Books by Gracie C. McKeever

© 2006 Gracie C. McKeever

In This Issue:

--Midnight Madness Chat
--Siren Authors Chat!
--Mini-Reviews (What I'm Reading/What I Bought/Recommended Reads)
--Review Excerpt(s) for BTS!
--Review Excerpt(s) for GS!
--Review Excerpt(s) for PS!
--Review Excerpt(s) for SCIS!
--Review Excerpt(s) for TOS!
--New and Used Books Is Staying Open!
--This Issue’s Novel Excerpt
--This Issue's E-Publisher Spotlight
--This Issue's Author Spotlight
--Love Romances and More! Interview
--Romance Junkies Interview
--This Issue's Newsletter Contest
--Giveaways/Good Deals/Shameless Promotions and/or Sites That No (Romance) Reader Should be Without
--Odds and Ends

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First off, some of you may have noticed the change in the newsletter’s name (then again, some of you may have not…D-oh!), and if you’re wondering why, I had a sudden epiphany and decided it was a better name and better suited the direction my writing was going in (plus The G-Spot sounds so much sexier and cooler than the generic and mundane Gracie’s Gazette don’t you think? My Mom said The G-Spot was “swift” and said it with a lot of enthusiasm and this was enough for me). Other than the name change, the format hasn’t changed much. I still ramble on about the latest movies I’ve seen, and include lots of information about my books and other goings on in the publishing industry and with other authors.

So here you have it, the inaugural issue of The G-Spot!
Well, summer is officially over and by the time you guys get this, we will be firmly entrenched in the fall season and fall TV watching (anyone a fan of Desperate Housewives and Lost like me?) Although, I have to admit, Lost has…lost (no pun) some of its initial appeal to me. Too many mysteries and not enough resolution or answers. Not to mention the constant repeats. And this season they’re splitting early for fall hiatus for THREE MONTHS! I’m becoming disenchanted, and I don’t have time to waste an hour of my life to be dissatisfied in the end. Not when I can read a good book or even write one. And not when there are so many more shows in the line-up begging for my time and attention (can you say Heroes or Dexter? I think I’ve found a couple of new shows to be addicted to. Lost look out!).

Hope you’re all enjoying the season and looking forward to the Holidays with your family and friends. Remember, don’t overindulge (that’s alcohol and FOOD) and don’t forget to designate a driver when you’re out partying and drinking and do overindulge. DON’T drink and drive and DO be safe.

Okay, off the soapbox, and now on to some lighter news fare...

I did a movie marathon with my sister one weekend on Friday when we were both off and caught GRIDIRON GANG with Dwayne “The Rock” Johnson, CRANK, with Jason Statham, and THE COVENANT with a bunch of unknowns. Where do I begin? Besides being a movie junky and wanting to see The Rock and Jason (I love his raspy, smoky English accented voice!), there is no accounting for taste with this list. I love sports movies and I love football and the Rock’s bod? Need I say more? So, GRIDIRON should have been a perfect match, right? Actually, I enjoyed the movie, had the prerequisite action and pile-ups on the field and melo-drama off. A decent movie overall but I’m sure I wouldn’t have died had I waited for the DVD or even cable premiere. CRANK was full of thrills, spills and action, action, action. Just goes to show, great action does not a good movie make. I’m sure there are plenty of adrenaline junkies (much like the movie’s hero) and most of the male variety who absolutely loved this movie. It had its moments, but much like DOMINO just a little too dark and stylized for my tastes. It’ll be a perfect DVD or cable movie. THE COVENANT…what can I say? Moment of weakness? I fell for the previews? Okay, let’s be honest, I love most anything that goes bump in the night and is of a supernatural nature, and THE COVENANT definitely fit the bill. Starts off with a good premise, but the execution and acting was dull and after the initial exciting opening the story dragged. A definite straight-to-video movie if there ever was one. Someone on one of the review sites I went to said it was like a drawn-out episode of a WB (now CW for anyone who’s keeping track of this) series. I ignored their perceptions and went out to see it anyway, and I have to agree with their description. Fits to a T. Also Caught THE GUARDIAN one free Friday after my annual physical. Starred Kevin Costner and Ashton Kutcher. Besides my being a Kutcher fan (I loved THE BUTTERFLY EFFECT and GUESS WHO?) this was a decent little outing. Good solid story and characterizations, though some will probably see AN OFFICER AND A GENTLEMAN or TOP GUN rip-off in this story about the elite rescue swimmers of the Coast Guard (because we all know no one can pull off that ending Richard did carrying Debra Winger out of that factory ….Can you say hot?). Overall THE GUARDIAN was a good, action-packed popcorn movie.

Caught SEVERED on DVD…was nothing like what I expected (from the title, I expected dismemberment and other such carnage a la Texas Chainsaw Massacre). Nothing of the sort. This LIVING DEAD wannabe was even a bust for a DVD. For some reason, it kept my interest (probably because I had already invested a half an hour and wanted/needed to see how it turned out). The ending SUCKED much worse than the entire movie (I guess I was hoping the ending would redeem the movie, but it didn’t). If you can, stay away from this one, unless you are just a die-hard fan of zombies and anything Living Dead-ish.

Now on to the business of writing and promoting :
TERMS OF SURRENDER started its release with a bang. It came out at Siren the #1 Top Seller in October and held steady here for the entire month. So I was pretty happy about that! BENEATH THE SURFACE and SPELLS CAST IN SHADOWS have each been holding steady around the Top Ten since July…so that’s pretty cool too .
I finally finished MANIFEST DESTINY: THE MATCHMAKER 3 on 10/12/06 and sent it to Siren a week later to beat deadline by about a month…whew! Don’t like cutting it too close. I really enjoyed exploring Jason’s sexuality in this one (he was such a nice guy/best friend in SPELLS CAST IN SHADOWS, it was nice to see him let loose and have hot sexy fun with a woman of his very own rather than pining for someone he could not have). Evelyn had a bit of a kinky side that was nice to explore too. Speaking of exploring the kinky side, check out the review excerpts of SPELLS CAST IN SHADOWS and PREDATOR’S SALVATION from Leah at Love Romances and More! and Julie Esparza of JERR in this issue, you’ll see that a couple of someones think I write a pretty decent alpha male. Who knew?). BTW, and for you tactile print lovers, SPELLS CAST IN SHADOWS is now available in print. See information and Amazon link below in the newsletter.

I also completed a short erotica (IDLE HANDS) that I’m going to be submitting for consideration in Zane’s CHOCOLAE FLAVA II anthology. Cross your fingers for me on that (I am STILL waiting to here definitively whether I made it into the CARAMEL FLAVA II anthology with LEAP OF FAITH). The e-mails I received are promising (first one saying I was “being considered heavily” and the next one requesting word count and title of story for Caramel Flava II addressed to “Caramel Flava Candidates”). Anyway, wish me luck!
The cover for my upcoming Siren release, ETERNAL DESIGNS is available and up on the site. Of course, like all of Jinger’s covers, I think it’s absolutely fabulous! Check it out here: http://www.sirenpub.com/graciecmckeever/ed.asp

Speaking of covers, the cover for IN PLAIN SIGHT (also done by Jinger Heaston) was Kimmy’s Pick over at Erotic Excerpts for the week of 10/7/06. Kimmy wanted to know what was in the hero’s tidy whites . Check out http://groups.yahoo.com/group/eroticexcerpts/ to see what Kimmy has to say about her latest pick and to see another great new cover. Visit the Photos section to see some other great covers of my and other authors’ books.

To get a peek at IN PLAIN SIGHT and Caution Foster’s tidy whites , visit here: http://www.sirenpub.com/authors-img/gcm-ips.jpg

And if you want to get a sneak peek at some excerpts before the release in December, visit here: http://www.sirenpub.com/graciecmckeever/ips.asp

As release dates are subject to change, to stay informed of current information on upcoming books see newsletter below, or better still check the Siren website at http://www.sirenpub.com.

For those of you who missed my first live interview at ArtistFirst (http://www.artistfirst.com) the link to download the show from the archives is available: http://66.49.247.8/Authors-First_09-18-06_-_Gracie_McKeever.mp3 If for some reason you have a problem with the link, you can just click the Artist First link, go to archives (there’s a link right on the home page beneath the large Artist First Logo that says “CLICK HERE FOR SELECT PAST SHOWS”) and check under the author shows (scroll down to Shows with Authors on the left-hand side. The list is in alphabetical order by author last name). Now remember, it was my first live interview, so please be gentle with me and try to overlook the constant “uhs,” “ums,” and “actuallys” you’ll hear throughout. (I really have to work on those, even though former NY Mayor Koch used to do this all the time too…who says I want to emulate him, though? Listening to the interview was almost painful, but like a football player that watches last week’s game to prepare for the next, I had to go through it and see how really bad I was and how much I had to improve). Anyway, let me know what you think (I’ve been told by a fellow author who listened to the show that I have a bit of a New York accent, to which I replied “Only a BIT?” ).

If any of you are on My Space, don’t forget to look me up and Add Me as a friend. Visit me here: http://wwww.myspace.com/graciecmckeever (Me, I’ve been on an Add-Me frenzy it seems. I think I’m something of an Add-Me Ho, LOL. But I only send invites to either people I know through lists, people in the writing/publishing business, readers of the type of fiction I write, or just interesting people that have SOMETHING in common with me. I try to be a LITTLE discriminating . But alas, my picture continues to draw guys who want to hook up or “get to know” me… Oh, and on that note, I think I’ve been dumped. Remember I mentioned that Stephen King was among my friends? Well, I was sorting through my list of friends one weekend (I like to periodically rotate my Top 24), and didn’t see his photo among my friends (he’s kind of hard to miss). Well I’ll be, I’ve been dumped by the master of horror and macabre. Was it something I said? I think I’m insulted...NOT).

Until next time, wishing you all a healthy, happy and safe HOLIDAY SEASON!

And hope you enjoy this inaugural issue of The G-Spot!
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MIDNIGHT MADNESS CHAT!
Friday, 10/27/06 I participated in this event over at Chatting with Joyfully Reviewed where paranormal romance authors, their books and vamps, weres, and other things that go bump in the night were the order of the day. If you weren’t lucky enough to make it to the chat, check out the archives here to see what you missed: http://groups.yahoo.com/group/Chatting_with_Joyfully_Reviewed While you’re there, join the list and get to know and keep up with your favorite authors.

SIREN AUTHORS CHAT!
Saturday, 11/11/06 Siren Books held its first chat and it was a rousing success! I participated in this one with several other Siren authors where over 1,100 messages were exchanged and 35 Siren books were given away throughout the day (my fingers are still recovering from all the typing...the messages were flying fast and furious.) If you weren’t lucky enough to make it to this chat and win a book, check out the archives here to see what you missed: http://groups.yahoo.com/SirenBooks While you’re there, join the list to get to know your favorite Siren authors and get the most up-to-date news on Siren contests and books. And mark your calendars…we’re having another big chat in February 2007. Hope to see you all there!

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COMING SOON from Siren Publishing, Inc.: "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, erotic paranormal romance (psychic/interracial), and a NCWA (New Century Writer Award) 2003 Novel/Novella Finalist, by Gracie C. McKeever. To read three chapters FREE go here: http://www.sirenpublishing.com/graciecmckeever/bdad-excerpt.asp To find out more about BETWEEN DARKNESS AND DAYLIGHT, and see the great cover for this book, go here: http://www.sirenpub.com/graciecmckeever/bdad.asp Available in electronic and print February 2007!
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DESERT DREAMS by Gracie C. McKeever – Best-Selling Paranormal Djinni Romance available as a download from Fictionwise.com http://fictionwise.com/ebooks/eBook30601.htm Regular $7.99/Club $6.79 -- "Old World Evil vs New Age Passion… Can their love survive an ancient vendetta?" A centuries-old Djinni betrayed...a modern career woman and wife bereft. Can this thoroughly mismatched couple find comfort and vindication in each other's arms? More importantly, can their love survive the ancient vendetta of one unforgiving and powerful demon Djinni, Kane's sworn enemy Ifreet? Find out that anything is possible when a devout and mystical djinni from the old-world joins forces with an urban-reared spitfire from the new.
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EPIC's BOOKSTORE:
Epic's Ebook Store is Powered by Fictionwise.com
Fictionwise.com one of the most successful ebook seller on the web or
off has helped create a store for The Electronically Published Internet Connection (EPIC). It's a published writer's organization that has both ebook and print published members. It also has Industry members such as publishers and agents. Epic is the most recognized authority on epublishing. This bookstore will hope to sell ebooks by epic members that are on sale at fictionwise.
Visit EPIC's Bookstore-http://store.fictionwise.com/epic/

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FLAMES PAST by Gracie C. McKeever, Contemporary Paranormal Romance available from Awe-Struck E-Books, Inc. http://awe-struck.net/AUTHORS20/flames.html in download and diskette and distributed internationally through online booksellers…Also available in Trade Paperback from Amazon: http://www.amazon.com/Flames-Past-Gracie-C-McKeever/dp/1587492547/ref=sr_11_1/102-5235251-9271348?ie=UTF8 and Earthling Press http://www.earthling-press.com Awe-Struck's print subsidiary for titles in PRINT. Price: $4.50 Usual, non-sale price (download) $8.75 (disk, price includes S&H), $14.95 (trade paperback) – RT 2002 Award Nominee – Best Small Press Paranormal – “Sean Casey has convinced himself he's content with his blue-collar existence but at an emotional and philosophical crossroads in his relationship with his yuppie lawyer fiancee. When Echo Quinn--an adolescent flame, but now successful health club owner--suddenly resurfaces with their "gifted" and troubled ten-year-old son in tow, Sean is forced to confront his deadly past and find absolution. Watch the sparks fly when a pyrokinetic firefighter, and an alcoholic telepath--reunite in this "secret baby" story with a supernatural twist...”
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MIND LIKE WATER E-Book Directory: http://www.mindlikewater.com: Free ebook directory and marketing

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DANCING IN THE DARK by Gracie C. McKeever, Contemporary Romance available from Awe-Struck E-Book’s Ennoble Line and can be purchased from http://awe-struck.net/AUTHORS6/ditd.html Also distributed internationally through online booksellers. Price: $4.50 Usual, non-sale price (download) $8.75 (disk, price includes S&H) – “Will a spoiled rich debutante get rid of the chip on her shoulder and stop wallowing in self-pity long enough to let her physical therapist rehabilitate her? Watch classes collide in this story of self-discovery and healing.”
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EBOOK RELEASES AND CONTESTS:
This blog was set up by Pamela Tyner for readers to locate information about Epublished authors’ new releases and/or contest information: http://ebooksreleasesandcontest.blogspot.com/

Readers, this blog will be updated on a regular basis. Add it to your favorites and visit often .

MINI-REVIEWS (WHAT I'M READING/WHAT I BOUGHT/RECOMMENDED READS):
Just this month I’ve been on a reading binge finishing 5 books in one week (granted some were short, and I know it’s not a lot to some voracious readers out there who read a book a day on a the norm, but it’s a lot for me. I’ve been making up lost time and playing catch up between works-in-progress. Eventually I’ll have to dive back into EMILIA’S EMANCIPATION (I’ve already done some outline and background work on my main characters). But for now I’m having fun while I can. And below are some Jack-Handy thoughts on some of the books that I’ve been reading throughout the last three months…Not gospel but hope you enjoy or at the very least find them helpful:

Finished Lucy Monroe’s merc series (started with READY earlier this year, not knowing it was part of a series, and just recently picked up WILLING and AND ABLE. Of the three, I enjoyed the first one (Wolf and Lise’s story) the best. The characters were more fleshed-out and sympathetic, and the storyline was more realistic. Josie and Nitro in WILLING were a hot couple together. I liked Josie’s inexperience and naïvete. Claire in AND ABLE was the least likable of the three heroine’s to me, and I don’t’ know why. I wasn’t too crazy about the hero, Hotwire either, so you can imagine getting through the story wasn’t as enjoyable as I had hoped. The saving grace was the solid and interesting storyline. But for h/h chemistry, this one didn’t do it for me. For a really good read with all the elements—tight plot, engaging characters, sizzling h/h chemistry, etc.—that I’ve come to love from Ms. Monroe, and to get to know a babe of a hero in yummy Alex Trahern, try COME UP AND SEE ME SOMETIME. I read this one after READY and became a Lucy Monroe fan…I still am .

CASEY by Lori Foster: Continues The Buckhorn Brother series with oldest brother Sawyer’s all grown-up and hot son Casey Hudson. Cute story that proves you can go home again. The heroine, Emma Clark, abused and neglected as a teen was sympathetic and one of the major elements that made this book a worthwhile read. I liked the way she rose above her circumstances to survive and thrive. And though she didn’t really need the hero to validate her worth, she needed him to complete her as a sexual woman. Casey’s a strong male lead following in his father and uncle’s footsteps, a perfect balance of alpha male and vulnerable and sensitive hero.

FAIRLY HUMAN by Holly Fuhrmann: I read the first three stories in this Fairy Godmother series – MAD ABOUT MAX, MAGIC FOR JOY and MIRACLES FOR NICK – a few years back and had to read (what I’m assuming) is the final book since in this one Myrtle, Fern and Blossom, the fairy godmothers who set up their godchildren – Max, Joy and Nick’s – happily ever afters get their own in this delightful book. The story is so fast-paced, sweet and funny, that I didn’t even notice the absence of hot erotic sex (of course, if I remember correctly, there wasn’t any in the previous three and I loved them just as much). This book can be purchased in electronic or print format from ImaJinn Books at http://www.imajinnbooks.com

HOT NIGHT by Shannon McKenna: This author never disappoints me. This was another hot and erotic read with scorching h/h chemistry, snappy and realistic dialogue to go with the engaging characters and a frightfully cold-blooded and calculating villain to torment museum administrator Abby Maitland and her sexy bad-boy locksmith Alexander “Zan” Duncan. I never thought that I would have the hots for one of McKenna’s heroes as bad as I did for Seth in BEHIND CLOSED DOORS, but Mr. Duncan gives the paranoid and domineering alpha Seth a run for his money in this one. You can get this from your local bookstore or major online stores like Amazon.

JUST A KISS by Lara Santiago: This book is a prime example of why I’m glad I signed on with Siren Publishing, a publisher with so obvious an eye for quality and talent . I highlighted Lara in a previous issue of Gracie’s Gazette and deservedly so. This book was an action-packed, intrigue-filled, sensual thrill ride that I’m so glad I took. Keller is one ingratiatingly sultry alien with orgasmic chocolate-flavored kisses that had me drooling on my keyboard as I read. Gabrielle is his sensitive and witty match in every way. A great read available from Siren Publishing, Inc. http://www.sirenpub.com.

JUST ONE EMBRACE by Lara Santiago: Follow-up Tiburon story that stands alone, and stands alone quite well telling the story of Crag Tyler, Keller’s childhood friend and Commander of Arms to the Tiburon Queen, Keller’s mother. He’s lost his life partner and is still in mourning a year later when he goes to earth for a visit with his old friend and a sabbatical. Crag has sworn that he would never succumb to the charms of a “puny earthling” as his friend Keller has, nor will he leave Tiburon in pursuit of same. One glance at beautiful brunette Ellie Granger serves to change his point of view, however. Just as engaging, sensual and poignant as its predecessor. Also available at http://www.sirenpub.com.

MISTRESS OF REDEMPTION by Joey W. Hill: This BDSM Romantica™ follows Johnathan Powell’s road to redemption from the villain who ruined Lauren in HOLDING THE CARDS and who almost killed Violet and Mac Nighthorse in NATURAL LAW. That this author was able to turn this character around to make him a thoroughly sympathetic and relatable hero worthy of his own book and romance, is a testament to her gift for characterization and story-telling. Joey Hill has done it again and this is another winner available from Ellora’s Cave http://www.ellorascave.com

THE PREGNANCY TEST by Erin McCarthy: Ms. McCarthy is another auto-buy for me and this book is one of the reasons why. Equal parts humorous and poignant, the story follows Mandy Keeling as she interviews for a new job with benefits and stability shortly after she finds out she’s pregnant and the father wants nothing to do with a baby. In steps Damien “Demon” Sharpton the boss from hell with heavy baggage of his own to claim and much instant lust in his heart for his new assistant Mandy. Great read! You can get this from your local bookstore or major online bookstores like Amazon.

WAITING FOR ETHAN by Cynthia Boris: Joyce Erikson has pulled up stakes and moved away from her family to another state where she’s purchased an antique store that she’s planning on turning into a gift shop. She wants to prove that she can make it on her own, but she didn’t count on being haunted by a ghost from the Fifties who has mistaken her for his forever love and refuses to let her go. However, Mack Merritt, single rich construction worker and the most eligible bachelor in town has staked a claim too even against all his better judgment of letting his heart get involved with the haunted and “kooky” new stranger in town. This excellent paranormal romance is also available from Siren Publishing, Inc. http://www.sirenpub.com

WILD by Lori Foster: Continues the Winston Brother’s saga with Zane’s story. This was a usual, good Foster romp. Had great sexual tension, h/h chemistry, with a dash of paranormal and suspense and the assorted eccentric and loving family members from both the h/h sides. Also introduces Luna and Joe from SAY NO TO JOE which I read a while back and loved. Available at your local bookstores or major online bookstores like Amazon.

Books recently purchased: MURPHY’S LAW, by (you guessed it) Lori Foster. This is the sequel to JUDE’S LAW (I TOLD you JL didn’t seem quite finished); MINION, by L.A. Banks. (I had been hearing a lot about this author and series, and since it’s in one of my favorite genres—vampire novel—I couldn’t resist. After reading excerpts and liking the style, I know I’m doomed to get hooked on another (vampire) series. I only ordered the first one, just in case by some long shot, I don’t like it). Ms. Banks has seven books out in the series so far with number eight to be released soon so I’m going to have some catching up to do (with help from my sister who has five of the books and ordered me NOT TO BUY THE OTHERS). I’m sure I’ll be looking forward to The Vampire Huntress Legend as I look forward to Kenyon’s DH ™ series. Another thing I liked about L.A. Banks is she’s a woman of color. That drew me to the books as much as the subject matter (not that anyone can replace Octavia in my heart, but I needed a new author to fill that void and L.A. Banks looks like she’ll fit the bill nicely). Also bought CARAMEL FLAVA (had to see what the competition was like and why Zane had to come up with a CARAMEL FLAVA II); THE BROKEN H, by J.L. Langley (sequel to THE TIN STAR, M/M cowboy romance which loved); THE PINK RIBBON and AN ACQUIRED TASTE, both by Jude Mason (and both with male sub themes...Yummy!); DESERT HEAT (an Ike Payne Adventure by Melodee Aaron); GAME, SET LOVE-MATCH by Sarah Dobbs; CHAIN OF THORNS, by Willa Okati; A DAY AT THE OFFICE by Silvia Violet; VIVA LAS BAD BOYS, by Helenkay Dimon; and JOSEFA'S CURSE by Manuel A. Melendez.

Currently reading: FOR THE LOVE OF PAYNE by Melodee Aaron (Siren Publishing) and A DRUMMER'S BEAT TO MEND by Kei Swanson (Genesis-Press).

So we’ll see how these books pan out. I’ll let you all know if I think they're worth your time

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AVAILABLE NOW from Siren Publishing, Inc.: Genesis has been on the run from her people for twenty-eight years, guarding the cambion Alex Ryan, who doesn't know she exists. But that's about to change when an attempt is made on Alex Ryan's life that leaves his father dead instead and Alex alone in the world….or so he thinks. GUARDIAN SEDUCTRESS: SISTERS OF EMSHARRA 1, erotic paranormal romance (interracial/psychic/shapeshifter/urban fantasy) by Gracie C. McKeever http://www.sirenpub.com/graciecmckeever/gs.asp
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AVAILABLE NOW from Siren Publishing, Inc: Montana Freeborn has been having visions of the "pony-man" since she was a child, her first live encounter with the centaur after a near-death experience when she was five and Seth Phoenix saved her from drowning. More than two decades later, the pair meet again and this time Montana's doing the saving. SPELLS CAST IN SHADOWS, erotic paranormal romance (African-American/psychic/shapeshifter/urban fantasy), by Gracie C. McKeever http://www.sirenpub.com/authors-img/gcm-scis.jpg SIREN TOP SELLER! Now Available in Print! Amazon: http://www.amazon.com/exec/obidos/ASIN/1933563346/sirenpub-20
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AVAILABLE NOW from Siren Publishing, Inc.: “One man wants to Dominate her; the other wants to kill her”...Two competitive and at-odds advertising executives are thrown together when a job assignment and a matchmaking New Age sister of one – who knows each better than they know themselves – decides they are soul mates and perfect for each other. While Dominant Nick Vega and submissive Slany Breeze come to the conclusion that Nick's sister is absolutely right, a serial killer is on the loose and has set his sights on Slany for his special “training program.” TERMS OF SURRENDER: THE MATCHMAKER 2, erotic paranormal romance (bdsm/interracial/suspense) by Gracie C. McKeever
http://www.sirenpub.com/authors-img/gcm-tos.jpg SIREN TOP SELLER!
Available in Print, December 2006! JUST IN TIME FOR CHRISTMAS
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AVAILABLE NOW from Siren Publishing, Inc.: Embittered after her exile from Emsharra, LaMia Enlil meets her match in orphan empath Mateo Diaz, whom she kidnaps and falls in love with. But can he forgive her for causing the deaths of his family years ago? From ancient beings unaccustomed to asking for anything, much more begging for forgiveness, LaMia Enlil nonetheless wants just this from Mateo Diaz, a gifted and unique human male who makes her question the foundations of her Inanna beliefs. PREDATOR’S SALVATION: SISTERS OF EMSHARRA 2, erotic paranormal romance, (bdsm/interracial/psychic/shapeshifter/urban fantasy) by Gracie C. McKeever http://www.sirenpub.com/authors-img/gcm-ps.jpg
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COMING SOON from Siren Publishing, Inc.: Dara Kelly and Samantha Taylor should not have died, but did. And now both women are on the trail of two men – one an abusive, cheating husband-turned-killer, the other a rival bounty hunter whom will not be bested by any woman. Each woman will have her revenge, but at what cost to Caution Foster, the man they both love? IN PLAIN SIGHT, erotic paranormal romance (interracial/reincarnation/ghost/suspense) by Gracie C. McKeever – Coming DECEMBER 2006! JUST IN TIME FOR CHRISTMAS http://www.sirenpub.com/graciecmckeever/ips.asp
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COMING SOON from Siren Publishing Inc.: Even though both are Inanna, Genesis Enki and LaMia Enlil have varying views on how best to serve Emsharra.
When Kalika Enlil entrusts Genesis with the safekeeping of her outlawed child Alex Ryan before her death, Genesis' way is set to take up the New Regime's torch. Only one woman, the leader of the insurgents and Kalika's nemesis and cousin, stands in Genesis's way to protecting Alex from assassination: LaMia.
LaMia does not believe in the New Regime or its doctrines and is willing to do what she must to see it and the alliance between Emsharra and Gaiam fail. She will even go as far as kidnapping and enslaving Mateo Diaz who has already suffered at her hands in the past more times than a human should endure. It's Mateo's misfortune, however, that Genesis and Alex wish to recruit him in Emsharra's Harvesting Program….and Genesis and Alex are LaMia's mortal enemies. SISTERS OF EMSHARRA – Print Collection, erotic romance – bdsm/interracial/paranormal/psychic/shapeshifter/urban fantasy, by Gracie C. McKeever – Coming DECEMBER 2006! http://www.sirenpublishing.com/graciecmckeever/soe.asp
(Will make a great Christmas gift for the erotic paranormal romance lover in your life ...Are we sensing a theme here?)
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COMING SOON Siren Publishing Inc.: "Gale Sinclair is a marriage counselor who has broken the cardinal rule of psychotherapy and fallen in love with one of his clients. Dying in a head-on collision and returning to life in the body of Zoelle Sutherland's estranged husband turns out to be the least of his worries.” ETERNAL DESIGNS, erotic paranormal romance (reincarnation/interracial/suspense), and a NCWA (New Century Writer Award) 2002 Novel/Novella Finalist, by Gracie C. McKeever – Coming Summer 2007 from http://www.sirenpub.com/graciemckeever/ed.asp (Okay, it’s not in time for Christmas, but it could still make someone a great, any-other-occasion gift, LOL)
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Busy three months for reviews and I’ve got a ton of new ones since my last newsletter...ENJOY!

REVIEW EXCERPTS FOR BENEATH THE SURFACE!
“...BENEATH THE SURFACE is the first stand-alone entry in Ms. McKeever’s Matchmaker Series featuring psychic matchmaker Angela Calminetti. Angela and EJ are understandably close as they share a psychic as well as a familial bond, so naturally Angie turns her talents toward her brother first. Prickly Tabitha is a wonderful character whose appeal grows as each layer is pulled back and another facet of her character is revealed. This is really a feel-good love story with slight paranormal elements and with graphic language and spicy sex scenes. This reviewer became immediately engrossed with this tale and slurped it right up in one marathon session. Once again, Ms. McKeever has shown a deft touch with her prose and characterizations and produced a wonderful tale. This reviewer looks forward to the future installments in this series and will enjoy visiting the zany Vega family again and again!” 4.5 Hearts, Leah, for Love Romances and More! To read the complete review visit here: http://www.loveromancesandmore.com/reviews/Sept06/beneaththesurface2_leah.htm

“Beneath The Surface written by Gracie C. McKeever has something for everyone; a strong willed, love-shy career woman, a gorgeous, successful hunk with a large, meddling Italian family, characters with psychic abilities and last but not least, lots of hot, steamy, explicit sex...
For a great escape, pick up Beneath The Surface. It's a well written, entertaining book, but be forewarned, the sex scenes are sizzling.” 4 Cats, Sue Gold, Wild Child Publishing. To read the full review, visit here: http://www.wildchildpublishing.com/content/view/289/101

REVIEW EXCERPTS FOR GUARDIAN SEDUCTRESS!
“This is the first in an exciting new series by a prolific writer of erotica. I look forward to the continuing installments. Particularly enjoyable was the interweaving of the paranormal, erotic, and romance elements with the backdrop of mythological Sumerian spirituality. Ms. McKeever demonstrates her remarkable talent for world-building.” 4.5 Flags, Annie for Euro Reviews. To read the full review, visit here: http://euroreviews.eu.funpic.de/bookdetails.php?book_id=410

“...Welcome to the world of Emsharra, a world set in a parallel universe where the warring Inanna and Sebitu races, both of whom live off of human energy, have formed an uneasy truce due to the depletion of their human food supply. Ms. McKeever has created a vividly imaginative world, complete with its own language and culture, and Guardian Seductress is an impressive introduction into that new world. This story truly provokes the thought of what if there was life out there besides us and we were the prey rather than the hunter. While this reviewer would have liked to see certain portions of the book developed a little further, especially the back story surrounding Alex’s conception and the somewhat contrived instantaneous acceptance of Alex by his royal grandmother, this brief but powerful tale took this reviewer on a wild ride through a fantastical tale that will resonate long after the last page is turned. Genesis is strength personified and Alex proves to be her match in all ways. This story is hot, hot, hot and any reader that likes fantasy and doesn’t mind explicit language and sex will absolutely love this tale as much as this reviewer did!” 4 Stars, Leah, Love Romances and More! To read the full interview visit here: http://www.loveromancesandmore.com/reviews/Sept06/guardianseductress_leah.htm

“...Sisters of Emsharra, Book 1, Guardian Seductress was a great book. It was fun to read and kept me entertained throughout the entire story. Gracie C. McKeever not only paints the picture of a wonderfully creative world but keeps the characters reactions to outrageous circumstances true to life. I couldn’t put this one down. The attraction and love that blossoms between Genesis and Alex was hot enough to feed a volcano and was strong enough to stand the tests of time. They came up against many walls during their adventures together that just couldn’t stop their combined efforts. I highly recommend this book to anyone who likes a little political intrigue and otherworldly beings with their erotica.” 4 Kisses, Tara, Two Lips Reviews. To read the complete review, visit: http://www.twolipsreviews.com/

REVIEW EXCERPT(S) FOR PREDATOR’S SALVATION!
Wow, wow, wow…This one, my first review for PS absolutely blew me away! No it’s not a five, but the content of the review? Whoa. I was doing the Snoopy Dance, the Thank-God-It’s-Friday, Kick-the-Habit dance and had Happy Feet and was bursting with love after reading this. Every major point the reviewer made struck a chord in my character-driven-writer’s heart (“complex”, “vulnerable”, oh, and let us not forget “aggressive alpha male”! Whoa!) I just took exception with one tiny statement (and you’ll probably guess what it is when you read the excerpt below), but you can’t have it all, so I left it in for balance . Hope you enjoy as much as I did (though I’m sure there’s no way you could):

“...Ms. McKeever has a sharp, sexy book with Predator’s Salvation. The second book in the Sisters of Emsharra series, at first I had a bit of a problem finding my place in her world. Once I got my bearings on what was happening I sat back and enjoyed the ride. Mateo is a complex character. He reeks of heartbreak and seems fragile but my first impression of him was that he is an aggressive alpha male waiting to break out of a civilized form. LaMia appears to be, quite frankly, the bitch from hell. At first I was appalled at what she intended to do to Mateo and how she went about it. Yet, through Mateo and his connection to her I began to understand her heartbreak and vulnerability. Their passionate, boiling sex made my toes curl and I was panting. The switch from each of them taking dominant and submissive roles had me running for my significant other and even then a cold shower. I was particularly impressed with LaMia’s physical dominance of Mateo and the heat that poured off of both of them from the pages. The plot moved at a very good pace but I felt Mara’s appearance was unnecessary. Whereas, the reappearance of Genesis and Alex will make those fans of Ms. McKeever’s first book in this series very happy. Overall, I loved the world Ms. McKeever and look forward to going back to read Guardian Seductress and any future works involving this world.” 4.5 Stars/Orgasmic, Julie Esparza, Just Erotic Romance Reviews to read the full review visit here: http://www.justeroticromancereviews.com

“...The Sisters of Emsharra, Book 2, Predator’s Salvation was exceptional. I loved this book. There was not only love, life, explosive sexual tension, friendship, political intrigue, mystery, forgiveness and a plot that will keep you involved from the start to the finish. I recommend you read The Sisters of Emsharra, Book 1, Guardian Seductress, so as to fully understand everything going on in this book and why the characters are where they are, but this book does stand alone just fine. Gracie C. McKeever creates an interesting world with characters that must work hard to find the balance that will let them co-exist together. I highly recommend this book to anyone.” 4.5 Kisses, Tara, Two Lips Reviews. To read the full review visit http://www.twolipsreviews.com

“...This is one hot tamale of a good story! At first, I thought it would not be realistic, for how could he love the murderess of his family, but I was pleasantly surprised. The author did an excellent job of portraying Mia in a realistic fashion so that the reader is able to understand and even relate to her motives. The love scenes are scorching, yet sensual and loving at the same time. The world building is creative and easy to grasp, which made the book that much more enjoyable. This is the first book of Ms. McKeever’s I’ve had the pleasure to read; it will certainly not be the last!” 4 Coffee Cups, Regina, for Coffee Time Romance. To read complete review, visit here: http://www.coffeetimeromance.com/BookReviews/Predatorssalvationssistersofemsharra2.html

“...Welcome back to the world of Emsharra! Ms. McKeever’s triumphant return, PREDATOR’S SALVATION, features the main protagonists in the first story, Alex and Genesis, as well as their enemy Mia, whose story this is. One caveat for the reader: if one has not read the first book in this series, Guardian Seductress, then this book may seem confusing, as it is truly a sequel that picks up soon after the conclusion of book one. This reviewer found this story to be a fascinating look into the life of LaMia Enlil, who truly seemed to be unredeemable in Book 1. Ms. McKeever has done a marvelous job of humanizing Mia and making her sympathetic. Mateo is a remarkable man whose empathic abilities make this story work as well. Their sex scenes are inflammatory they are so hot! The exciting conclusion to this story was noteworthy as well. For those readers of erotic fantasy, Ms. McKeever’s tales of Emsharra are not to be missed! Highly recommended!” 4 Stars, Leah, Love Romances and More! To read the complete review, visit here: http://loveromancesandmore.com/reviews/Oct06/predatorssalvation_leah.htm

REVIEW EXCERPT(S) FOR SPELLS CAST IN SHADOWS!
“...Spells Cast in Shadows is quite a befitting title. It really sets the mold for the theme of the story. Because of the magic that has occurred in the darkness of shadows, Montana and Seth are thrown obstacle after obstacle but their attraction to each other is strong. And they both are determined not to be without each other. Within this book, readers will see that the forces of evil will do anything to try and prevail over that which is good. But some times it takes a higher force to maintain the goodness. This is the second book that I’ve read by Gracie McKeever. She does wonderfully when describing scenes in her stories and those scenes make for incredible visuals. Gracie McKeever is a talented author and you will want to read her work! This book is a definite must read. So, what are you waiting for? Go and buy the book!” 5 Flags, Chantay for Euro Reviews To read the full review visit here: http://euroreviews.eu.funpic.de/bookdetails.php?book_id=597

“...Gracie McKeever’s imagination may well be unbounded, and once again she renders a richly tapestried contemporary fantasy, with vividly illustrated characters, a romance to-die-for, and sizzling sensual peaks. One story of Ms. McKeever’s will readily convince any reader to keep reading her books, and Spells Cast in Shadows is certainly no exception.” 4.5 Kisses, Frost for Two Lips Reviews. To read the full review, visit here: http://www.twolipsreviews.com/content/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=144&Itemid=36

“...Gracie McKeever has written a marvelous modern-day fairy tale, complete with a classic good vs. evil struggle of epic proportions. Because of her clever use of foreshadowing, the relationship between a human and a centaur is immediately believable. Montana is as sympathetic a heroine as this reviewer has read about in recent memory, one who has overcome all of the obstacles life has placed in her path with strength and grace, and without becoming bitter and withdrawn. Seth possesses a great combination of arrogance, wisdom and vulnerability, and is a true alpha male hero figure. The sexual tension between Seth and Montana is so palpable that steam fairly rises from the computer screen. Ms. McKeever’s language is somewhat graphic but not offensively so and is definitely part of the plot rather than gratuitous cursing and use of common slang for sexual terminology. Her excellent prose brings both her characters and her settings to life in the reader’s imagination. While billed as erotic in nature, the erotic elements occur naturally in the flow of the story and are not extreme or overly explicit. This reviewer enjoyed this tale and looks forward to more from Ms. McKeever. Highly recommended!” 4 Hearts, Leah, Love Romances and More! To read the full review, visit here: http://www.loveromancesandmore.com/reviews/Sept06/spellscastinshadows_leah.htm

REVIEW EXCERPT(S) FOR TERMS OF SURRENDER!
“...Gracie McKeever as always delivers heartwarming, empathetic characters, coupled here with an intriguing mystery and a plot line throbbing with both sensuality and danger. Her character delineations are excellent, and few readers won’t simultaneously be enraptured with both Nick and Slany and their personality conflicts disguising their true attraction. Angela is a winning personality of her own and any reader would be thankful to have a big sister with love for the extended family, such as her. Terms of Surrender is a story well worth reading, and works as a stand-alone novel, but reader, don’t do yourself the disservice of missing the entire The Matchmaker Series.” 4.5 Kisses, Frost, Two Lips Reviews. To read the full review, visit here:
http://www.twolipsreviews.com/content/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=520&Itemid=36

“...The beauty of this novel is its depth. There are so many aspects of this story that it easily entices any number of readers from across genres. The suspense is an alluring draw to keep people reading from beginning to end in one sitting. The romance is amazingly open and honest. We get a chance to explore a dominate/submissive relationship as it develops between Slany and Nick from the very beginning.
Without a doubt Ms. McKeever has written a must read for everyone. Terms of Surrender is the best of multiple genres and should appeal to those who enjoy books with conflict and strong story lines.” 4 Stars, Kimberley Spinney for E-CataRomance. To read the full review, visit here: http://sensual.ecataromance.com/reviews?type=&id=433

“...TERMS OF SURRENDER is not for the faint of heart and readers will find themselves melting in their seats from the heat of the love scenes. Dominant does not even begin to describe Nick and his powerful passion will leave you breathless. Slany has a time giving in to Nick, but when she does it really pays off. Nick's past comes back to haunt them when his stalker returns and wants to hurt Slany. Gracie McKeever is sensational author and her stories are always full of explosive plots and mesmerizing characters. I can't wait to see what he next book will bring.” 4 Blue Ribbons, Angel, Romance Junkies Reviews http://www.romancejunkies.com

“...Terms of Surrender is a mystery that has more threats to the main characters than that of a long-tailed cat in a room full of rocking chairs. Ms. McKeever has written a very well thought mystery that has lots of guessing as to who is the bad guy ... The author does a good job of building the relationship between Slany and Nick. She also has put a lot of thought into Nick's family and Slany's friends. Finally, she has written some of the hottest sex scenes that I have read in a long time. You are definitely going to need the ice water and the toys for this one.” 4 Stars/Orgasmic, Oleta M. Blaylock, Just Erotic Romance Reviews http://www.justeroticromancereviews.com

“...TERMS OF SURRENDER is the stand alone second book in Ms. McKeever’s Matchmaker series featuring psychic Angela Calminetti and the her siblings the Vegas. Ms. McKeever does an excellent job in providing just enough backstory from the first book Beneath the Surface to make this story flow well and enjoyable to readers who may not have read that story. Nick and Slany are very appealing characters, and Ms. McKeever does a wonderful job revealing experiences in their childhood to early adulthood that have shaped them into the individuals they are today, most notably why Nick and Slany would need to be in a highly regulated relationship such as a dominant/submissive one. Readers must be cautioned that this story does feature a D/s relationship, but it is non-violent and Ms. McKeever provides great details of how that type of relationship should function and makes it a vital part of the plot… The sex scenes are well written and extremely hot! The only improvement this reviewer would suggest is the return of more of the family interaction that was featured in the first book of the series in future entries. Once again, Ms. McKeever has written a great tale that all readers of erotic romance should love. Highly recommended!” 4 Hearts, Leah for Love Romances and More! To read the full review, visit: http://loveromancesandmore.com/reviews/Nov06/termsofsurrender_leah.htm

“...I found this tantalizing tome to be utterly enthralling. Usually, when a plot involves a mysterious killer, I can pick out the murderer long before the secret is revealed. Terms of Surrender is so well written that I had no idea who the culprit was until the moment it was meant to be known. The hero's dyslexia adds a realistic sense of poignancy to this enchanting tale. I hope Ms. McKeever gives us more stories like this one really soon. I know that I, for one, really want to read more.” 4 Coffee Cups, Susan, Coffee Time Romance. To read the full review, visit here: http://www.coffeetimeromance.com/BookReviews/Termsofsurrender.html

NEW AND USED BOOKS IS STAYING PUT!
An exciting new book and author format, the same people who have served you for over 15 years...

Due to the overwhelming response to the news that NPOB was closing, they have listened to their customers and the authors and are staying open . . . in an exciting new format.

Read more about the latest developments at http://www.newandusedbooks.com and keep abreast of your favorite authors and new books.

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COMING SOON: Divorced and love-crossed Evelyn Vega gets more than she bargained for when she receives a two-week vacation package to a dude ranch as a birthday present. She thinks gorgeous cow boss Jason Makepeace will be the perfect vacation fling, but Jason has wife, kids and picket-fence written all over him. MANIFEST DESTINY: THE MATCHMAKER 3, erotic paranormal romance (contemporary/May-December/light bdsm) – Also a spin-off of SPELLS CAST IN SHADOWS, by Gracie C. McKeever – Coming April 2007!
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MILES TO GO by Gracie C. McKeever, a Byte^Me teen novel available from Awe-Struck E-Books, Inc. http://awe-struck.net/AUTHORS8/mtgo.html Distributed internationally through online booksellers. Price: $4.50 Usual, non-sale price (download) $8.75 (disk, price includes S&H) – “Chris is a talented and rising young track star who wants to make it to the nationals and break world records. He'll get these both if he can shake the specter of a crack-addicted older brother and the more clear and present danger of a steroid enhanced teammate with a mean score to settle. Tori is an intelligent non-conformist skirting the fastlane and hiding secret pains behind a wall of foul-mouthed bravado and false indifference. She hates jocks but wants to show Chris that there's more to life than running. Innocent and courageous, embittered and sexually precocious--together Chris and Tori will discover that they have miles to go... “
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THIS ISSUE’S NOVEL EXCERPT: BENEATH THE SURFACE, Available from Siren Publishing, Inc. http://www.sirenpub.com/graciecmckeever/scis.asp (If you’re still not in the mood for the Holidays yet, this scene involves a poignant and sensual Christmas celebration between the hero and heroine…enjoy and see the review excerpts for this Siren Top Seller this issue)!

Excerpt (ADULT CONTENT)

She spotted him as soon as she cleared the landing, standing at his door, leaning against the jamb, arms folded across his well-built chest, wearing a Santa hat, green Polo shirt tucked into a pair of blue Levi’s and looking more sexy than any human being had a right to look.
“Merry Christmas little girl! What can Santa give you this Christmas?”
“The question is, what can this little girl give Santa.” She grinned sensuously as he blushed, her heart tripping over itself anew.
As explicit and raw as he could sometimes be, from having sex in public to his raunchy sense of humor, she found his tender boyish vulnerability just as entrancing.
Tabitha held up the shopping bag holding a can of eggnog and a bottle of Cask and Crème Liqueur. “I didn’t know how you were fixed for traditional fixings and didn’t want to come empty-handed.”
He wrapped his arms around her as she neared, kissed her slow and deep on the lips before pulling away to hold her at arm’s length and stare at her. “There’s nothing empty about you, Tabitha Lyons.” He slid a hand down, twined his fingers through hers and drew her into the loft. He waved to his little Charlie Brown tree with a flourish. “Just waiting for decorating.”
Oh, God, she couldn’t speak and it felt like her chest was going to explode.
Tabitha pushed the grocery bag into his hands and rushed to the bathroom.
“‘Was it something I said?”
She closed the door, squeezed her moist eyes tight, took several deep breaths and tried to get a hold of herself. Sheesh, she’d been on the verge of hyperventilating, crying in front of him for no good reason except an attack of mushiness!
Tabitha turned on the faucet, splashed cool water on her face, took several more deep breaths and prayed she didn’t have a breakdown in front of him.
It’s just a tree, she told herself. Just a tree.
Despite the fact that she’d never had one growing up, that her mother had never let her father get one because she didn’t want to “buy into all that commercialism shit,” this tree was no big deal. No big deal at all.
Yeah, right.
When she emerged from the bathroom a couple of minutes after going in, Eric was anxiously waiting at the door.
“You okay?”
She nodded, sure her eyes were red or that some other part of her body gave away her instability—he was a body language expert after all—but he didn’t address her sudden disappearance and for that she was more than grateful.
“Thanks for the spirits and especially the eggnog. I forgot to get some.”
“I could drink it all year round if they sold it and since I don’t drink—”
“Don’t tell me you’re going to make me drink alone.”
“I, uh…”
“C’mon, today’s a celebration. You have to have at least one drink with me.” He took her by a hand, led her out of the bedroom and into the living room. “So, have any experience decorating a tree?”
“A little,” she lied, but figured with her eye for style and fashion she could wing it. “At least it’s not a big one.” It wasn’t quite Charlie Brownish, just a shade shorter than she was.
“The big one is at my Mom and Dad’s. I figure since we’re going over there for Christmas, I wouldn’t get a big one for just us.”
“We are?”
“Are what?”
“Going to your parents’ for Christmas.”
“Hey, I’m sorry. I just assumed…” He paused, took both her hands in his and gave her a serious look. “Will you come with me to my parents’ house for Christmas?”
“Uh, yeah sure.”
“Please hold down your enthusiasm until tomorrow.”
She laughed, heart pounding a mile a minute. She tried to talk herself down, convinced she could handle a major holiday with the Vegas. She’d made it through a surprise party after all. Christmas should be a piece of cake.
“Oh, and while we’re at it, I might as well invite you to my parents’ anniversary party.”
Tabitha hedged. They were wading out of girlfriend waters and into something entirely deeper, more committed and permanent.
“C’mon, you might as well go for broke since you’re coming Christmas.”
“When is it?”
“New Year’s Eve. We always have a little shindig for them with the immediate family, but this one’s going to be a big one, their fiftieth.”
“Wow.”
“We can go over there, bring in the New Year, and still go out and party if you want.”
Did he realize that going to his parents’ for a fiftieth wedding anniversary was party enough, and more than she ever did on New Year’s? More significant and real.
Against her better judgment she finally gave in and said, “Okay.”
“Okay you’ll come? Or okay, you want to party?”
“I want to come. I’m not much for partying though.”
“We’ll have to put a stop to that if you’re going to hang around us.”
“You and your big family.” She smiled, realizing she still had on her coat when Eric put his hands on her shoulders and turned her around to remove it.
He took it over to the coat tree, hung it up and made his way back to her. “So, are you hungry? Or do you want to build up your appetite working on my pitiful tree?”
Tabitha walked over to the tree standing in a place of prominence behind his sofa, and circled it a few times. “It’s not pitiful. It’s got potential.” She turned to him. “Where are the decorations?”
He pointed her to a stack of boxes several feet away, and for the next hour they dug in filling out the tree with gold and silver tinsel, colored lights and balls.
Eric handed Tabitha a light-up angel and she reverently placed it at the top of the tree, stepped back and waited as he cut off the living room lights and cut on the Christmas tree lights.
I will not cry. I won’t…God, she’d had no idea she had such a squishy streak!
Tabitha started when Eric sidled behind her and slid an arm around her shoulders.
“Nice work,” he murmured.
“I had help.”
He turned her in his arms and kissed her, mouth tasting of the sweet and potent liqueur she’d brought, almost as intoxicating as his natural flavor and scent.
She groaned and opened to him completely, enfolded him in her arms, holding him close as she met his tongue with fervor and his erection insistently pressed against her belly.
“I want to hold your naked body in my arms so bad, Tabitha. You don’t know how long I’ve wanted to feel you against me again.” He backed her against the wall nearby, quickly going to work on her blouse’s buttons.
When he talked like that he made her feel like the most desirable and secure woman in the world, though she knew the truth. That he couldn’t love her near as much as she loved him, and that he wouldn’t hang around for as long as it took him to realize he’d made a mistake in dumping the exciting and exotic Ms. Secret, for the boring and staid Tabitha Lyons.
Eric parted her blouse, exposing the top of a sexy lace teddy. He splayed a hand against her abdomen, reverently stroked the black and silver nylon spandex with a thumb, material blocking his way to her skin, pulled down one strap and cup with his other hand, revealed a naked breast and bent his head to greedily suckle.
She closed her eyes and arched against him as he completely removed her blouse, tossed it aside, jerked the teddy down to her waist, then unbuttoned and unzipped her trousers.
Tabitha frantically worked on the button and zipper of his jeans, reached into his fly once it was open, freed and grasped his hard shaft as if it were a life preserver.
“God, I can’t wait to have you,” he growled.
“You don’t have to.” She squeezed him for emphasis, caressed and teased the slit in his head and absorbed his groan as he leaned in to kiss her mouth again.
He stripped her of pants and teddy in short order, picked her up in his arms and balanced her on his thighs as Tabitha twined her legs around his waist and arms around his neck.
“Take me now, Eric. Right here!”
“I’m going to.” He fiercely bit and sucked her neck as he poised her directly over his jutting cock, and Tabitha knew that she would have to wear a turtleneck or scarf for the next few days to cover the mark of ownership that would surely be cropping up on her throat.
She was so wet, he barely had to thrust before he was sliding through her sheath all the way to the hilt. He alternately rolled and pistoned his hips in silent desperation, lightly biting and licking her pebbled nipples as Tabitha met his plunges with her own strong thrusts.
A few minutes later, she came with a keening whimper, face pressed against his shoulder, teeth firmly sinking into the soft flesh where shoulder and neck met as he violently shuddered and climaxed an instant behind her.
She kept her head on his shoulder as he walked her to the bedroom, lay her on the bed, and proceeded to finger and lick her to multiple orgasms again and again for the next few hours.

For more excerpts of Beneath the Surface visit Siren Publishing at: http://www.sirenpub.com/graciecmckeever/bts.asp

THIS ISSUE'S E-PUBLISHER SPOTLIGHT: http://www.torquerepress.com/ I haven’t yet purchased anything from this publisher, but I’ve had my eye on them for a while. Some of the titles sound really scrumptious and sexy and look and sound like work I would love. All titles feature gay, lesbian or transgender characters. While works are not graphic, they all contain homosexual romance and focus on the interaction between characters (the latter especially marks my kind of fiction read). Will let you all know when I read something from Torquere Press and tell you what I think! In the meantime, if any of you beat me to it, give us a shout-out and let us all know how you like the books.

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AVAILABLE NOW! The fix is in when older sisters Angela – a New Age practitioner who shares her brother's telepathic abilities – and Evelyn decide to play Cupid and hook their brother EJ Vega up with Evelyn's personal shopper. From here, what starts as a professional relationship will gradually escalate into something much more when the free-spirited, "gifted" author preparing to go on his first national book tour, enlists the services of the uptight and skeptical Tabitha Lyons. BENEATH THE SURFACE: THE MATCHMAKER 1, erotic paranormal romance (contemporary/psychic/interracial/light bdsm). http://www.sirenpub.com/graciecmckeever/bts.asp SIREN TOP SELLER!
Amazon: http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/1933563184/102-5235251-9271348?n=283155
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THIS ISSUE'S AUTHOR SPOTLIGHT: The spotlight this issue is on another outstanding Siren author – Sage Burnett. Author of the Siren Top Selling Rodeo Cowboy Series titles, MELANIE’S PROTECTOR, KARLY’S DRIFTER, and JOSIE’S HEARTBREAKER among other titles, Sage has won this author over as a fan. I read the series in one day and love Sage’s voice and story-telling ability. Although all the cowboys are expectedly rugged, sexy, and lovably silent types, my favorite was Rex in JOSIE’S HEARTBREAKER. Charmingly old-fashioned but not afraid to show how he feels (at least not too afraid) Rex could be my heartbreaker any time . If you like hunky cowboys, strong heroines and sensual/sizzling romance, I’m sure you will love Sage’s books too. Also available from Siren, LOVE’S REDEMPTION. Check Sage out at http://www.sageburnett.com

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NEW LIFE INCOGNITA: A young black man is shot down in the streets in a drive-by. But a mistake has been made. Kelly shouldn't have died. So he's returned to Earth…in the body of a young comatose white woman married to a hot looking Latino narc cop. Can Kelly resolve the questions surrounding his death? What will happen to Amire, the woman he loved in his previous life? And, most important, can he resolve his marriage – now that he's a woman named Dagny – to another man? New Age Paranormal Urban Romance (interracial/psychic/reincarnation/wiccan) by Gracie C. McKeever Available from Fictionwise http://www.fictionwise.com/ebooks/eBook36736.htm
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LOVE ROMANCES AND MORE INTERVERVIEW!

Q. How long have you been writing? What and/or who inspired you to write?

A. I’ve been writing since as far back as I can remember, about seven years old. I can’t nail down any one inspiration for my writing, except that I’ve always loved to read and make up stories.

Q. How do you come up with the premises for your books? Do you generally write paranormals or do you vary your genres?

A. Most of my stories are character- rather than plot-driven so I usually come up with my characters first, sometimes just the name or an image of whom I want to write about. After this, I free-write until I come up with an appropriate what-if situation and premise to suit my characters.

Out of my eight books currently available and the seven due for release in the coming months, all have some paranormal element except two (Dancing in the Dark, a contemporary romance, and Miles to Go, a YA romance). Among the paranormal books, my work falls under other sub-genres such as urban fantasy, contemporary/mainstream or AA-multi-cultural romance. Aside from these variations, I generally do write paranormals… To read the interview conducted by Leah in its entirety, visit here: http://loveromancesandmore.com/interviews/interview_graciemckeever.htm

ROMANCE JUNKIES INTERVIEW!
Favorites and Fun Questions

Q. What is your favorite part of fall?

A. My favorite part of fall is getting back that hour of sleep I lost in the spring!...

Hi Gracie and Welcome! Thank you so much for giving us the opportunity to interview you for Romance Junkies.

Q: First, can you let us know what projects you are currently working on?

A: I just finished work on a novella targeted for an upcoming anthology. It’s a stand-alone, and book 3 in the SISTERS OF EMSHARRA series. My current work-in-progress is MANIFEST DESTINY THE MATCHMAKER 3. I’m also developing stories for the last two siblings in the Vega clan which will bring the total book count for THE MATCHMAKER series to five…unless some of the siblings’ children start talking to me. I’m also looking at submitting something to Zane’s upcoming anthology Chocolate Flava II. It has a deadline of January 1, 2007, so I’ll probably be busy with that this holiday season… To read the interview conducted by Kim Atchue-Cusella in its entirety, visit here: http://208.109.92.234/artman/publish/article_6874.shtml
THIS ISSUE'S NEWSLETTER CONTEST: Okay, we had a nice turnout for the last contest and I am looking forward to offering up another book this issue. This time I’m offering…you guessed it, a copy of PREDATOR’S SALVATION (electronic, PDF version). To enter for your chance to win, just send an e-mail with your name and e-mail address to gwiz10@optonline.net with PREDATOR’S SALVATION in the subject line. Contest runs until December 20, 2006. 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 once). AUTHOR SHALL NOT BE HELD RESPONSIBLE FOR ANY TECHNICAL DIFFICULTIES THAT PREVENT TIMELY RECEIPT OF AN ENTRY AND/OR RESPONSE. IF YOU DO NOT RECEIVE A RESPONSE, THEN THAT MEANS I DID NOT RECEIVE YOUR ENTRY. Author reserves the right to publish winner's name on webpage(s) and in the newsletter. August/September 2006 winner of GUARDIAN SEDUCTRESS: Jodi Shadden. Congratulations Jodi and I hope you enjoy your prize!

GIVEAWAYS/GOOD DEALS/SHAMELESS PROMOTIONS and/or SITES THAT NO (ROMANCE) READER SHOULD BE WITHOUT:
AWE-STRUCK E-BOOKS – “Publishes ebooks in Romance, SF, SF Romance, Regency, Western Romance, New Age, Inspirational, Teen Fiction, and Historical, and we are unique to the reading world with our Ennoble titles that feature heroes with disabilities. All our ebooks are available in HTML, PDF, Palm, Pocket PC, Rocket; some titles are also available in eBookman, and Hiebook.” http://www.awe-struck.net

BLACK LITERATURE.COM – Your home on the web for books by, for and about Black people. http://www.blackliterature.com

BOOK-REMARKS – The website that promotes books written by or about African-Americans. http://www.book-remarks.com

EARTHLING PRESS – 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."
ENCHANTED RAMBLINGS – “Our review section is continually updated, reviewing the latest offerings from both print and e-publishers…We also play host to authors in our virtual bar-The Rambler's Inn. Feel free to drop by and enjoy an e-soda, while reading the latest interviews.” http://www.enchantedramblings.net/

EUROREVIEWS: “To bring WORLDWIDE attention to both print and e-Books, whilst encouraging the interest in Dutch publishers in the American reviews industry.” http://euroreviews.eu.funpic.de/index.php

FALLEN ANGEL REVIEWS – New Releases, Reviews, Interviews, Contests, Authors Pages, What the Authors are Saying! Author Extras http://fallenangelreviews.com/

FICTIONWISE – “Excellence in e-Books” http://www.fictionwise.com

GENESIS SUN: Here for your enjoyment is the next installment of the Genesis Sun
http://www.genesispromotions.com/Newsletters/Newsletter73.php Know someone who loves to read? Tell them to come and join the Genesis Sun to get the inside information on some of your favorite authors and contests.

JUST EROTIC ROMANCE REVIEWS: “The sensual side of romance” http://www.justeroticromancereviews.com/home.html

NEW AND USED BOOKS: http://www.newandusedbooks.com – Features new releases, reviews, interviews, and contests. Don’t forget to check out their new format!

PARANORMAL ROMANCE (or PNR): “New Worlds Are Our Oyster…Join us if you dare…” http://paranormalromance.writerspace.com/

R.A.W.SISTAZ (Reading and Writing Sistaz): Literary Group and Online Book Club. One of Writer’s Digest 101 Top Websites for 2006! From the Website: “…main goal is to provide information to the African-American Literary Community regarding books, authors, events, and other industry news. We offer our services and our sites free of charge, as avenues to promote literacy, to encourage our authors to continue following their dreams and to facilitate the open exchange of literary information; basically connecting both readers and writers.” Check them out at http://www.rawsistaz.com

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

ROAD TO ROMANCE http://www.roadtoromance.dhs.org/index.htm -- For Readers and Writers of romance fiction. Reviews, interviews, contests links, and much more! Also -- FREE BOOK offers from http://roadtoromance.dhs.org/freestories.htm The Free Stories Feature has been updated and given its 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.

ROMANCE JUNKIES – The name says it all. For readers addicted to all kinds of good romance…check out your favorite authors, contests, reviews, interviews and up-to-date romance news. One of Writer’s Digest 101 Top Websites for 2006! http://www.romancejunkies.com

ROMANTIC TIMES BOOK REVIEWS – The Magazine for Fiction Lovers – Books, Authors, Magazine, News, Resources, Message Boards http://www.romantictimes.com

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

SIREN PUBLISHING, INC. – “Quality erotica romance for the sophisticated reader” http://www.sirenpub.com

SPECROM: 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. Visit Speculative Romance Online http://www.specromonline.com/ Click "Join SPECROM", then "Become a Member" to subscribe/gain access to the newsletter.

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.

THE ROMANCE STUDIO – “The romance genre today”. Latest romance news, contests and information about your favorite romance authors and the latest romance books. http://www.theromancestudio.com

THE ROMER REVIEW – “A diverse and proactive mix of resources, book reviews, and literary works to inform the African-American Community” http://www.theromerreview.com
WRITERSPACE – Stay informed about lots of your favorite writers (and regular monthly contests) 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

ODDS AND ENDS:
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

If you've ever read any of my books and enjoyed them (I hope, I hope, I hope), why not consider hopping on over to Amazon.com, BarnesandNoble.com, or Fictionwise.com and writing a reader review. I'd be ever so grateful!

Thoughts and comments on the newsletter and/or its contents? Drop me a line (especially if it’s a compliment ) and let me know what you think. Seriously. I’d like to hear from you. Who knows? Maybe I’ll create an Op-Ed/Reader’s Comments Section just for that. Hmmmm, that’s an idea…
And if you get a chance, visit some of my and my publisher’s sites below.

Thanks for subscribing and see you next issue!

GCM—
http://www.graciecmckeever.com
http://www.myspace.com/graciecmckeever
http://www.blog.myspace.com/graciecmckeever
http://sirenauthors.blogspot.com/
http://groups.yahoo.com/SirenBooks

"To give anything less than your best is to sacrifice the gift." –Steve Prefontaine