already have considered e-publishing. Most may have e-published already. Most of your members, the very people you are supposed to support and encourage may have just taken a blow to the heart.

If you would like to add your voice to mine and others who have an opinion check out this poll - http://www.lshannon.net/RWA-poll.html And pass the word. Let's show RWA the numbers that matter. Let's show them that the writers are willing to speak up. Better yet, let's show them who they are supposed to speak for!

Shannon
www.lshannon.net
Author of dark paranormal romance
PUBLISHED through Cobblestone Press
President of RWA chapter #140
member of RWA (but not proud of that fact at the moment)

Sorry I've been MIA

Just noticed it's been over two months since I posted here. I know I've never been a steady blogger, but usually I do better than that. I promise to do better.

In fact, in the next few weeks I hope to do several posts regarding world building and would welcome your input. That's right, you! Readers, writers and everything in between will be welcome to post.

But first let me do a little updating.
My first m/m romance was released from Cobblestone Press. If you enjoy my world but have never considered m/m, I recommend you give it a try. Let me tell you a little about it.

Surviving Synn
Cobblestone Press
5/11/07
excerpt ~ buy

Blurb: Tarvyn is a Synn demon on the edge. He was sent to earth to do a job he doesn't like and is trapped there until he can recharge his Synn powers through sexual release. Fortunately he found just the man for the job. Captain Bailey is everything Tarvyn wants in a man, but when they are faced with the personal threat of death will Bailey's love be strong enough to save them both?

If that doesn't work for you, at least stop by the Surviving Synn page of my website to see the beautiful desktop image that Dan Skinner did for this book. It is free to download and I can tell you, Dan's idea of Tarvyn the Synn demon is Hot Hot Hot!

enough for now... promise to be back soon. :D
Shannon

Woo Hoo!!! I'm on Fictionwise...again.

Woo Hoo!!! I'm on Fictionwise...again.

Father of the Wolf was released today on Fictionwise! I'm so excited I could...I am skeeeing in joy. You can now find my books at Chippewa, Changeling and Cobblestone AND distributed through Fictionwise, Mobipocket and more coming soon.

Check out my books -> http://www.fictionwise.com/eBooks/LShannoneBooks.htm

Or go directly to the page for Father of the Wolf.
http://www.fictionwise.com/eBooks/eBook45228.htm?cached
Father of the Wolf [Eagle Clan #1] [MultiFormat] eBook by L. Shannon

Regular List Price: $6.99
You Pay: $5.94
Club Price: $5.05

eBook Category: Romance eCataRomance Reviewers' Choice Award Nominee eBook Description: After living apart from the world for over a century, the Eagle Clan must return in search of mates or face certain extinction. Athair leads them to another clan, but is betrayed and attacked, forcing him to accept help from a human veterinarian who he suddenly realizes is exactly the hope they so desperately need. All that remains is escaping a murderous pack, protecting his adopted sons, and convincing Hope that she is strong enough to be his mate as well as a powerful member of the Valafrn clans. eBook Publisher: Cobblestone Press Fictionwise Release Date: April 2007

the Valentine's Day Contest winner is...

LIZ!!!

Congratulations Liz! You won my Valentine's Day contest. YAH! Nall all you have to do is send me your (snail mail) mailing address so I can get the goodies off to you. Stick the info in an email to me at barval1 (at) highvision (dot) net .

Valentine's Day Contest!

It may still be January and around here winter is cold and cruel, but I'm looking forward 2 weeks to when for at least one day, flowers will abound and warmth and love will flow in all directions...

Or some such crap.

Valentine's Day has for me been a day of disturbing horrors. When young (er) I had boyfriends who would attempt to bring that special feeling into the day (in the hopes of getting laid, I'm sure) and now I have a wayward husband who is terrified of the expectations he believes the day has. I think the vast majority of folks miss out on the potential of the holiday. And in the spirit of this belief, I will offer a contest with the focus on putting the positive back in the this one day of romance.

Or not. LOL

To enter the contest... share some Valentine's Day from your past (good bad or other) or make one up that you'd like to have in the future. REPLY TO THIS POST TO BE ENTERED. The winner till be drawn on February 14th and receive my first *Gift of Synn* party set. Despite the name it's not all that naughty but includes lots of little extras to add a little romance to your life.

As an added bonus... If there are 50 or more entries, I will throw in a $20.00 gift certificate to Sexy Vices http://www.sexyvices.com/ ,

I'll update this just as soon as I get pictures of the set uploaded. :) In the meantime, get those stories in and get entered.

Shannon

Don't forget to check out my latest release, Blood Reign, about a couple sexy demons. Maybe I can talk a few of my heroes and heroines into posting their Valentine's Day stories too...

New Release: Blood Reign

New Release: BLOOD REIGN!! (Current mood: giddy )

Hi everyone! I have a new book coming out on Friday! So I thought I'd share a little bit about the book.

Tascryn: Blood Reign
L. Shannon
Genre: Paranormal
Release Date: January 19, 2007

WWW.COBBLESTONE-PRESS.COM

Sadrina is destined to reign as Queen in hell, but she isn't about to be mastered by its current ruler. Pahele can control the demons and the very essence of hell with a mere thought. Yet, he's met his match with the one demon who rules his heart.

Blood Reign is a sequel to OF BLOOD AND BLESSINGS which you can buy at Changeling Press !

EXCERPT from Chapter One

Pahele shuddered as his realm shifted and came into balance once more. The returning balance could only mean one thing.

His queen had returned at last.

"Master?" Sadrina entered the throne room and knelt before him in absolute submission. She was as beautiful as ever. Her sensual presence filled his senses. The mere fact that she knelt before him in the realm she had once called home, told him clearly that she was desperate.

Hell simply wasn't the same without her, but what was it that had finally brought her home? He reined in his physical response and opened his mind to her. As had always been, the connection supplied all that was lacking in his soul. His essence pulsed with power. He couldn't let her leave him again. No matter what brought her back, he would bind her here, to his side.

For a longer excerpt check out...

http://www.lshannon.net/TASCRYN/BloodReign.html

And be sure to stop by the Cobblestone Press Chatroom at 9 pm EST on Friday, January 19, 2007 for their weekly release chat. I'll be there and giving away a free copy of Blood Reign!

aeshlyn avayla
Shannon
http://www.lshannon.net/