Books by Gracie C. McKeever

© 2003 Gracie C. McKeever

In This Issue:

The Pen Is Mightier
New Review: Desert Dreams
PNR Reviews
Awe-Struck E-Books' New Spice Is Nice Page
NOVELBOOKS, INC. ANNOUNCES PRICE ROLLBACKS
NBI Introduces Twofers!
This Issue's Spotlight Site
This Issue's Author in the Spotlight
Work-in-Progress
What I'm Reading/Recommended Reads
Poetry Corner
This Issue's Novel Teaser – "From The Heart"
Quick Tease – "The Little Dragon Without Fire"
This Issue's Newsletter Contest
Giveaways/Good Deals/Shameless Promotions
Odds and Ends

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It's Spring! Finally!

Hope all is well in your neck of the woods, and that you all enjoyed a healthy, happy and safe Mother's Day with your moms, significant others and/or progeny. And if you celebrate in your area, enjoy a happy and safe Memorial Day Weekend!

Caught "X2: X-Men United" premier day (been planning for months…Hugh Jackman Rocks!). Great character development and the special effects go without saying. Good storyline, well executed -- poignant, bittersweet, and funny, sometimes all in the same scene. If you're a fan of the series and/or comic books, you should catch this latest edition of mutant adventures.

Caught "The Matrix: Reloaded" too and all I can say is, I am soooooo glad the next and final episode is only six months away! Great choreography (of the horizontal AND vertical kind), great stunts and visual effects, nice character development, and the romance between Neo and Trinity is center stage right along with the action and adventure (for those romance fans among us). I'll probably have to see it another 2-10 times before I even come close to understanding all the subtle paradox-chicken-or-the-egg conundrums of the storyline, but who cares? I watched the original at least as much (re-watched it again, as a matter of fact, after Reloaded – I know, I'm backwards).

Well, enough of The Matrix and back to the real world of this month's issue of GG….enjoy!
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THE PEN IS MIGHTIER:
http://members.aol.com/RitrsPulse/Pen.html
Has been on hiatus due to uncontrollable circumstances, but look for its return and new postings in the future! In the meantime, take this opportunity to catch up on reviews and short stories that you might have previously missed. Check out my review of Elaine Hopper's "Secrets" under COLUMNS. But don't stop here. There are other book reviews, movie reviews, short stories, novel excerpts, poetry and much more from the other talented authors and staff members at The Pen!

NEW REVIEW
Of DESERT DREAMS "…the reader will find a skillful mix of fantasy, paranormal entities, historical accuracy, and comedic dialogue along with throat tightening suspense.

In this multicultural romance, DESERT DREAMS, Gracie C. McKeever will have the reader believing that soul mates do exist even if they come from another time and a different land. She writes not only about the magic true love may bring, but brings a belief and realism to evil entities that have roamed the earth for eons and the devastation they are made to cause….

Well researched in Islamic art and culture, Gracie C. McKeever develops her characters so the reader walks in their shoes. She has a talent for intense character development; both in her main characters and her minor ones….

True love. Soul mates, strength, and a powerful will to live for and with a love whose intensity is barely matched, Therese and Kane must defeat Ifreet before it destroys all those they love… including each other." Reviewer: Jody Gore is Co-Editor/Owner of W.O.W., Writing for Independents, e-zine – 5/11/03 -- Full review available June 2003 issue http://www.womenonwriting.com

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DESERT DREAMS by Gracie C. McKeever — ISBN (e) 1-931696-10-1 (p) 1-931696-89-6 — Paranormal Djinni Romance available in download (pdf or html) and print (trade paperback), and can be purchased direct from NovelBooks, Inc. at http://www.novelbooksinc.com for $1 off the Retail Price at $14.95 (paperback); $5.50 (download). Also Available from Booksurge.com, Amazon, B&N (brick-and-mortar stores by "special order" through Bowkers, just give the ISBN), Books-A-Million, Walmart.com, and distributed internationally through other major online booksellers.
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PNR REVIEWS:
As promised, check out my recent reviews/reprints, courtesy of ParaNormal Romance Reviews:

A GIFT OF BLOOD – "fast-paced story of loyalty, redemption and self-sacrifice" – http://pnr.bestreviews.com/review11217

THE QUEEN OF DARKNESS – "A memorable tale of redemption and the resiliency of the human spirit" – http://pnr.thebestreviews.com/review11507

MAD ABOUT MAX – "Comical and lovable fairy godmothers finagle makeover and romance" – http://pnr.thebestreviews.com/review11495

A FIND THROUGH TIME – "A romance with a look at history that is passionate and entertaining" – http://pnr.thebestreviews.com/review11493

THE LOVE POTION – "Both comical and sensual with good old fun down in the bayou" – http://pnr.thebestreviews.com/review11494

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NOVELBOOKS, INC. ANNOUNCES PRICE ROLLBACKS:
DOUGLAS, MASSACHUSETTS
Contact: marketing@novelbooksinc.com

NovelBooks, Inc. (NBI) is pleased to announce an across-the-board Retail Price reduction of $2.00 USD per copy for its trade paperback titles. This permanent reduction became effective April 1st, 2003.

“Pricing is a key factor, especially in today’s challenging economic environment,” said Penny Hussey, President & CEO of NBI. “Reducing our prices will make our many excellent titles more accessible to our readers and increase both corporate and author profitability.”

“These price drops represent over 10 percent off our previous retail pricing, making our titles significantly more affordable,” added Anthony Hernandez, Director of Marketing and IT for NBI. “Our decision makes NBI an even stronger competitor in our market space and will help drive future growth. NBI continues to examine ways of reducing our retail pricing and will have some very exciting announcements in the near future.”

NBI INTRODUCES TWOFERS
Just in time for Summer Reading, NovelBooks, Inc.
offers "Twofers!" (2 books 4 $2.00)

Some of NBI's best selling and award-winning books (yes, DESERT DREAMS is one of them!) can be
yours for just 2 for $2.00! Each month we will be offering a different selection, which means you can get some fantastic reading done for a fraction of the regular price! That's good news for readers in this economically tough time.

Click on over to NBI http://www.novelbooksinc.com today and pick up some wonderful stories. You'll be glad you did!

AWE-STRUCK E-BOOKS' NEW SPICE IS NICE ROMANCES
http://www.awe-struck.net/SPICE/spice_titles.html – Are you ready for a bit of harmless "SIN"? Try Awe-Struck's (S)pice (I)s (N)ice titles. Here you'll find links that will take you directly to the description and preview pages. These are great romances...And the authors added a bit of spice in the bedroom, on the beach, or any other place you might make love. The page features those romances that have VERY descriptive bedroom scenes. It doesn't matter if the romance is contemporary or historical or sci fi. What's important is that the love scenes are...well...spicy! FLAMES PAST is there. Check out the page to see what other of your favorite Awe-Struck titles are there.

"As a recent fan and lover of romantica and erotica fiction, I speak from experience when I say I want the steamier side of love scenes between my heroes and heroines – every little silky, smooth, hard, rough, muscular, satiny, gentle, round, curvy, voluptuous, rich vanilla piquant musk evocative detail spelled out for me…" Read the entire article "Keep The Bedroom Door Open, Please", by Gracie C. McKeever, at Spice is Nice http://www.awe-struck.net/SPICE/spice_titles.html

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FLAMES PAST by Gracie C. McKeever — ISBN (e) 1-58749-121-4 (p) 1-58749-257-7 — Contemporary Paranormal Romance available and can be purchased from Awe-Struck E-Books, Inc. http://www.awe-struck.net in download and diskette: html, pdf, Palmpilot, REB 1100, Softbook, Hiebook, eBookman, Distributed internationally through online booksellers…Now Available in Trade Paperback! Visit Earthling Press http://www.earthling-press.com Awe-Struck's print subsidiary for titles in PRINT. Also available at Booksurge.com, B&N, Powells, eBookad.com, Fictionwise.com… Price: $4.50 Usual, non-sale price (download) $8.75 (disk, price includes S&H), $13.95 (trade paperback) – RT 2002 Award Nominee – Best Small Press Paranormal
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THIS ISSUE'S SPOTLIGHT SITE:
http://www.xchronicles-newspaper.com http://www.xzone-radio.com
THE 'X' CHRONICLES. North America's only paranormal/parapsychology newspaper, the print version of Radio and Television segments, "The 'X' Zone Radio/TV". If you're like listeners and readers who have a very keen and sincere interest in Science Fiction, New Age Spirituality, Parapsychology, Ghosts, Hauntings, UFO's, Tours and Ghost Walks, Alternative Medicine, the Paranormal, then this is your newspaper! From Rocket Ships to Star Trek and Beyond the 'X' Chronicles Newspaper is your venue.
Visit http://www.paranormalsummit.com

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"Death is only the beginning when a psychotherapist is reincarnated as a client's estranged and murdered husband…ETERNAL DESIGNS is the result" by Gracie C. McKeever
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THIS ISSUE'S AUTHOR IN THE SPOTLIGHT:
http://www.lindableser.com Site of award-winning contemporary romance, paranormal romance, horror and more writer, Linda Bleser. I read NBI titles "THE CHANCE YOU TAKE" and "ENCHANTED COTTAGE", and Treble Heart Books title "BRAKOS@TWILIGHT.COM" (and no, that's not a real e-mail address, so don't go trying to write to Mr. Brakos). Absolutely loved each and every one of them. If you haven't checked out this very talented and eclectic author's website and work, you're missing out on some wonderful reading experiences.

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DANCING IN THE DARK by Gracie C. McKeever — ISBN –1-928670-76-8 — Contemporary Romance available from Awe-Struck's Ennoble Line and can be purchased from http://www.awe-struck.net in download and diskette: html, pdf, Palmpilot, REB 1100, Softbook, Hiebook, eBookman, Distributed internationally through online booksellers. Price: $4.50 Usual, non-sale price (download) $8.75 (disk, price includes S&H)
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WORK-IN-PROGRESS: "A man who wants to save the world one child at a time…a young teen looking for acceptance and a savior wherever he can find them…and a woman who wants only to save them both. Somewhere between darkness and daylight they will all find and save each other." BETWEEN DARKNESS AND DAYLIGHT by Gracie C. McKeever – Author Note: As of this writing, the deed is done, and I've completed the first draft (ON my self-imposed deadline date 5/7/03, four months to the day of starting this baby.) Thirty-one chapters and an epilogue later, I've polished my synop, and have sent out my first (agent) query letter as of 5/13/03…Cross your fingers and wish me luck, guys and gals!

WHAT I'M READING/RECOMMENDED READS:
Another interesting mix of futuristic romance, time travel romance, paranormal romance and mainstream/women's fiction. Each title well-worth the purchase in any format:

VIRTUAL HEART by Karin Huxman: Debut futuristic romance that kickstarts Ms. Huxman's career into high-gear if this offering is any indication. Gripping, sensual story of love between a skeptical scientific type and a gifted psychic who teaches her how to believe the unbelievable and love unconditionally. The h/h are evenly matched and engaging with instant and fiery chemistry. An enjoyable one-sitter. Check out this and other titles by Ms. Huxman at http://www.newconceptspublishing.com

TIME RIDER, by Rickey R. Mallory: Not much to say about this title except, if you're a fan of "The Terminator" movies (like moi, who is anxiously awaiting July for the third installment in the series), then this book is definitely for you. Again, been one of those books sitting in my tbr stacks for a couple of years (have the original Dreams Unlimited release). Kristin Skipworth is an empath and a dedicated doctor. Rider Savage is the tank (TAINCC) sent back 500 years to kill "the mother of all deviants". What follows is fast-paced action, chase scenes, murder and mayhem, and let us not forget the hot h/h chemistry that leads to several priceless and provocative moments of sensual lovemaking. Great book, fun ride, satisfying ending. Check this title out at its current publisher http://www.imajinnbooks.com

ENCHANTED COTTAGE by Linda Bleser: Liz is a widowed school nurse on vacation and traveling cross-country as a change of pace. Never in her wildest dreams did she ever think she'd find her heart's desires on the road, in the form of a man young enough to be her son! Robert is the grief-stricken widower that lets Liz in out of the rain when she loses control and crashes her car in a storm. Together, Liz and Robert learn that age is nothing but a number and to believe in the magic of love. Excellent story! I enjoy Ms. Bleser's work more and more with each read. Check this one out at http://www.novelbooksinc.com

Recommended Read: SILKYDREAMGIRL by Chris Burks: Katie Jeffries has problems. She's been married several times, has sunk thousands of dollars backing her latest husband's many hare-brained get-rich-quick schemes, and said husband number four has just dropped a bombshell at the family picnic that he's leaving her and their two sons to go to California. On the heels of this delightful news, Katie goes to work the same week to receive another low blow at work: they're letting her go. What's a deserted wife and mother drowning in debt to do? Why bake and eat herself into oblivion and become a cyberchat junky of course. Through it all – her mother's, various other family members and friends' sharp criticism – and husband number four's lazy shiftlessness and infidelity – Katie is a survivor. And in this tale of personal struggle and self-discovery, she proves the old adage that anything worth having is worth fighting for. In the case of SILKYDREAMGIRL, Katie fights for her independence and right to self-expression. Funny, witty, bittersweet and ultimately satisfying family drama. A very nice addition to the African-American novel ranks, but with major mainstream, cross-over appeal. Excellent story! Check it out at Amazon.com, or the publisher's site www.harlemmoon.com (A division of Random House)

More interesting titles for you next issue!

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AD: NovelBooks Inc. features one of its authors every week, and that author provides a short story or novel excerpt which is then offered free to readers. Check out the site EVERY WEEK for a new story (and a different featured author) http://www.novelbooksinc.com NBI – "Surprisingly New – Always Unique"
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POETRY CORNER:

ROME
© May 2002 by Gracie C. McKeever

A fine suit
of blood and sweat
to hell and back
and overseas
seen the world
in mud dirt and rain
from treetop cradle
and foreign fox holes
the big picture he has seen
nothing fazes him
Veteran
of the earth
firm bed clean linens
shelter heat indoor plumbing
the basic needs
he did treasure
what we all take
for granted

GLASS BEADS PRESENTED AS SMALL JEWELS
by Valerie Hardin

Words do not always come when I wish
They may be worth little
Like glass beads instead of pearls
Glass bead upon bead
For any treasure of words would not compare to someone with such worth
But I do mean them to shine as treasures
Something to glow and light paths
Something magnificent to share
You are important
You are needed and cared for.
May you have comfort and love

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PS. It's Like MiracleGrow for Your Kid's Brain, My Grandmother's Wedding by Valerie Hardin, Eppie Finalist 2003 http://www.store.yahoo.com/streetsaint/ http://www.writers-exchange.com/epublishing/ Gargoyle's Tears by JV Harlee http://www.tarbuttonpress.com/synopsis%20gargoyle.html
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MILES TO GO by Gracie C. McKeever — ISBN 1-58749-025-0 — a Byte^Me teen novel available from Awe-Struck E-Books, Inc. http://www.awe-struck.net in download and diskette: html, pdf, Palmpilot, REB 1100, Softbook, Hiebook, eBookman, Distributed internationally through online booksellers. Price: $4.50 Usual, non-sale price (download) $8.75 (disk, price includes S&H)
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THIS ISSUE'S NOVEL TEASER: "FROM THE HEART" by JennaKay Francis
"How did you ever survive all of these years when you find feeding so embarrassing?"

"It’s not that I find it embarrassing, Deirdre. Until I met Anika, I rarely knew my source personally. Then when I met and married her, familiarity made it easy. Plus, there’s the fact that before I married, I had not yet--" He paused, blushing, unsure if he wished to discuss the details of his Growth with Deirdre.

She placed one hand on his arm. "I know about the Growth, Baris," she said, her voice husky. "I know how it affects the feeding. It’s nothing to be ashamed about. It’s a physical reaction that you have no control over."

Baris studied her a moment, wondering if that was entirely true. If he really put his mind to it, couldn’t he squelch his body’s reaction? Or was it because he simply didn’t want to? He reached out and touched the ends of her hair, rubbing the silken strands between his fingers. She was breathtakingly beautiful tonight, more so than he had ever seen her. He wasn’t sure if it was the firelight dancing off her dark hair or the residual excitement that glowed in her eyes or just his mounting sexual tension. She leaned toward him and their lips met in a gentle, yet passionate, kiss. Her hands slid to the base of his neck, pulling him closer. He responded by tangling his hand in her hair, as his tongue met hers in a dance of desire.

His free hand moved up her side, felt the soft roundness of her breast. His thumb reached out and caressed the hard nipple, sliding easily over the silken gown.

Deirdre let out a soft moan, her own desires clearly evident. She leaned backward and he fell atop her on the lounge. All reason left him. He wanted her, entirely. Now! His hands moved over her body, as his breath quickened. Deirdre easily stripped him of his tunic then ran her fingers lightly along his back and sides. The touch sent shivers racing through him and he abruptly stood, drawing her with him. It didn’t take but a moment for her to shed her gown. Baris picked her up and placed her gently on the bed then lay beside her, again claiming her lips with his.

The scent of iron wafted into the air, calling out to his Vector need. He moved his mouth to her neck, where he kissed and teased, before finally biting. Deirdre shuddered beneath him.
Her deft fingers easily loosened his breeches, slipped them away from him. She touched his swollen manhood. Her soft, warm hands sent waves of lust roaring through him. His hand slid down her side, moved to her mound, then between her legs. He could feel the heat coming from her and when he touched her, he knew she was ready to accept him.

He entered her with a loud groan. Her moans of pleasure mingled with his and she dug her fingernails into his back and sides as she held him firmly to her. He slowed his draw of blood, wanting to make it last, wanting to ride to orgasm with her. When she abruptly lifted her legs and wrapped them about his waist, driving his hard member ever deeper into her softness, he could no longer stand the tension. He allowed the blood to flow into his mouth as easily as his seed flowed into her body.

She let out a scream of pleasure, holding to him, moving with him, sending his own orgasmic response to its height. Then, satiated, he collapsed against her, his mouth still at her neck though he no longer fed. Her warm breath touched gently at his throat, sending a quiet calm through him. He didn’t want to move, didn’t want to think about any other moment than the one he was in.

Slowly, very slowly, he spiraled down from his euphoria. Guilt began to creep in, though it came on kitten’s feet, softly, barely noticeable. He wondered about that as he gently pulled away. She lay still, eyes closed, her breathing returning to normal, her swollen lips curved in a smile of utter satisfaction. Baris brushed dark curls from her face and shoulders, then gently kissed her breasts, throat and lips. She sighed and nestled closer to his warmth. He pulled the blankets over their nude bodies and closed his eyes to sleep.

He woke muzzy-headed and fatigued. Deirdre was snuggled up against him, still asleep. If guilt had come on kitten’s feet the previous night, it now came roaring forward with the force of a lion. Baris let out a heavy sigh of disbelief and stumbled from the bed, waking Deirdre in the process.

"What’s wrong?" she murmured, peering up at him.

"Nothing. I...it’s just time we were up."

"To do what? Can’t we just stay here for a few days, Baris? We can keep a low profile, just go out at night. This city is so exciting. We haven’t even begun to explore all it has to offer."

Baris picked up the robe supplied by the inn and slipped it on before moving to the window to peer out. The streets were already busy and his gaze flicked over the crowd. A dark-haired woman caught his eye and he stared at her for a long time. She reminded him of Anika, his wife, his lover, his soulmate. How could he have done this to her? How could he have forsaken his vows of fidelity like this?

Anger tore through him and he spun from the window, searching for his clothes. Deirdre watched him dress in silence, her unspoken question hanging in the chill air. When he headed for the door, however, she bolted from the bed and blocked his path.

"Where are you going?" she demanded.

"Just out, Deirdre. I just have to go out." He refused to look at her nudity.

"If this is because of what happened last night..."

"Of course, it’s because of what happened last night!" he shouted. "It was wrong, Deirdre! I’m a married man. I love my wife. And now I’ve done the one thing that is sure to put an end to my marriage and my family. I am below contempt." He pushed past her.

"Baris! Please, don’t go."

He paused a moment with his hand on the latch then shook his head and left the room. His steps were fast and furious, taking him along the wide corridor, down the spiraling staircase and out the front door of the inn. Early morning sunshine hit him full in the face, nearly blinding him.

Frowning, he slipped into the shadows created by the tall buildings.

He swung into an alley, barely conscious of the filth that lay on the ground. From alley to alley he went, heedless of his direction, uncertain of his goal. He just wanted to get away. Away from what? He stopped suddenly. Away from what? From Deirdre? From the inn? From the memory of what had taken place there?

By the Sovereign! Just walking away couldn’t erase the fact that he had made love with another woman. And that he had enjoyed it. By the gods, how he had enjoyed it! Even now, the memories were enough to tease his body, to taunt him. He roared out an epithet and once more began walking. Several times he saw men passed out from drink, empty or half-empty bottles clutched in their cold hands. Baris plucked up one such bottle and took a long swallow of the bitter ale. It burned a path to his stomach and he took another, subconsciously realizing he was punishing himself. That only made his anger stronger and he drained the bottle of its contents. With a disgusted oath, he hurled it against a building, watching it shatter. The drunk grunted and shifted position.

Baris glared down at him, at his neck, now exposed. He started toward the man, then stopped. No, not a drunk. He wanted someone else, someone he could command and control, lure with his power. His anger driven to fury by the drink on an empty stomach, he strode onward. If he was destined to be a Lair Vector, living out his life in relative solitude, away from a one-on-one relationship then so be it. He needed to get used to using his power and accept that there would always be a sexual component to it.

He rounded a corner, nearly colliding with a young man coming the other direction. The youth glared up at him, his eyes barely focused.

"Watch where you’re going!" he snarled and made as if to push Baris aside.

Baris stood his ground, his hands closing into fists at his side.

"Perhaps you should be the one watching," he said tightly.

The young man started to speak, then stopped as his gaze flicked over Baris and his expensive clothing.

"What are you doing here? You look like you should be over on High Street."
Baris had no idea what High Street was or what sort of clientele it catered to, but he didn’t like the surly tone in the man’s voice. The ale he had consumed had quickly gone to his head, making him dizzy. And the way the youth’s eyes were darting about, as if unable to train on any one object, was not helping. Baris drew a deep breath.

"I will be where I choose to be."

The young man shrugged, then reached into his vest pocket. He took out a leather pouch and shook it in Baris’ face.

"You have money, I have hack."

"What is hack?"

"Just the best thing since sex," the young man answered with a sly grin. "Just a pinch and you’ll see the world in a whole different way. And my stuff’s pure. It’s not softened with some useless herb. You’ll see the quality, taste the quality, feel the quality."

"A drug?" Baris shook his head. "I have no need for such."

"Suit yourself." The young man made to return the pouch to his vest but dropped it instead. With an oath he bent to retrieve it and stumbled, falling to his hands and knees. Broken glass sliced into his hand and he yelped, falling back to lean against the wall.

"Damn! Now look what you made me do."

Baris barely heard the words. His gaze was on the blood running freely down the man’s hand and dripping into the dirt. His body began to respond with alarming intensity. There was something different about the scent of this blood, something alluring and powerful. Almost without thinking, Baris hunkered down before the youth. Without a word, he reached out, caught a drop of blood and placed it on his tongue.

The young man looked at him, his face screwed up in disgust. "What the hell are you doing?" he snarled.

Baris forced his gaze to the man’s face, still reeling from the taste of the blood. He had never experienced anything like it. It rushed through his body, set his nerves to tingling, brought a giddy sense of well-being. He had to have more. He straightened and reached for the young man, who shrank back, confused and suddenly very afraid.

Baris smiled and let his Illusion fade away. The youth gasped, cloudy eyes going wide. Even in his drugged state, he knew what he viewed. He pressed back against the wall.

"No," he whispered.

"Oh, yes," Baris whispered back and clamped one hand at the youth’s nape. His gaze locked on the man’s and slowly, tauntingly, he bared his incisors.

"Please," the youth begged, though his voice was barely audible.

"Yes, you will please me," Baris returned and sank his teeth into the man’s neck.

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BIO: JennaKay Francis is an award-winning author and has been writing since she was 12 years old. She has written in many different genres but truly found her voice and love in fantasy. She writes fantasy adventure, fantasy romance, dark fantasy and children’s picture books. Her INSIDE A SNAIL SHELL from Writers Exchange Ebooks finaled in the 2003 EPPIES. You can find a complete listing of her books on her homepage at http://www.geocities.com/jennakayfrancis -- FROM THE HEART can be purchased from her publisher Amber Quill Press at http://www.amberquill.com
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QUICK TEASE:
Chapter 1
Fire tongue Seeks Uncle Inferno's help

Once upon a time a dragon was born who couldn't breathe fire. His mother, alas, made the bad mistake of calling him Firetongue. How was she to know he would be different from his brothers and sisters?

Firetongue found life miserable almost from the start.

To begin with, he missed out on all the fun because nearly every game needed him to breathe fire. And to make matters worse the others wouldn't stop teasing him, which he naturally resented. After all, they didn't tease Emberling, who had lost an eye in an accident. And they didn't leave her out of their games, either.

In despair Firetongue went to see Uncle Inferno.

Uncle Inferno lived alone. Although shy around other grown dragons, he enjoyed telling tales to the youngsters. He was also willing to listen to their problems. Maybe he could advise
Firetongue on how to stop the teasing.

However, what Firetongue didn't yet know about Uncle Inferno was that he had a wicked sense of humor. Sometimes his advice got mixed up with his tall tales and landed trusting young dragons in trouble with their parents.

"Your mother must have forgotten to give you fire rock to eat the moment you were born," he said gravely. "If a baby dragon's first meal isn't fire rock it never learns how to make fire. I'm afraid it's already too late." Uncle Inferno blew an endless stream of multicolored smoke rings into the air. Looking thoughtful, he made them form into a corkscrew that soared high over the cliffs where the dragons lived in caves. He didn't seem to notice how woeful Firetongue looked. "There is one other answer to the problem. But for that you must visit Mount Furnace." He pointed with one long claw to the distant horizon, where a tiny-looking plume of smoke spoiled the blue of an otherwise cloudless sky. "See that? That's Mount Furnace where all the fire rock comes from. When you're grown up you'll be able to fly over it. It's full of the stuff. The Fire God will most likely be asleep at the bottom. He doesn't mind dragons taking the ordinary fire rock. But that will be no use to you. The piece you need looks like a huge polished ruby. There's only one and it's his special treasure, so you'll have to be careful taking it. If you wake him up he'll burn you to cinders."

By this time Uncle Inferno's smoke rings had brought a crowd of young dragons, all wide-eyed with wonder. Uncle Inferno was the only dragon able to perform tricks with smoke. He was always happy to explain how he did it. But none of the youngsters ever managed to blow more than one ring, and never a colored one.

Now, he winked at them. They all grinned as they realized Uncle Inferno, in his own way, was also teasing Firetongue.

But Firetongue was too excited to see this. At last he had a chance to solve his problem! "Thank you, Uncle Inferno," he said breathlessly. All the youngsters watched Firetongue leave, the older ones trying to stifle their giggles at such a trusting nature. But no harm would come to him, they told themselves. Everyone knew that timid Firetongue would go straight to his mother. She would be very cross with him for believing anything Uncle Inferno said.

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BIO: Laraine Anne Barker's THE LITTLE DRAGON WITHOUT FIRE won a short story competition in 1997 and The Obsidian Quest was a YA finalist in the Dream Realm Awards 2001. Silvranja of the Silver Forest (still unpublished) was short-listed for the Tom Fitzgibbon Award 1997/98, when a comedy won.
Author of THE OBSIDIAN QUEST ***A finalist in the Dream Realm Awards 2001*** Coming soon: http://www.hardshell.com/detail.asp?product_ID=0-7599-0498-7 THE LITTLE DRAGON WITHOUT FIRE: http://www.diskuspublishing.com/littledragon.html Web site: http://lbarker.orcon.net.nz/
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NEW LIFE INCOGNITA by Gracie C. McKeever — ISBN (disk) 1-55316-061-4 (Rocket) 1-55316-939-5 — New Age Paranormal Urban Romance available and can be purchased from LTDBooks http://www.ltdbooks.com in download and diskette: Palmpilot, Rocket eBook, Gemstar REB 1100 and 1200 and Franklin eBookman. Price: $5.00 (download) $6.00 (disk). Also Available from Amazon and distributed internationally through other major online booksellers.
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THIS ISSUE'S NEWSLETTER CONTEST:
This issue I'm offering two selections – an e-book and a paperback – the previously mentioned "Virtual Heart" (3.5 disk), and, good condition, Tina Wainscott's "In a Heartbeat". You know the drill, but just in case you don't. To enter for your chance to win, just send an e-mail with your name, address and e-mail address to g_mac10@yahoo.com with "Heart Contest" in the subject line. Contest runs until June 20, 2003. One entry per e-mail address, and per person. Refer a friend, however, (who e-mails me with his/her request to subscribe and naming you as their referral) to the newsletter before the deadline, and you get an additional entry. The more friends you refer, the more times you're entered. (Referred friend will automatically be entered in the current newsletter contest). Winner will be notified by e-mail, and mailing address will be confirmed. In the event chosen contestant does not respond within seven (7) days, another name will be drawn. I reserve the right to publish winner's name on my webpage(s) and in my newsletter.

March/April's 2003 Newsletter Contest Winner of one copy "Chasing The Shadows": Kim Westgaard, Crystal Lake, IL.

Congrats, Kim and hope you enjoy your prize!

GIVEAWAYS/GOOD DEALS/SHAMELESS PROMOTIONS:
FREE BOOK offers from Road to Romance: http://roadtoromance.dhs.org/freestories.htm
The Free Stories Feature has been updated and given it's own page. It used to be on the contest page. These are author stories and are linked to their sites, where you can either download them or read them online. Lot's of free reading here! Follow the links offered with each.

"SHADOW OF LOVE" Paranormal Romance – FREE Novel Download from Awe-Struck E-Books
http://awe-struck.net/FREENVLTTE/freeshoflve.html

"Read SHROUDED HEARTS by Cass Andre at NO CHARGE!
Bestselling, award-winning author, Cass Andre, has just released SHROUDED HEARTS, the sequel to VEILED HEARTS. If you thought Luke had woman troubles, wait until you see what Reed has put up with! Download SHROUDED HEARTS at www.booksbycass.com/shrouded.html
(formats available: doc, rtf, lit, html, kml, rb, pdf and a printable file)"

Do you like to read a chapter of a book before you buy it? Stop by Readers Read™ http://www.readersread.com/excerpts/ to read excerpts and first chapters from the newest books. Check back frequently.

Visit NovelBooks, Inc. Cyber Shops at http://www.cafepress.com/nbi where you'll find your favorite NBI cover (yes, Virginia, even Desert Dreams!) on a slew of different products—from tees and totes, to mousepads and mugs. You can also choose to purchase official NBI gear perfect for showing off to your friends or wearing out and about. Keep an eye out for new products and specials. And if you haven't so far been lucky enough to win one of the "Desert Dreams" prizes up for grabs in my previous contests, well then you might have to break down and BUY the gear. Did I mention, affordable gifts, just in time for…ANY time?

If you haven't checked it out yet, zip on over to Earthling Press http://www.earthling-press.com, your source of fine books in print. EP is an imprint of Awe-Struck E-Books, Inc. and brings to you the same great stories—and great giveaways and sales—from your favorite Awe-Struck Awe-thors…only in print! "Earthling Press—books from your home planet."

Stay informed about lots of your favorite writers in one monthly newsletter, and consider subscribing to Writerspace-News, where you'll be kept up-to-date on Janelle Denison, Jayne Ann Krentz, Elizabeth Lowell, Stella Cameron, Rachel Gibson, Susan Elizabeth Phillips, Geralyn Dawson, Susan Wiggs, Diana Palmer, Marilyn Pappano and more. To subscribe, visit http://www.writerspace.com/news.html

Want to find out: What Science Fiction Romance is, anyway, and why does Science Fiction Romance deserve its own newsletter and website? Wellllll…you guessed it, another newsletter. But, if you're really into the genre and want to keep abreast of what's coming out and going on with your favorite sfr authors, then this newsletter IS a must (I know, that's what they all say).

The newsletter, which hosts the yearly SAPPHIRE AWARDS for the best works in the genre, has been in publication since 1993/1994 and has had an active website since 1996. They publish monthly in both email and paper formats. For subscriptions to the email newsletter, simply visit the site http://www.sfronline.com/
enter your email address where indicated. For subscriptions by mail, SASEs are required, so contact the editor, Jody Wallace, at editor@sfronline.com.

And along the same lines, try THE DREAM WEAVER – "For those who believe in the magic of dreams".
It's easier than ever to read the Dream Weaver online! www.earthlycharms.com/dreamweaver.htm
Or send a blank email: DreamWeaverNewsletter-subscribe@yahoogroups.com to subscribe and be automatically entered in the bi-monthly drawings.

ODDS AND ENDS:
Visit Gracie's Gallery http://hometown.aol.com/gwiz10/myhomepage/index.html and learn a little more about Gracie C. McKeever and her books. Peruse the links of interest for writers and readers. Enjoy the available articles, poems, short stories, novelettes and free book excerpts, and…Happy Reading!

Please feel free to share this newsletter (in its entirety and/or including the proper credits when/where necessary) with a friend or two...or a hundred! Encourage them to sign up. Or they can just drop me an e-mail expressing their wish to subscribe to the newsletter and I'll sign them up. Want to preview the newsletter and see if it's to your liking? Check out past issues of Gracie's Gazette at
http://www.authorsden.com/visit/viewnewsletter.asp?AuthorID=623

Thanks for subscribing and see you next issue!

GCM--
Two rules for life:
1) Don’t' tell people everything you know
2)