Monday, May 12, 2008

Diary of a Narcissistic Bloodsucker has a new cover


In August, it will be two years since I sold Diary of a Narcissistic Bloodsucker to The Wild Rose Press. In honor of that anniversary, they've given my story a new cover. They will always have a special place in my heart because they were the first pub to buy something I wrote (well, there was one other before that, but they went out of business before my story could debut). This story is still one of my favorites. The heroine, Zara, is so very naughty.

Wednesday, April 30, 2008

I'm up for "Best New Voice, Fiction" and there's not enough hours in the day


Well, cool. My book, THE VAMPIRE SHRINK, has been nominated for a Benjamin Franklin award from the Independent Book Publishers Association. If I were a cat right now, I'd be stretched out on my back with all four paws in the air, making that "merrrowwww" sound. (I'm housesitting and taking care of 4 cats. What an education!)

I just started a new job as a therapist at a mental health center (hey, at a certain point, everyone needs a little financial security) in addition to my work at the addictions center, seeing my private clients and trying to do the edits on book 2. My hair is suddenly much more gray than it was a couple of months ago.

Wish me luck!



Tuesday, April 15, 2008

HorrorFest!!


I'll be participating in panels, signing books and generally behaving wildly at HorrorFest this Friday, Saturday and Sunday in Denver. Stop by and say hello! Here's the link:

Monday, April 07, 2008

What's your most memorable personal paranormal experience?


I was at a gathering over the weekend with some other people who are interested in the metaphysical and paranormal. As we sat around, drinking margaritas and nibbling tortilla chips and salsa, the discussion turned to odd experiences (anything utilizing the word "odd" is bound to be a personal favorite!). I always appreciate the opportunity to be reminded that consensus reality is an illusion and the universe is much more amazing and strange than we usually allow.


Speaking of "odd," has anyone seen that bizarre show "Dexter?" It's a Showtime production being re-run on network TV, Sunday evenings. Very unusual. The hero is a serial killer.


Anyway, somewhere between margarita #2 and #3, I shared an unusual experience from my eccentric life. I was 20 years old, working as a singer in a rock and roll band in Detroit. The entire band had rented an old house in a questionable -- but historically fascinating -- part of the city. The house was clearly haunted. (I'm the one who made the decision to rent the house. The moment I walked inside with the owner, I knew it already had several inhabitants. Ghosts were an everyday occurrence in my childhood.) I was sharing a bed with the drummer -- who would soon be my first husband and the sperm donor -- er, father -- of my darling son. The drummer's father had died when my bedmate was a young child and I'd seen photos of his dad (very Antonio Banderas-ish). Meanwhile -- the house had a basement with a locked entrance. Bwwwwaaaaa. You know I had to find a way down there. I had the guys in the band remove the door by its hinges and we all crept down the dilapidated staircase. (Cue the scary music.) It was very creepy and dark down there. The entire basement was filled with discarded, ancient furniture, broken mirrors, boxes and crates (big crates -- like the dirt-filled ones Dracula used to transport himself across long distances! ARGH!). One lone, dim light bulb swung from a cord. We'd all just seated ourselves among the ruins, making a pitifully transparent attempt to show how brave and unafraid we were, preparing to ignite the tip of an illegal substance, when a voice ordered "GO AWAY!" The sound seemed to reverberate from several locations at once. My stomach clinched and I got a BAD FEELING. This wasn't Casper. We practically trampled each other to get up the stairs. From that moment, there were constant noises -- thumping, and what sounded like muffled voices -- coming from the basement. I didn't venture down again, but what did happen was that my awareness of "otherness" was blasted open. One night shortly after our basement adventure, I woke in the middle of the night to find the drummer's father standing at the foot of the bed. Something about my open-ness must have sent an invitation and he answered it. My talking to the spectral soon-to-be father-in-law woke the drummer, who sat up and rubbed his arms, saying he was freezing. I hadn't noticed the low temperature until he mentioned it. The ephemeral Antonio only spoke for a few minutes, giving me a rather standard message for his son, who had gone back to sleep by the time the conversation ended. (I should say that the drummer was very used to me talking to people he couldn't see. I don't think he ever believed me, but he humored me. Maybe that's why I married him?) Our time in the historical house didn't last very long. We got a gig in North Carolina and hit the road. The drummer's dad never did appear to me again (but my second husband's mother was a regular visitor, years later). But, something about that house expanded my awareness and I've never been able to close the door entirely since then. I have to agree with Stephen King about houses . . .


How about you?

Saturday, March 22, 2008

Award of Excellence Contest Finalist!

I found out today that THE VAMPIRE SHRINK is a finalist in the Mainstream With Romance Elements category of Colorado Romance Writers' Award of Excellence Contest! What a great surprise! YAY!

Sunday, March 09, 2008

Contest! Got any ideas for vampire neuroses? Undead dysfunctions? Bloodsucking diagnoses?

Thanks so much to everyone who participated in this contest! The suggestions are awesome! I wrote everyones' names on pieces of paper, put them in one of my manifestation boxes, and selected two winners. Here they are:
D. Renee Bagby wins the tote bag
Amberkatze wins the download of UNDEAD IN THE CITY

You're the best for helping me!!
Lynda


I'm working on my third book in the Kismet Knight, Vampire Psychologist series and I'm brainstorming ideas for various psychological afflictions Kismet's nocturnal clients can exhibit in that book. I'd love your input! And, as incentive, I'm giving away a Vampire Shrink tote bag. Hey, everybody needs one, right? So, what would you like to see a vampire visit Kismet's therapy office for (professionally)? I've already used fear of blood in book one and a couple others in book two (I'll let you read the book and find out which ones!!), but I'm open to all suggestions. Be creative! Post your suggestions here and I'll select one comment on April 1 and the poster will win the tote bag. As of March 27, I'm also going to give away a pdf download of "Undead in the City" as an additional prize.


Thanks!!


Sunday, March 02, 2008

A "Recommended Read" at Dark Angel Reviews


The Vampire Shrink was rated a "recommended read" by Amanda Haffery at Dark Angel Reviews. You can read the whole review here (just scroll down through the Feb. 25 post):



Saturday, March 01, 2008

First Sale Stories: Jennifer Rardin, "Once Bitten, Twice Shy"


Welcome to Paranormality! Thanks so much for letting me interview you, Jennifer!

Lynda: What is the name of your first paranormal book?

Jennifer: My first book is called Once Bitten, Twice Shy.

Lynda: When was it published?

Jennifer: It hit bookstores and Internet outlets in early October 2007. Here's a cool aside -- I just learned it's going to be translated into French and Hungarian. I've been trying to imagine my protagonists with French accents. So far it just makes me giggle.

Lynda: Which publishing house?

Jennifer: I'm published by Orbit, which is a brand new imprint of Hachette Books USA.

Lynda: What's it about?

Jennifer: Once Bitten, Twice Shy is about two CIA assassins who are great at their jobs and lousy at their personal lives. Jaz Parks and her boss, the vampire Vayl, have never failed in a mission. And while the tragedies in their pasts haven’t broken them, they have had a somewhat crippling effect. Fortunately their partnership is more than professional, and together they may just find a way to be whole again.

Lynda: What was the inspiration for the book?

Jennifer: Several ideas came together at the same time to inspire the story. I wanted to explore a character who’d survived the death of not one, but multiple dear ones in a single blow. I wanted to talk about how we let the past control us so overwhelmingly, and the torture we sometimes go through to free ourselves from it. I thought it would be fun, and even cathartic, for people made tense by headlines full of terrorism to read about two ass-kicking American operatives whose job it is to knock those kinds of threats to their knees. And I wanted to insert some humor into the whole exercise, because I was tired of reading dark, depressing stories where nobody ever laughed.

Lynda: Is it part of a series?

Jennifer: It sure is. In fact, my publisher thought it would be best to release the first three books in quick succession. Which is why Once Bitten was followed by Another Once Bites the Dust in December 2007. And Biting the Bullet just came out early in February. The fourth book in the series, Bitten to Death, is scheduled to release August 12, 2008. And I’m presently writing the fifth, One More Bite, which will come out next spring. (Pause for breath.) Wow. Just reviewing it makes me tired. The upside? My next vacation is going to be absolutely stellar

Lynda: What do you like most about your paranormal characters?

Jennifer: I like Jaz’s voice. She’s sassy, cynical, prone to violence. And yet there’s a vulnerability and humor about her that emphasize her humanity despite her growing paranormal abilities. What appeals to me most about Vayl is his aura of mystery. Even to me he remains somewhat of a shadowy character. Very hard to pin down, yet fascinating as a result.

Lynda: What’s your favorite aspect of the book?

Jennifer: What I enjoy most about Once Bitten is the pacing. It’s a very quick read, because the story is designed to pull you from page to page to the point where you don’t want to put the book down. Many readers have told me they do it in one sitting. So, for their sakes, I’m kinda glad it wasn’t longer!

Lynda: How long have you been writing fiction?

Jennifer: Should we get technical? I mean, really, since I was twelve. But I’ve been doing novels since I was about twenty-five. The first three were crap. However I think they needed to be written just so I could gain the experience I needed and finally find my voice.

Lynda: Is this your first paranormal manuscript?

Jennifer: My first two novels were straight fantasy. My third was much more in this vein, what my publisher calls urban fantasy. And everything I’ve done since has contained paranormal elements. What can I say? I like a little freaky in my literature!

Lynda: Is paranormal your main focus?

Jennifer: I wouldn’t call it a focus so much as a joy. You write what you love, and this is it right now. I’m living a regular life, right? Why would I want to write about regular stuff? That would bore me. And I figure when I’m bored, so is the reader.

Lynda: What attracts you about the paranormal characters/situations you write about?

Jennifer: I like how they solve problems. They don’t call the plumber, or the cops. They whip out the mojo. Too cool!

Lynda: How long did it take to sell your book, from the time you finished your manuscript?

Jennifer: It took me about a month to write a really kickass cover letter/synopsis combo. Then another fourteen to find an interested agent. Once she began trying to sell the book it only took her about four months to place it, which she informed me was a very quick turnaround. Since then everything related to the book has been fast compared to most, so I still don’t have a good feel for how the timing usually works. But that’s okay. I’m just grateful to be published!

Lynda: Did you have an agent when you sold your first book?

Jennifer: Yes. I felt if I couldn’t convince an agent the manuscript was worth selling, it probably wasn’t good enough to get a publisher interested on its own. Plus, my understanding was that the big houses wouldn’t even consider unagented material. And I figured I might as well think big—at least to start with.

Lynda: Do you recommend that a pre-published writer focus on finding an agent first, or do you think it’s OK to submit directly to the publisher?

Jennifer: I’d definitely go the agent route to begin with. If that tact fails, then I’d try submitting directly to publishers. You just have such a better chance selling with an agent, because you’ve already convinced a publishing-savvy person that your story is worth the time and effort it takes to get it into readers’ hands.

Lynda: Thinking about the notion of “It’s always darkest before the dawn,” what was the lowest point in the process for you? Was there a time you almost gave up?

Jennifer: Yeah, I actually stopped writing altogether for a few months when I was in my mid-twenties. Just decided to give it up because the constant rejection was making me miserable. What I discovered was that not writing was worse. I developed a sort of spiritual constipation that only writing could relieve. So I realized I’d been doing it for the wrong reasons, and when I took it up again, I wrote from a new perspective.

I’ve always been very driven to “succeed.” My problem has been how I define that word. Writing for money alone, or putting out a product just because I thought it would be publishable, resulted in bland, boring material. I learned that the only way I can “succeed” is to forget about being published altogether, and let go of the notion that I must produce something one of my old professors would’ve touted as a “masterpiece.”

I have to write out of love. Love for the craft, for the characters, the story, and the reader. It’s not always easy, especially now that I’ve been published. Distractions abound now: sales numbers and reviews, interviews, blog posts . . . That kind of stuff made my fourth book especially difficult to do. But I’ve been able to refocus for my fifth one, and hopefully my regained perspective will stick with me as I create another of the kind of adventures I’d enjoy reading if I went into a store to buy a book.

Lynda: You don’t have to mention numbers, but did you get a nice advance?

Jennifer: Yes. It was enough to enable me to quit my part-time job as a grant-writer and write full time at home.

Lynda: What was the process of revisions/rewrites like?

Jennifer: For Once Bitten, Twice Shy the process was intense. I had revised the book several times already by the time it reached my editor. But she took me through a great many more, helping me sharpen the characters and the plot. A couple of times she even apologized for, as she said, “torturing” me with all her leading questions -- which, of course, required a lot of thinking and even more writing. I was surprised by how many rewrites I did throughout the publishing process. I figured I’d do a couple and be done. Nuh-uh. I revised right up to the final edit. All told, including the ones I did before the sale, I probably rewrote the book twenty times. I can imagine some people out there going, “Gag! Twenty times? Are you crazed?” Maybe. But I never got frustrated, because every time it just got better. And my editor was asking intelligent questions. Where she was confused I knew other readers would be as well, and the worst sin you can commit as a writer, as far as I’m concerned, is to yank readers out of the story. Confusing them is just one way to do that. There’s a whole laundry list of no-nos, and I’ve probably hit them all at one time or other. Which is why I’ve learned to cherish the rewrite.

Lynda: Did your agent suggest changes?

Jennifer: Yeah, she suggested that I write a new opening chapter. It wasn’t one that stayed with the final revision. That was written almost at the very end of the process. But we all knew the chapter I began the book with wasn’t how the book should start. Readers needed some sort of background before we threw them into the story. Which is how I came up with the prologue.

Lynda: What was it like, working with the editor at your publishing house?

Jennifer: It was a little weird at first, because she was trying to figure out my process and edit accordingly. So the first couple of edit letters she sent weren’t as helpful as the next few, once she figured out how I like to revise. Having said that, she is just the most marvelous person to work with. She’s not at all overbearing or nitpicky. Her approach is mainly to ask questions. Why did you do this? How come the characters are dealing with each other in this way? That’s her signal that I haven’t provided enough explanation. She also points out where I’ve confused her. Where I need to offer more detail on the world I’m creating. And she’ll always tell me I haven’t done quite enough scene-building. That kind of writing bores me the most—it’s pretty technical, yeah? So I save it for last and generally don’t offer enough comments about the background to make her happy until the final revision.

Lynda: Do you have any words of wisdom for us regarding rewrites/revisions?

Jennifer: I’d suggest that this is a great point to let go of the idea that this piece of work is your baby. Be wide open to suggestions, because anywhere your editor is confused or has questions is a place your reader will probably be stopped as well. You don’t have to make every change they suggest. I don’t. But at least consider them seriously. These folks really know their stuff.

Lynda: Were there any surprises for you about the contract you signed?

Jennifer: No. I read it over very carefully, and my husband is extremely familiar with contract work, so he did as well. I thought it was cool how the rights were all so well detailed and the numbers lined out. Writer’s contracts can’t always have been so well defined. But they’ve got them down to a tee now, thank goodness. I’m delighted with mine.

Lynda: Do you get a lot of help marketing your book, or do you have to do it yourself?

Jennifer: I’m so incredibly fortunate to have two publicity professionals working with me. Before I’d ever sold a book I really expected to have to hire one myself, out of my own pocket. And I would’ve done so if Orbit hadn’t already had these great folks on staff. Because publicity is so key to an author’s success. Alex Lencicki is the online marketing pro, and Katherine Molina focuses mainly on print stuff, though they do work closely together. They’re just terrific and have helped me immensely so far. I always try to remember to thank them for the work they do with me, and still don’t think I’ve thanked them enough.

Lynda: What’s your best marketing advice?

Jennifer: Never underestimate the power of the Internet.

Lynda: Did you have input about your cover?

Jennifer: No. That was the one item I would’ve liked to have power over in my contract, because I understood how important covers could be to the success of the books. But as a new writer I felt it wasn’t my place to ask. Better to save that for the second, or maybe third contract when I had the track record to give me some leverage. Luckily Orbit has a fabulous crew in their art department and I loved the covers they came up with.

Lynda: Have you done any book signings? If so, what were they like?

Jennifer: No, I haven’t. Orbit’s publicity folks feel it’s counterproductive at the moment. I’m still such a new name that people would be unlikely to show up to a signing because they wouldn’t recognize me yet. To be honest, this has been a huge relief for me. My biggest nightmare is sitting alone at a long, empty table while people walk past as if I didn’t exist. Ugh!

I think when I finally do a signing I’m going to bring stuff to give away, just so I have a reason to stop people and talk to them. Or maybe I could hire a couple of Chippendales dancers to drum up a crowd. They could wear leather thongs and those criss-cross ammunition belts. But somebody would probably sue me for false advertising since there’s, like, no graphic sex in my books. At all. (Just couldn’t go there—my kids read them after all.) Shoot, now I’m back to the freebies. Anybody for bubblegum and pencils?

Lynda: If you could go back and do something differently, what would that be?

Jennifer: I’d have started writing about vampires sooner. Not that I think I would’ve been published more quickly. I think I had to write those three unpublished novels just to learn the craft. But I would’ve had a lot more fun doing them if they’d contained vamps!

Lynda: What was the biggest happy surprise in the process?

Jennifer: The fans. They are so adorable! I can’t even believe how much they love these characters! And I’m surprised how many have written me to ask if I’m planning on doing more books after the fifth one. It just inspires me to do my very best every time I sit down to the laptop.

Lynda: What are your writing plans for the future?

Jennifer: I’m not really sure! I’ve developed a pitch for a new series, which is with my agent right now. So when I’m done with One More Bite on May 1, I may begin working on that. However, if the Jaz Parks books really start to fly off the shelves, my editor may decide she wants to do a few more in that series. I had also nearly finished a book for young adults called Shadowstruck when Once Bitten sold, so I’d really love to get that done, polished, and out into the marketplace.

Lynda:What advice would you give to all the pre-published writers out there?

Jennifer: 1. Surround yourself with people who believe in you and support your dreams. 2. Do everything you can to improve your writing for the rest of your life. Don’t ever assume you’re “good enough.” 3. Never give up.

Lynda: How can readers find out more about you?

Jennifer: I love to hear from readers! You can find me at my website, http://www.jenniferrardin.com/. I also just set up a myspace page at www.myspace.com/jenniferrardin. And if you just want to drop me an e-mail, feel free. My address is jennifer@jenniferrardin.com.


Monday, February 25, 2008

Introverted Writers, Promo Rock and Upcoming "First Sale Stories"

Funny about labels. I always knew I was weird. I'm the kind of person who appears to be an extrovert -- I can get up and sing or present or talk -- but the truth is that I'm incredibly introverted. Painfully shy in some situations. A basket case. Put me in a room filled with people I don't know and I zoom to the nearest corner, where I huddle until I can flee the area. Some of the intense reaction comes from my ability to sense (and be overwhelmed by) energy. You'd think that after so many years of dealing with this issue -- studying it, contemplating it, living it -- I'd have a handle on it. Not so.

Doing book signing events alone is torture.

I went to a lovely event tonight. A networking thing. Several writer types in Boulder organized a networking event at a wine bar. I made my way to the table closest to the wall, where I sat and gathered friendly faces. Instead of walking around, schmoozing, I sat perched on my seat, enjoying the company of people I already knew. I've lived in Boulder for so long, and have been "out there" as far as advertising my various services, that I've now managed (despite my social strangeness) to accumulate many acquaintances. I'm really appreciating them tonight.

And, I'm finally starting to accept my eccentricities. It's okay that I'm shy (terrified? anxiety-riddled?).

We all do what we can.

Last night I met with 3 other author/musicians. We jammed on old rock tunes and had a fine time. It's possible the author band might actually become a reality. Fingers crossed. It would be so much fun to perform at various conferences. Sign me up!

Also, more "First Sale Stories" are in the works. Stay tuned . . .

Are you an introverted writer?

Sunday, February 17, 2008

And a good time was had by all . . .


Melissa Mayhue and I had a wonderful time yesterday, meeting, greeting and signing books at Borders Books in Longmont, Colorado. It was a grand day!

Thursday, February 14, 2008

Excerpts from "Undead in the City" and "The Vampire Shrink"


Here's an excerpt from "Undead in the City," written under my pen name, Hera St. Aubyn. I wrote a few "erotic paranormal romances" under an assumed name, because I thought my therapy clients would be discombobulated by finding out their therapist wrote spicy tales. That was before I discovered what the range of erotic paranormal romance actually was. Let's just say I discovered mine was tame in comparison. But I really enjoyed writing this novella. While Kismet Knight, Ph.D., (the heroine of THE VAMPIRE SHRINK) is an idealized version of my therapeutic persona, the main female character in this book is based on my years as a musician in Detroit. I thought that photo of cool shoes and the electric guitar was a perfect fit for Tempest.

A burst of frigid air hit Tempest as the front door opened. Thinking a few more customers might be braving the sudden ice age to show up for the last set, she was disappointed to see only a solitary man step inside. He shook his hair away from his face, sending a shower of melting snow down the walls, and straightened the collar on his coat. The entryway was directly in front of her at the far end of the club, and luckily, there were a lot of overhead lights, so she got a good look at the new arrival. Even with his long, dark hair snow-covered, wet, and plastered against his shoulders, she felt her breath catch -- and not from the cold air. He had to be the most gorgeous man she’d ever seen. Tall, with light skin and piercing eyes. She appreciated the cut of his leather duster and suspected it was high dollar. What the hell was a fancy number like him doing in a crap hole like this? Maybe he was another one of those mafia jerks. They were always showing up to extort one kind of payment or another.

Hidden in the darkness of the stage, she followed him with her eyes as he strode purposefully to the booth tucked back in the far corner. The bartender, along with every other life form in the smoky room, had gone completely still as the newcomer passed. Pausing next to the booth, the man removed his coat, shaking it to dislodge the melting snow and ice. A smile spread across Tempest’s face as she noted the form-fitting leather pants and muscle-hugging, light-colored t-shirt he wore under the expensive coat. It didn’t take much creativity to imagine how it would feel to run her hands over that muscled expanse, but Tempest had creativity and imagination in abundance. So much, that her body stirred in satisfied anticipation of the unexpected possibility that had just magically offered itself for later that night. She would’ve been happy to bounce on Stan again, but as far as men went, new was always better than familiar. She’d learned that the best thing about her looks was being able to use them to pick up any guy she wanted. Pitiful that males were so easily controlled, but it was just as well, since she so enjoyed being in charge.

She watched the handsome stranger fold himself into the booth, and out of the corner of her eye, she saw Chaz, the bartender, spring from behind the bar. The previously laid-back -- read stoned -- fellow practically fell over his own feet in his frantic attempt to reach the leather man. He hovered near the booth, wringing his hands, nodding energetically at whatever the new customer was saying. Chaz finally pointed toward the pay phone near the shelves of liquor and speed-walked in that direction, leaving the man alone.

Tempest realized she’d been holding her breath during Chaz’s strange performance. Of course, she’d only met the bartender that day, so she had no idea what his normal behaviors were. But still, the vibe he gave off around the stud muffin was unusual, almost as if he was afraid or something. She could feel the thrum of his anxiety from her observation post. No surprise, really. Most of the businesses in the inner city were mob controlled. Maybe the eye candy in the booth was high-up on the motherfucker feeding chain. She smirked. A lesser woman might take a pass on rolling around with a member of The Family, but she always enjoyed a challenge. None of the assholes had gotten the upper hand with her yet, and she felt confident she could call the shots with this yummy specimen, too.

Click here to buy:

http://www.loose-id.net/detail.aspx?ID=461

Here's a snippet of a scene between Psychologist Kismet Knight and the gorgeous, 800-year-old vampire Devereux, who has shown up at her house. She's dressed in her pjs and Miss Piggy slippers.

I’d just poured a glass of liquid bliss in the form of white wine when the doorbell rang.

I turned on the porch light and squinted through the peep hole. Either there wasn’t anyone there, or my visitor was hiding out of view. Or some other option I didn’t even want to think about.

After the events of the last week, none of the possibilities were good news.

I chose the “when in doubt, do nothing” approach and was rewarded by a repeat performance of the doorbell tones.

Leaving the chain engaged, I cracked open the door barely enough to scan a small area, which basically wasn’t in the least helpful. I still couldn’t see anyone there.

I was just about to close the door, when it occurred to me I should ask an obvious question.
“Who’s there?”

“It is I, Kismet. Devereux. Please let me in.”

Devereux? If it was Devereux, why was he ringing the doorbell? Why didn’t he just pop in unannounced, uninvited, as always? Why didn’t he simply swoop in like an intrusive bat and snatch me off to another creepy-crawly adventure?

“Why are you here?”

I was batting a thousand with Questions for Dummies.

“I have come to make love to you.”

“What?” I croaked. Couldn’t say I’d heard that one before.

Since I was still staring at the floor in front of my door, I recognized the black leather boots that stepped into my line of vision.

I raised my eyes but could only see more black and a flash of what could’ve been blond hair.

Apparently, he could also see the floor on the other side of the door because he said, his voice oozing amusement, “What are you wearing on your feet?”

I glanced down at the dual Miss Piggys and felt the need to defend them. Her?

“None of your business. What do you really want?” Although, I had to admit I’d rather enjoyed the previous answer.

“I spoke the truth. I have come to make love to you. Please open the door.”

How arrogant! And you just assume that’s okay with me? That I’m just going to open the door and make another deal with the devil? That I’m even remotely interested in having sex with you after our last trip to the Twilight Zone?

“How do I know it’s really you? You usually materialize out of thin air.”

“As you wish.”

I heard that familiar little pop sound, felt a rush of air and suddenly knew he was behind me. I turned, hands on my hips.

“Hey! That wasn’t an invitation!”

A dazzling smile spread across his face. “You forget I have that handy little mind reading ability.”

He bowed from the waist, wearing a variation of his usual leather-god outfit. “I rang the doorbell because I thought you would prefer me to enter your home the normal, human way. I understand you are weary of the drama that has taken over your life. I do not wish to contribute any further to your discomfort.”

He brought his hands around from behind him. They held a huge bouquet of pink roses and a ludicrously large box of chocolates.

“Gifts for you, my love.”

He bent forward and brushed my lips lightly with his. The familiar, delicious scent of him took my nostrils hostage and my lips instinctively puckered in anticipation of more of the same.

He burst out laughing.

“You have pigs on your feet!”

He thrust the roses and box of chocolates into my hands, scooped me up into his arms and walked us over to the couch. As soon as he was seated with me on his lap, he reached over and lifted my feet, inspecting the colorful porcine coverings.

“I have never seen such a thing. Do modern humans wear all animals on their feet or only pigs?”

The longer he stared at the fluffy piggy shoes, the harder he laughed. He thumped the snout with his thumb and first finger and pulled on the tail.

As annoying as it was to be laughed at, something about his mirth was infectious and I found myself chuckling, which eventually gave way to snorts and belly laughs.

Once again, whatever resolve I’d built up against Devereux had leaked away in direct proportion to the number of minutes I spent gazing at his perfect face. It was a waste of time for me to argue that I was immune to his charm, or his eyes, or whatever it was that caused my normal inhibitions to catch the first plane outta town.

At some point I must have put the flowers and chocolates on the coffee table, because my arms were free to ensnare his neck. Which then led to my being flat on my back in my Freud pjs and my piggy shoes with an absurdly gorgeous vampire on top of me, attached at the lips.

So much for a quiet, relaxing evening.

We made out like teenagers on the couch.

As always with Devereux, I couldn’t stop touching him. Couldn’t run my fingers through his long, silky, aromatic hair enough. Couldn’t feast on his lips even remotely enough. Couldn’t imagine anything more important than having him inside me.

Even counting my close call with Alan, I hadn’t technically had intercourse for two years and the muscles in my vagina contracted in gleeful, moist anticipation.

He lifted his hot mouth from mine long enough to whisper, “Will you invite me to your bed, my love?”

Geez, the guy’s voice should be a registered weapon. It could take you down in three seconds.

“What happened to all the mind reading? I’ve been sending out the welcome committee for the last thirty minutes.”

He raised himself up just enough so I could see his smile. “I know, but it is important to me to hear the words from your own sweet lips.”

He somehow managed to lift himself off the couch in a flowing motion while scooping me up at the same time.

“Shall we?”

He carried me up the stairs, the twin Piggies bobbing up and down, but my mind was no longer on footwear. In fact, my entire brain was focused on the fastest way to get us both naked.

(to be continued . . .)

Tuesday, February 05, 2008

Writing the second book in a series: Why is it harder? (Or, is it just me?)


Technically, I'm still writing the second book in my Vampire Psychologist series. My deadline (extended, because I had massive resistance to finishing this book) is this Saturday. It's now do or die (so to speak).

My experience of working on this second book has been totally different from writing the first.

I think, because I simply didn't know any better after I switched from writing nonfiction to fiction a few years ago, I just wrote what I wanted and then had good crit partners and positive feedback from various agents and publishers to encourage me. I sailed through the process, oblivious. Really oblivious.

I read something JK Rowling said about writing her second book, and how (of course hers is a trillion times more scary a process) she had writer's block for 5 weeks while trying to write the second book in her series. She said all the publicity, reviews, etc. about her first book had paralyzed her. She was afraid the second wouldn't live up to, or would be treated more harshly than, the first had been (her Harry Potter series definitely wasn't universally loved -- especially at first).

On a microscopic level, that's what happened to me.

I've talked about reviews in another post, and how I had an initial wave of good ones, then a few others showed up. While I expected a wide range of feedback on an intellectual level, I found myself contracting. Losing confidence. Becoming creatively constipated.

As my first deadline (the one that got extended) approached, I became more and more cautious in my writing. I was trying to write by committee. Soon, I couldn't even sit in front of the computer.

I've gone back and forth between holding true to my vision of my characters, the tone of the story, my genre-blending tendencies and trying to please others. Let me tell you, that's ulcer material.

Then, factor in a cover for my second book that might cause confusion, and I'm popping Rolaids like candy.

Did any of this happen to you? Were there differences in your process of creating books #1 and #2 in a series? Any suggestions for coping? (grin)

Okay. Stop blogging, Lynda, and finish the book.

UPDATE: Feb. 7, 2008, I FINISHED!

Saturday, February 02, 2008

Psychologist Kismet Knight, Ph.D. Answers Your Questions


Psychologist Kismet Knight, Ph.D., main character of THE VAMPIRE SHRINK, is here to answer your questions.

What do you want to know? What burning psychological questions are festering in your mind?

Keep in mind that she's not only a qualified therapist who can address your life issues. She also specializes in vampires.

She'll be checking in throughout the next few days.

The doctor is in . . .

Saturday, January 26, 2008

Borders Books Signing in Boulder




I had a great time today, signing books at Borders Books in Boulder. I sold a lot of books and met someone who said she was my biggest fan. (Wish I would've gotten her photo! ) Thanks to everyone who came over to support me! I really appreciate you. Wow, what a day.

Monday, January 21, 2008

THE VAMPIRE SHRINK book giveaway!!


AuthorIsland.com is giving away a copy of my book today! You can enter the drawing by going here:



Wednesday, January 09, 2008

Research: Cover Question


Informal Research: If you saw this cover on a book in a store, what kind of book (without reading the blurb) would you think it was? Please leave a comment.
January 10: Thanks to everyone who left a comment or who emailed me. Much appreciated!

Monday, January 07, 2008

Book Signing, Preditors & Editors Readers Poll and Email Workshop



I'll be doing a joint book signing with Carrie Vaughn, author of the Kitty the werewolf books this Sunday, January 13 at 3 p.m., Denver Book Mall (32 Broaday, Denver, CO).

Stop by if you're in the neighborhood!

Also, THE VAMPIRE SHRINK has been nominated in several categories in the Preditors & Editors Readers Poll. If you'd like to vote for me, you can find my book in these categories:

http://www.critters.org/predpoll/

Novel, Romance
Novel, Sci Fi/Fantasy
Novel, All Other
Book Cover Art
and "Undead in the City," (written as Hera St. Aubyn) is nominated under Novel, erotic.

Thanks so much for your support!

And, if you'd like to explore your inner world, transform your patterns and deepen your storytelling skills, you might consider enrolling in my email workshop. It's called, Healing Through Writing: Becoming a Main Character in Your Own Life. You can find details on my therapeutic website: http://www.lyndahilburn.com

Tuesday, January 01, 2008

Inspirational & Motivational Quotes for 2008


Here are some motivational/inspirational quotes. Do you have any to share?

Thousands of candles can be lighted from a single candle, and the life of the candle will not be shortened. Happiness never decreases by being shared.
Buddha

There are two types of people in this world, good and bad. The good sleep better, but the bad seem to enjoy the waking hours much more.
Woody Allen

Life is either a daring adventure or nothing. Security is mostly a superstition. It does not exist in nature.
Helen Keller

Here is the test to find whether your mission on earth is finished: If you're alive, it isn't.
Richard Bach

Desire is the starting point of all achievement, not a hope, not a wish, but a keen pulsating desire which transcends everything.
Napoleon Hill

Opportunity dances with those who are already on the dance floor.
H. Jackson Brown Jr.

In the middle of difficulty lies opportunity.
Albert Einstein

You must do the thing you think you cannot do.
Eleanor Roosevelt

Go confidently in the direction of your dreams. Live the life you've imagined.
Henry David Thoreau

You are never given a dream without also being given the power to make it true. You may have to work for it, however.
Richard Bach

Whatever you can do or dream you can, begin it. Boldness has genius, power, and magic in it.
Goethe

The future belongs to those who believe in the beauty of their dreams.
Eleanor Roosevelt

If you're going to be thinking, you may as well think big.
Donald Trump

Throw your heart over the fence and the rest will follow.
Norman Vincent Peale

Enthusiasm is a volcano on whose top never grows the grass of hesitation.
Kahlil Gibran

Success is the ability to go from failure to failure without losing your enthusiasm.
Winston Churchill

People are always blaming their circumstances for what they are. I don't believe in circumstances. The people who get on in this world are the people who get up and look for the circumstances they want, and, if they can't find them, make them.
George Bernard Shaw

If one advances confidently in the direction of his dreams, and endeavors to live the life which he has imagined, he will meet with a success unexpected in common hours.
Henry David Thoreau

The tragedy of life doesn't lie in not reaching your goal. The tragedy lies in having no goals to reach.
Benjamin Mays

The great thing in this world is not so much where we are, but in what direction we are moving.
Oliver Wendell Holmes

Believe nothing. No matter where you read it, or who said it, even if I have said it, unless it agrees with your own reason and your own common sense.
Buddha

Imagination is everything. It is the preview of life's coming attractions.
Albert Einstein

All that we are is a result of what we have thought.
Buddha

Follow your bliss and the universe will open doors for you where there were only walls.
Joseph Campbell

Whether you think you can or you can't, either way you are right.
Henry Ford

Creative people are committed to risk. The creative person always walks two steps into the darkness. Everyone can see in the light . . . the real heroes delve in the dark.
Albert Einstein

Sunday, December 30, 2007

I Appreciate the Good Things


My friend told me today that my local Borders Books has had a display of THE VAMPIRE SHRINK up near the cash register through the xmas holiday. I just had to drive over and take a photo. I so appreciate when good things happen. I'll be signing in that store on January 26 at 2 p.m.




Saturday, December 15, 2007

Growing a Thick Skin

I hadn't really intended for this photo to be a self-portrait or anything (grin). I was just looking for a picture to use in this post about needing thick skin, and this guy (he's probably taking a nap, but I'm projecting that he's temporarily overwhelmed) works. I especially love the horn.

I try not to read the reviews posted on various sites, because I really do understand they're one person's opinion. And, as I've been told over and over, it is ridiculous for me to get my feelings hurt by reviews (but I still do). After all, this isn't PERSONAL. It's business. Yes. I know. I think my soft, gooey middle (not just talking about my spare tire, here) is why I'm a good counselor/psychotherapist. I don't think my sensitivity will ever go away. But I'm trying to practice some skillful denial.

I'm very curious about how others deal with the "growing a thicker skin" issue. Do you have any mental tricks you use to keep confidence high in the face of such wide-ranging opinions? What are your coping techniques? Please share!

Sunday, December 02, 2007

Winter Solstice Contest




AuthorIsland.com is hosting a Winter Solstice contest for me. The prize is a copy of THE VAMPIRE SHRINK and more wonderful chocolate from The Rocky Mountain Chocolate Factory.
To enter, go to:
click on:
"contests"
Happy December!

Sunday, November 25, 2007

Blubbering Like a Baby


I went to see the feel-good movie, "August Rush" this afternoon and sat there sobbing through the last quarter. Yes, it's predictable. Okay, and cliched. But it was wonderful. I cried because it reminded me of what it was like when I felt that way about music. I was a weird kid (already covered that in other posts), but another strange thing about me was my music ability. My parents were poor, so not a lot of attention was given to my potential skills. I played several instruments in elementary school, was given piano lessons free by the son of a preacher at a neighborhood church and sang since I started breathing. For years, there was nothing but music for me: studying it, listening to it, playing it, singing it, dreaming about it. As I got older (and made stupid choices), I switched from studying/singing classical music to rock and roll (not one of the bad choices). I also acquired every bad habit a stupid teenager can acquire (definitely several bad choices). Anyway, I managed to turn myself from an almost-prodigy child to a slacker teenager, who only used my singing skills to get attention (I think I already covered my father issues an in earlier post, too). Long story shorter, bad habits and stupid decisions tarnished my beautiful music. So, that's why I cried. Watching that sweet little boy bliss out from the sound/vibration/frequency of music is so familiar to me. I sincerely miss it.

And, by the way, the vampire from "Moonlight" was in the movie in a small role. He was actually pretty good and still pleasant eye candy. He spoke with his Aussie accent. Very cool.

Sunday, November 18, 2007

Slide Show: Images From The Vampire Shrink


Thursday, November 15, 2007

What's a YA? Is it the same as "Teen"?





Thanks to everyone who posted and who emailed suggestions!
Here's the name I pulled out of the hat to receive one of my ebooks (the ebook of your choice, which can be seen on my website):
Colleen McEuen!!!

The main reason I resisted reading the Harry Potter books long after everyone else gave in to the obsession, was because I don't generally like kid books. Or kid tv/movies. That included teenage books/movies/tv, too. I had lots of prejudices about the ridiculous nature of those things. At least the standard ones I'd been exposed to here in the USA. (Although, I really enjoyed "The Neverending Story" when I took my son to see it years ago. I went right out and bought him the book. And I loved movies like "The Lost Boys." Maybe there had to be a simultaneous adult plotline in order for me to enjoy it. Or maybe it was the clever humor.)

What I noticed about the HP books was the maturity of the young characters. Nobody was whining for the latest trendy shoes, or the most absurdly expensive cell phone. Instead, they dealt with weighty issues. And the kids weren't sexualized.

Anyway, I have a point. Really. After devouring all the HP books, I had to rethink my ideas about the Young Adult category. (Another limiting idea I had about books targeting a younger audience was that they'd be "sweet," or morally rigid. Not my thing.)

I recently read Stephenie Meyer's "Twilight" vampire series, P.C./Kristin Cast's "House of Night" vampire novels and "Vampire Academy" by Richelle Mead. I enjoyed them all. In fact, maybe because the books don't contain a lot of sex, they can explore deeper and/or more interesting themes. I liked them much better than a lot of the best selling adult vampire novels I've read lately. More character focus.

When asked if I'd consider writing a YA, I always said I couldn't imagine it. Now that my education is expanding, who knows what can happen?

Do you have any recommendations for great vampire/paranormal YAs? How would you define "YA"? Leave a comment and I'll randomly select a name to give away a download of one of my ebooks (you can see them on my website: http://www.lyndahilburnauthor.com/) this Sunday evening.

Saturday, November 10, 2007

Moonight On Its Way Out? Torchwood Continues.



Don't quote me, but I read somewhere that "Moonlight" won't be returning. That makes me sad. Not because it's a good show. (Although I do find the lead male appealing.) But because it's a vampire show and a paranormal show and they just drop like flies. "Afterlife" on BBC America ended after one season. Then they gave up on "The Dresden Files" without even a good go. I haven't heard anything about the fate of "Blood Ties." I momentarily freaked today when I was watching the latest episode of the first season of "Torchwood," and the announcer said something about there only being a few episodes left. What? Another paranormal/fantasy show biting the dust? I googled "Torchwood" and discovered that season 2 is being filmed even now as I type. I wasn't sure if I was going to like this show or not, but turns out I do. So, I'm glad it will be around longer. Who knows how long it will take season 2 to reach the US. I don't have HBO, so I won't be watching the Sookie vampire show on that premium channel. I hope it floats.

Monday, November 05, 2007

I'll Be Featured On Marta Acosta's Blog!

HERE'S THE WINNER OF "THE VAMPIRE SHRINK" BOOK DRAWING ON MARTA'S BLOG:
RAE L

THANKS SO MUCH TO EVERYONE WHO PARTICIPATED. YOU'RE THE BEST! (AND A SPECIAL THANKS TO MARTA!)


Marta Acosta has a Q&A posted on her blog about me!

Stop by and check it out.

http://martaacosta.blogspot.com

We'll be giving away a copy of THE VAMPIRE SHRINK!

(Also, Marta has a "First Sale Story" here on my blog!)

Saturday, November 03, 2007

Chocolate Winner Announced! And some other news (grumble, grumble)


First, the winner. I cut up tons of little slips of paper, wrote all the participants' names on them and picked one to receive the chocolate from Rocky Mountain Chocolate Factory!

The winner is: Kelly Stemple

Congratulations, Kelly!!

Thanks so much for sending in suggestions. I had at least a hundred emails and comments with incredible possible titles. Thanks to everyone who took the time to share ideas.

Now, the other news.

And I fully acknowledge that this is all my fault (waiting too long to discover my over-used title).

My publisher (and the distribution company) said it's too late for me to change the title of my second book. They've already begun advertising, and the title, "Dark Harvest" is on pages in the backs of many of Medallion's other authors' books.

Instead, Medallion has suggested (since we can't change the title) a sub-heading on top. Not sure what it will be yet, but something like:

"Psychologist Kismet Knight reaps her own . . ."

or something

I actually did choose one of the submitted titles for another book. I won't tell which one right now, because I fully intend to use it in the future. The funny thing was that as soon as I received it the first time, I got about 10 other emails with the same suggestion. Great minds think alike! When I use that title, I'll thank all of the submitters in the acknowledgements of that book.

So, my humble thanks again to all of you. Your suggestions were incredible: creative, funny, dark, sensual -- everything I love!
Thank you, thank you!
p.s. THE VAMPIRE SHRINK is now available everywhere!

Wednesday, October 24, 2007

My Author Event at Boulder Bookstore, Oct. 23