Wednesday, December 31, 2008

Happy New Year!



Wishing you all a New Year filled with health, happiness and romance!

Sunday, December 28, 2008

Free story

My short holiday story is now up and available for download. It's a sweet, somewhat ghostly tale -- and a sequel of sorts to DREAM WALK.

I hope you enjoy Spirits of Christmas. :)

Wednesday, December 24, 2008

Christmas Eve


The stockings are hung by the chimney. The gifts are wrapped and ready, but still in their hiding places. The ham and turkey are in the fridge, and the oven sits quietly in anticipation.

The children are all happy, excited and antsy -- they know the Big Kahuna (aka S. Claus) is coming tonight. They have visions of toys dancing in their heads and long for the dinner that is to come. Their mouths water at the thought of warm cinnamon rolls and bacon they know we'll have for breakfast tomorrow ... a meal that will come exceptionally early at our house. ;)

And through it all, I feel this sense of peace... a twinge of satisfaction, knowing another Christmas will be a success. They'll get some of what they wanted -- some things they never thought of, as well. But they'll be happy. They will do the present dance and sing Christmas carols.

Then the letdown happens. And though we know to expect it, that sneaky, blue feeling will settle over me like a fog. It's all part and parcel of the event.

But we have more to look forward to: A New Year. New goals to reach for ... new experiences to share ... new stories to tell ... new opportunities to grow and celebrate.

Life is an amazing adventure. May you all enjoy every day of it. Have a blessed Christmas and a happy, healthy New Year.

Monday, December 15, 2008

More December contests!

December is the month when we all think about giving... and I'm participating in some other great contests with that spirit in mind. :) Some are taking place at my publisher, Samhain Publishing, LTD.; another at the Beyond the Veil blog; and still another at the CataNetwork website.

Check out my website for more information -- and the chance to win some great prizes, including books! Now who doesn't love free books? ;)

Tuesday, December 09, 2008

Contest!



Beyond the Veil

Best Seller!

I am so thrilled to announce that DREAM WALK is now #8 on the Best Sellers list at My Bookstore and More -- Samhain's official distributor of digital and print books. :)

This is my very first 'best seller'. (GGGGG) Thanks to everyone who has downloaded a copy...and if you haven't, yet, what are you waiting for? ;)

My Bookstore and More Best Seller List (for December 8th)

1. Bound By Love by T. A. Chase

2. Seducing Jane Porter by Dominique Adair

3. About a Dragon by G. A. Aiken

4. Cat of a Different Color by Dana Marie Bell

5. Devil's on Horseback - Zeke by Beth Williamson

6. Going For It by Elle Kennedy

7. By the Book by N. J. Walters

8. Dream Walk by Meg Allison

9. Rough, Raw and Ready by Lorelei James

10. Not in Kansas by R. G. Alexander

Wednesday, December 03, 2008

Wednesday, November 26, 2008


Thanksgiving in the U.S. is just a day away. The turkey is thawed in the refrigerator; pies are made; and our cleaning frenzy is at an end. All in the name of tradition...a tradition that I really enjoy.

In honor of the holiday, here's a list of things my children are thankful for:

1. Indoor plumbing... "You never know how much you depend on [it] until you're out there in the woods with a roll of toilet paper, trying to decide between the pine and the maple." (from ds1, 13, the camper)

2. Home... "'Cause it's not cold ... and not food-less." (ds2, age 9 on Dec. 1st)

3. Chocolate, fuzzy animals, and hot guys... "They make the world go around." (dd2, age 16)

4. Pie and cars... "I like pie."(dd3, age 10)

5. Fleecy blankets... "They're warm and snugglie and my cat likes them." (dd1, age 18, after complaining: "No fair, [dd2] got all the good ones!")

And I am thankful for each of them...and their daddy. :)

What are you thankful for?

Friday, November 07, 2008

Paperback heaven

After a long spell of feeling I had nothing to read, I now have three books to choose from. The trouble now is -- which one do I read first?

First is DEADLY HARVEST, book two in the latest series by one of my favorite authors, Heather Graham. I adored the first in the series, DEADLY NIGHT. It is a wonderful read filled with suspense and ghosts.

So far, DEADLY HARVEST is just as suspenseful with imagery that sends a shiver down your spine. There are also plenty of characters that keep you guessing about the villain's identity. Ms Graham is a masterful storyteller -- her greatest asset is her ability to create stories that seem very plausible. Stories that have you jumping at shadows or looking over your shoulder at night.



Second is from another favorite author, Kerrelyn Sparks. Her Love at Stake series is fantastic -- sexy, funny and highly entertaining. All I Want for Christmas is a Vampire is her latest offering ... quite a mouthful for a title, but so far the story is good. Very engaging. And I think all her fans have been waiting for young Ian to get his chance at "true love".

Third is the thirteenth Dark-Hunters book, One Silent Night. Honestly, I bought this mostly because I have to see what happens next. I'm not so sure I'm loving the stories as much as I once did.

I will add that I'm still plowing my way through the epic ACHERON. Yes, I finally broke down -- after finishing my last novel -- and started reading it. I'm presently about half-way through. Partly because the book is so dang long AND because I've had to put it down from time to time.

My opinion? Does anyone really care? LOL. Probably not, but I'll give it anyway. The writing itself is good: ie, vivid, absorbing details and a lot of raw emotion. As a writer and storyteller, I completely understand why Ms Kenyon started ACHERON at the point where she did. I also know she's never been one to hold the punches when torturing her characters. *Torture being a literal term here.*

However, I find his backstory to be ... I don't know. A bit much? A little hard to take? Not unbelievable, really, just ... depressing. Very, very depressing. And right now 'depressing' is the last thing I need.

But I will finish it, because I bought the hardcover AND I have to see what type of women could possibly be up to the challenge of healing such a man. She'll have to be one incredible character.

So, what are you reading?

Tuesday, November 04, 2008

Birthday surprises



My very talented and thoughtful children made me this wonderful bat birthday cake... AND found this adorable bat mug for a present. My kids are great.

Thursday, October 30, 2008

Publisher Closing

On a sad note, I need to announce that Moonlit Romance and By Grace Publishing -- both owned and operated by Unique Enterprises -- will be closing their cyber-doors after December 31, 2008.

We all know how difficult it is for the smaller e-presses to stay open. I appreciate the opportunities and encouragement offered to me over the last few years by both the owner, editors and other authors of UE. I'm not sure I would have ventured into e-publishing without them, and I consider them all to be my friends.

If you haven't had an opportunity to purchase my stories at Moonlit or By Grace, you still can before December 31st. For more info on the stories available, including excerpts, reviews and BUY links, please visit my website:

After Dark (anthology of three spooky romances)

Romancing Jenny (a Harris Grove story)
Learning to Live (a Pops' Girls story)
Pops' Diner anthology
Table for Two (a Harris Grove story)


Winter Wonders (anthology of wintry romances)

Wednesday, October 29, 2008

Checking the calendar









I thought the weatherman might have been exaggerating. I hoped he was. But no...we woke up this morning to a sight more reminiscent of Christmas than Halloween.

Is it just me, or did we warp right through Autumn? Maybe it's a fluke? Whatever the case, I suppose I can curl up under my fleece throw with a good book and some hot chocolate. Or maybe I can conjure up a magic romance that takes place in the wintry forest. Something with a roaring fire -- yes, that's the ticket.

What do you see outside your front door? Does it inspire or make you want to crawl back in bed?

Monday, October 27, 2008

Author Interview -- Jeff Rivera













Please welcome a new voice in the writing world, Jeff Rivera. I think you'll find his bio is reason enough to spark some interest in his work. :)

Mr. Rivera's first book, Forever My Lady, will be released tomorrow, Tuesday, October 28th, from Grand Central Publishing.

BIO

Once homeless and living in his car, award-winning novelist Jeff Rivera writes passionate stories of those often forgotten and neglected by society. He believes even in the eyes of a gang member, even beneath the soiled clothes of a bag lady or behind the tears of a lonely kid in the back of the class, there lies a common thread that links us all, the universal human story. He has made it his personal mission to help change the way the world thinks in a positive way through his stories. Mr. Rivera currently lives in New York City.


Q: Could you please tell us a little about your writing background
and how you made your first sale?


I've been writing since I was 6-years old when the kids would make fun of me about it. I kept going and used it as a way to write about what I was going through emotionally but I'd never seriously thought about writing a novel any more than the average person does until I received rejection after rejection by Hollywood on the Forever My Lady screenplay. It was because of that rejection that I became motivated to just tell my story and decided to write my novel. I went from self-published to published after Grand Central acquired it.

Q: Readers and writers often like to get a behind the scenes peek of an author's writing routine. It would be great if you could please share your typical writing day schedule.

Well, when I'm not procrastinating I'm writing. I don't need a particular time of the day. I can write at any time and even though writing in the evenings or the middle of the night is best for me, you'll often find me on Facebook or Myspace chatting with my online friends.


Q: Please tell us about your latest novel and what we can expect from your characters.

My first novel is called, Forever My Lady, published by Grand Central publishing. The mass market edition is coming out on Tuesday, October 28th.

It's a coming of age love story about a boy whose only friend is his childhood sweetheart Jennifer. She sticks with him no matter what even as his path leads him into becoming a juvenile delinquent. He promises her he'll turn his life around that they'll get married and have children and she promises to never leave him. But he finds out from a friend that she's planning on marrying someone else. I think whether you are a lover of love like me, or you like in-depth characters you'll find what you're looking for in Forever My Lady.

Q: What's up next? Do you have another project in the works? If so, please tell us about it.

I just sold another book, a Young Adult book and I'm working on a third. So many ideas I have and it's just a matter of time before I crank them all out.

Q: Would you like to close with a writing tip?

I would say take a genre that is wildly sellable then do another twist on it, take the genre you're most passionate about and turn it on its head.


For more information, please visit Mr. Rivera at his WEBSITE.

Saturday, October 25, 2008

Celtic Thunder -- or how to inspire a muse


The surest way to start a story spinning in my brain is by playing some inspiring music.

My dh took me out on the town tonight to our first concert in ages. Being the sweet, thoughtful man that he is, he knows I enjoy Celtic music -- it's become my way of connecting with my Irish heritage. While writing ALAINA'S PROMISE, I would play those CDs over and over for hours on end.

So when he saw the newest sensation was coming to a nearby venue, he insisted we go. An early birthday present for me, and something he could enjoy, as well.

It was wonderful! Celtic Thunder, in case you haven't heard, is a group of five men, ages 16-40, with powerful, wonderful voices that bring almost any song to life. It was a fantastic evening all around. My only wish is that they would have done a bit more traditional Irish music, but still, I enjoyed it immensely.

And so did my muse, apparently. She wants to return to Ireland for another romp over the cliffs...only this time she's thinking of haunted castles, too. Ah, yes, inspiring. But she'll have to wait and log those notions on the "to be written" list. First come, first serve, after all.

Monday, October 20, 2008

Back to the grind

BROKEN is done and submitted. I'm really proud of myself, actually. This is the shortest length of time I've taken to write a full-length novel -- a little over 94k in around five-six months. I had hoped to finish more quickly, but it is a personal best, and one I hope to improve on for book three.

But after working non-stop on BROKEN, and dealing with personal issues, my brain was pretty well-done. Fried. I needed a respite.

Now my little break is over. I've done some reading, some goofing off in front of the idiot box (aka television), and have managed to get rather bored with it already. So my muse is telling me it's time to get back to work. Just as well since I have characters demanding their stories be written.

In the past I have found the best way to 'forget' about a submission is to jump right into the next project. At this time, there are two projects calling to me. One is a paranormal novella, working title: INTO THE RUSH. It's a bit different from my current series and para world, but I really like the characters and their situation.

Then there's that third Sentinels story, AT SECOND SIGHT. This one follows one of my DREAM WALK secondaries into a little danger and romance of her own. The poor girl needs both, believe me. She's been alone and bored for far too long. ;)

Wednesday, October 15, 2008

Rainy days


There's an older song that goes something like this: "Rainy days and Mondays always get me down". Apparently the singer/songwriter suffers from SAD. ;)

Monday is not my favorite day, either. But rain I can usually handle. I love the rain...a good thunderstorm or gully washer most of all. I love the fresh scent of the air; the patter of raindrops on the roof. I even like to watch the dark clouds swirling overhead, sometimes resembling an odd set of brushstrokes on canvas.

What I don't like, however, are endless days of rain. No sun. No light. Just gray, dim skies and landscape for miles and hours on end.

This time of year the rainy gloom is more tolerable. Thanks to the lovely array and shades of red, orange, and gold dotting the landscape, everything seems more colorful, less dreary. Even the deep gray of the sky and the ever-deepening mud don't bother me.

I suppose that's one reason Fall is my favorite season. I've always loved the way the air becomes cooler. I relish in the occasional whiff of woodsmoke on the breeze. The colors; the holidays; the full silver moon so low on the horizon. Have you ever stopped to watch a sunset over the a patchwork of brightly colored trees? It's beautiful. Enchanting. It's a picture worth capturing -- an image worth savoring.

My dh said he once dreaded this season. It reminded him of how life was passing by -- of all the things he hadn't accomplished, yet. Luckily his outlook has changed, because I've never seen it that way. To me, Autumn is about resting...renewing our spirits...it's about coming home.

But then there's that rain ... we need a little of that, too, don't we? Otherwise we'd get much too complacent in our lives. We become lazy or take what's important for granted.

So I'd change those song lyrics, if I could. Mondays still get me down. But rain? Bring it on.

Oh, wait. That's another song! ;)

Saturday, October 11, 2008

Day late, dollar short

I live with this constant notion that I'm always one step behind the other guy. A day late, a dollar short, as the saying goes.

It's true in many aspects of my life and has been for years. As a teenager, I was always the last to wear whatever fashion was hot. I was always the last to hear about the great new television show, movie or rock group. It was something I learned to live with, but it always bothered me. Always made me feel like the odd one out.

Now, I'm way past those insecure teenage years, and still I'm out of sync with the world.

I'm usually one step behind. Answering loop posts one day late after the discussion has moved on. (One bad part about being on Digest for your Yahool groups. ;)

Fashion is still a mystery to me. I wear what I like, what fits and is comfortable. Usually what's on clearance. ;) Style isn't something I worry about too much anymore, although lately I've realized I need to keep up my appearance just so I don't get too down on myself.

Professionally, I feel like I'm shuffling through quicksand at the moment. The slowness of my own output brings me down. The lack of feedback and the seeming indifference to my work by colleagues, etc, makes me wonder if I am, yet again, missing something?

Personal relationships are good, however. It's there that I seem to be on top of the world, at one with the time-keeper of my universe. And I suppose that is the most important aspect of life. Without family and friends, who would I have to dress up for? Who would I share my professional success, failures and complaints?

So I may still always feel a step behind... a day too late... a dollar lacking... But I'm blessed to know I'm loved, despite it all.

Thursday, October 02, 2008

Something more lighthearted ...




Your Hair Should Be Brown



You are an intelligent, well respected person.

You are very confident. You take yourself seriously, and other people take you seriously too.



You are a good leader, and you can be trusted with someone's life.

You motivate people well, and you command respect easily.



You are competent, successful, and organized. You can't stand chaos.

Some people mistake you for being cold, calculating, or elitist.



Well, good thing I'm a brunette. ;)

Wednesday, October 01, 2008

Jumping the hurdles


We all have hurdles in life -- those nasty little surprises that seem to come from nowhere and knock you on your butt. I've had a big one recently and it's sucking the life right out of my muse. It's hard to be creative when you're in a state of shock.

My mom, my best friend and confidante, was diagnosed with breast cancer last week.

We have no history of the disease in our family -- at least not on her side, so it wasn't something I really considered possible. Luckily they caught it early during her yearly mammogram. She went in for a biopsy with the assurance that only one in ten turns out to be malignant. Her response: "Well, I'm a ten!"

Honestly, she's taking the news better than I am. I've been wallowing and fretting something awful. I mean, how terrible would my life be without my best friend? Sure, I have my kids and husband, and we're all very close. But that mother/daughter relationship just isn't something I'm ready to lose. Not sure I'll ever be ready.

So I'm in the midst of jumping this hurdle, trying to follow my mom's lead and just take it one step at a time. She's amazing. If nothing else, I know her faith and her attitude will pull her through whatever comes next.

In the meantime, I've decided to do what I can to make a difference. And there's something you can do, also. Go to the Breast Cancer Awareness site and click on the link there. The sponsors will donate one free mammogram to women who can't afford them. It only takes a minute of your time; there's nothing to join; nothing to buy. You could help save someone else's mother, sister or friend.

Saturday, September 27, 2008

Three in a row...

Good reviews, that is, for my rom com novella, TABLE FOR TWO. This one is from The Long and the Short Of It. If you read the entire review and leave a comment in the box beneath, the book could win their Book of the Week honor. :) Either way, this brightened my evening considerably.

The Long and the Short of It -- 4.5 books
"Table for Two is a sweet read but more than that it is an engaging tale of two people who just needed to take the time to get to know one another... this charming contemporary story is one I recommend highly." Review by Orange Blossom

Thursday, September 25, 2008

One down, three to go...

Finally. I finished BROKEN, the second book of The Sentinels. I think this is the fastest I've ever written a full-length novel -- about 87k in around four months. IF I can keep myself working at this pace, I'll actually be able to do more stories in a shorter amount of time. Yeah, that's almost like saying: "What else could go wrong?"

Anyhow, I'm halfway through with the polishing phase. Trying not to overthink the plot or second-guess myself too much. It's difficult, however. Had some bad news on a personal front this week. Creativity, drive and determination have taken a big hit -- but I'm fighting to keep going and not let myself wallow or fret.

Again, easier said than done. :\

Friday, September 12, 2008

Blogging and chatting today ...

Join me today as I begin my guest-blogger stint at Beyond the Veil!

I'll also be participating in an all-day chat at the Samhain Cafe loop... we're talking about Demons and Angels.

Hope to see you there!

Wednesday, September 03, 2008

Author interview

"Forget everything you know about vampires..." and check out my interview with Zebra Books' new rising star, author Sara Reinke.

She's the creator of The Brethren Series, which includes DARK THIRST (July, 2008) & DARK HUNGER (September, 2008)

Tuesday, September 02, 2008

Change of plans

I'm a little bit bummed at the moment. My wonderful editor and her boss decided it would be best to give DREAM WALK one more line edit before setting it in stone. Or, um, pixels?

So, the upshot is my release date is now pending. I'll post the new date as soon as I know it myself.

No worries, I'd rather take a little more time than worry we might have missed a typo here or continuity issue there. Better safe than sorry -- and better to produce the best book possible. :)

In the meantime, you can still read two excerpts ... I suppose I should label them "unedited" at this point, but I don't think those portions of the book changed since the last run-through.

Check out my website for more info.

Saturday, August 30, 2008

I am so unspectacular

It's been a while since someone tagged me, but Denise Patrick snuck in with this meme. I'll get her. Yes, I will. ;)

First, the rules:

1) Link to the person that tagged you.2) Post the rules on your blog.3) List six unspectacular quirks you have.4) Tag six bloggers by linking them.5) Leave a comment on each person's blog to let them know they've been tagged.

Six unspectacular things about me. Only six? It might be tough to narrow the list. ;)

1. I love to do word puzzles. The newspaper crossword is how I unwind, that and the cryptiquote puzzle. I have to do both every day.

2. All of my stories have a theme song -- and I tend to listen to that song over, and over, ad nauseum while I'm writing. It tends to annoy those around me.

3. I like to knit with those funky knitting hoops -- the ones with all the pegs. Last winter I made each of my children a hat in their favorite colors. But that's something I can only do in the winter or late fall.

4. I love Dr. Pepper, but I have to drink it half and half, meaning half regular, half diet. Can't stand the taste of either by itself.

5. I hate horror films. Loved them in high school; can't watch them now. Too much blood and gore. I do love scary movies, just not "horror".

6. I have the pieces all cut out -- and two rows sewn together -- of a quilt I started right before my oldest son was born. He just turned thirteen. I vow to finish that quilt. Someday.


Now I'm going to tag some of the ladies of Shades of Suspense:
Catherine Berlin
Marie-Nicole Ryan
Rhianna Samuels
Loribelle Hunt
Emma Wayne Porter
Donica Covey

And now to go into hiding. ;)

Friday, August 29, 2008

Another review...

And five hearts for my latest rom com, Table for Two.

I'm just thrilled people seem to be enjoying this one. It took a while to get it done -- a lot of other projects pushed it aside -- but it was worth the wait. David and Sandra were a fun pair to write and I'm happy to have given them their own new beginning.

Read the entire review at The Romance Studio.

"Ms. Meg Allison has written a unique, fun-loving novella about a couple who could not stand to be together... there were some hilarious parts to this great manuscript. The two were complete opposites. As Ms. Allison gave us more information about this couple, it was still almost impossible to see how she would give readers a happily ever after. The couple was strong and determined but nothing alike.

This is a great book with something for everyone. I highly recommend it to all."

Reviewer: Brenda Talley
August 28, 2008


Ah, I love it! But Denise snuck in and tagged me. I'll have to plot my revenge for that one. ;) I'll post her tag tomorrow. :)

Thursday, August 28, 2008

It's in the cards

Years ago people used to say: "Write what you know." The philosophy was if you didn't have an intimate association with the subject -- or a PhD on it, anyhow -- you shouldn't write the book.

Well, that's a bit limiting, don't you think? If we all went by that advice, I can tell you at least half the secret agent; billionaire; cowboy; time-travel; and vampire romances would disappear from existence. Especially the latter.

We can't stick to what we know, but we can learn enough about a subject to write credible stories. Say it with me now: research. Have I mentioned I really don't like this part? :P It takes so much time away from the fun stuff of creating worlds, manipulating characters, etc.

For my current wip, BROKEN, I discovered there's a crucial scene involving my heroine having her future revealed by a friend. Until I got to this point in the story, I hadn't realized just how vital this scene will be. When I first mapped out the book, it was only a stepping-stone to the next scene, but now...things have changed.

I've had some small experiences in my former life with Tarot cards, but not enough to write a believable reading. Sure, I could try to fake my way through it -- after all, everyone has their own style and there are hundreds of different decks of cards these days. But I just know someone, somewhere, would notice if I goofed. And they would, understandably, complain. Or even go so far as to write a bad review or, worse yet, never buy another book from me! All this because I stepped outside my comfort zone without a net or a clue.

So, I bought a book that explains the basics. Hopefully I can draw enough from that -- and long-ago memories -- to create a plausible scene. My heroine needs this guidance; she needs a wake-up call, to be honest. And who better to give it than the best friend with her own special gift? ;)

Almost done... on to the next murder, a little mayhem, the black moment and our Happy Ending.

Tuesday, August 26, 2008

Do you want it? Do you really? ;)

Dream Walk will be released in two weeks. You can now read TWO excerpts! One on my website, the other excerpt on Samhain Publishing's website. Enjoy!

Saturday, August 23, 2008

My real-life muse

I'm working on book two of The Sentinels -- almost done! I can see the light and it's not a train. ;)

However, I hit another tiny snag with a certain character. He's a secondary at this point, but has his eye on that final book. He can be a pain in the rear to write because he's so sarcastic and closed-mouthed. He's going to have to come clean or book five will be a very, very short story.

So what do I do when I hit a bump in my plots? Well, until my sweet editor gets her hands on it and offers her advice, I go to my in-house muse. Aka: My oldest daughter.

She's only read my sweet romances from cover to cover -- yes, I'm old-fashioned -- but she's a wonderful sounding-board for each and every plot. She listens and often comes up with solutions. She never rolls her eyes when I talk about a storyline or wonder how to kill off this person or get the hero and heroine from point A to point C. She's very wise for her years ... and I truly believe she holds on to my muse so she doesn't scamper off when my own thoughts get too chaotic.

Everyone should have a muse, "real" or otherwise. They keep life interesting. ;)

Back to the wip!

Friday, August 22, 2008

First review



Table for Two received its first review ... this one from CoffeeTime Romance. After yesterday, I needed a smile. If you need one, check out Table for Two, it might give you a little lift. ;)

BUY IT NOW
Kindle Edition also available!

Contemporary Romance
Rating: 4 Cups

"This is a great love story full of funny situations. The two main characters are very different from each other. David is a bit of a free spirit and Sandra is very uptight. Their dates are very funny, especially the monster truck rally. The small town they live in seems a bit too gossipy, especially after the movie incident, but the people for the most part seem warm-hearted and genuinely concerned with each other’s welfare. David’s sister and Jenny and Mark play small but important roles in the story. I really enjoyed it."

Maura
Reviewer for Coffee Time Romance
Reviewer for Karen Find Out About New Books

Thursday, August 21, 2008

What genre is your life?

Is it romance? Comedy? Horror? Mystery? Chick-lit? A bit of this and that all mixed together?

Probably the latter.

Life is ups, downs, some tragedy, some laughter and a lot plodding along, looking for the sun to come back out.

Someone recently asked why I chose to write romance. The question came from an individual who doesn't care for that particular genre and I couldn't help but hear the note of scorn. No problem. I don't expect everyone to like the same things. I know many dismiss romance as quickly as others dismiss pop music or modern art. I just hope they at least give unfamiliar things a chance. ;)

The answer I gave was simple and precise: I'm a romantic at heart.

But today my answer changed just a bit. I witnessed the aftermath of a family once again sent to the edge of hell and back by heart-breaking loss. I saw such profound grief that it touched my heart. Yet I felt incapable of doing anything to help or give any type of comfort.

Later, I sat thinking about how resilient the human spirit can be, and praying for my own family. That's when I realized times like these are why I read and write romance, whatever form it takes. I need to know at least one thing is going to work out the way I think it should. I find comfort in the fact that good things do happen, despite the hurdles and pits along the way. I want to see two characters -- lost, alone, searching -- find one another and fall in love. I need to be reassured, I suppose. I want that Happy Ever After.

Life is filled with tragic mistakes. Pain and heartache abound and we never know for sure that it will, in fact, be okay. We hope it will. We hold on and cling to whatever faith we possess, waiting for the pain to subside and the next ray of sun to appear.

But sometimes that rope gets a bit frayed and our hands start to slip...

So I write romance because I hope. I have faith. I dream, for myself and others. If my stories give even one person a respite from whatever is going wrong in their lives, then it's worth any scorn or dismissal I might receive. If I can soothe one tattered heart, even for a few pages, it's worth it.

I'm a storyteller. I'm a bit old-fashioned, too. I write about a man and a woman finding each other and falling in love despite whatever danger or insecurities I throw at them. Sometimes they're very real people ... sometimes they're larger than life. But they always get through it and come out stronger in the end.

Whatever my current genre might be, I know love can get me through it. After all, life imitates art.

Wednesday, August 20, 2008

red-neck humor ... how true

What Jeff Foxworthy has to say about, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania:

If your Dairy Queen is closed from September through May, you live in Pittsburgh.

If someone in a Home Depot store offers you assistance and they don't work there, you live in Pittsburgh.

If you've worn shorts and a parka at the same time, you live in Pittsburgh.

If you've had a lengthy telephone conversation with someone who dialed a wrong number, you live in Pittsburgh.

If "Vacation" means going anywhere south of the Mason Dixon line for the weekend, you live in Pittsburgh.

If you measure distance in hours, you live in Pittsburgh.

If you have switched from "heat" to "A/C" in the same day and back again you live in Pittsburgh.

If you can drive 75 mph through 2 feet of snow during a raging blizzard without flinching, you live in Pittsburgh.

If you carry jumper cables in your car and your wife knows how to use them, you live in Pittsburgh.

If you design your kid's Halloween costume to fit over a snowsuit, you live in Pittsburgh.

If the speed limit on the highway is 55 mph -- you're going 80 and everybody is passing you, you live in Pittsburgh.

If driving is better in the winter because the potholes are filled with snow, you live in Pittsburgh.

If you know all 4 seasons: almost winter, winter, still winter and road construction, you live in Pittsburgh.

If you have more miles on your snow blower than your car, you live in Pittsburgh.

If you find 10 degrees "a little chilly", you live in Pittsburgh.

If you actually understand these jokes, and forward them to all your Pittsburgh friends & others, you live or have lived in Pittsburgh.

Saturday, August 02, 2008

Do you want to 'meet' a vampire?



Can't help you there -- but I can show you where to enter a fantastic contest for the chance to win one of two 'vampire' books. ;)

Book Binge is giving away a copy of ACHERON, the long-awaited installment of Sherrilyn Kenyon's creative Dark-Hunter series. If Dark-Hunters aren't your thing, you can enter to win a copy of Breaking Dawn, Stephanie Meyer's latest installment of her acclaimed Twilight series.

All you have to do is post and leave your email addy. What do you have to lose? ;)

Sunday, July 27, 2008

Romance with a little laughter


Table for Two (A Harris Grove Story)
by Meg Allison

Sandra Larsen and David Jenkins have nothing in common—except that their best friends just got married.

Despite their petty bickering and sarcastic barbs, David has fallen head-over-heels for the feisty restaurant critic. He has one week to convince her they should share a permanent table for two.

Imprint: Short and Sweet Novella
BUY IT NOW

Excerpt:

Chapter One
“Strangers in the Night”

The punch tasted like carbonated syrup and the veggie trays had wilted. Other than that, Sandra supposed the wedding reception could be called a hit. Unless you counted the fact that she just lost her best friend.

She took a long sip of her drink and winced as the fizzy liquid made her teeth ache from sugar overload. Maybe she could get some water somewhere.

“Nice party.”

She glanced to her left over the rim of the clear plastic cup and tried not to grimace. David Jenkins had to be the most irritating man she’d ever met. Too bad she’d be seeing a lot of him now that their best friends had tied the knot.

“I said, nice party, don’t you agree?” He looked down at her from such height that she had to lift her chin to meet his gaze. At five eight, Sandra was in no way petite. The man should be on a basketball court.

“Yes, it is.” She looked away, hoping he’d get the hint and leave. Instead, she heard him chuckle.

“Man, you aren’t going to make this easy, are you, Ms. Larsen?”

That got her attention. “Make what easy, Mr. Jenkins?”

He waved a hand in the direction of the dance floor where the newlyweds, Jenny and Mark Thompson, danced to When I Fall in Love. “This being best-friends-in-law, stuff. We’re going to have to get along now, no matter what.”

She raised a brow. “And just what gives you that impression? Why do we have to get along? We’re not the ones that just got married.”

“No, but I have a feeling that if we want to be part of Mark and Jenny’s new lives in any way, we’re going to have to at least pretend to like each other. You know they won’t stand for us fighting.”

No, she and David weren’t exactly bosom buddies. They were as different as night and day, summer and winter…head lice and caviar. She smirked.

But why would anyone really care? So what if they’d squabbled over who should toast the future bride and groom at the engagement party last year? People disagree from time to time, and it all started with one of his inane clueless man comments. David made a lot of them.

The scene she made at the bachelor party last month couldn’t really matter now, could it? She had apologized. Sort of. Sandra had been told by a very reliable source – or so she thought – that David had hired a stripper for the party and she refused to let that little peccadillo go by without protest.

Then the whole incident at the rehearsal dinner…well, that was better left unmentioned for all concerned. Although, in her defense, Sandra couldn’t help it if the restaurant they held it at had received three health code violations in the past six months. If only Jenny had asked her beforehand, it would have been a moot point. Sandra certainly could not, in good conscience, have let David eat that shrimp and lobster platter knowing what she knew.

Yes, the restaurant owner hadn’t been pleased and maybe she could have been a bit more discreet, but really! In hind sight, she should let the big oaf take his chances with a little food poisoning.

She set her half-empty cup down on the buffet table and crossed her arms over her stomach. While she didn’t like David, she disliked the idea of missing out on Jenny’s new life even more.

“Well, maybe we can work on it,” she conceded. “What do you suggest?”

“First off, how about calling me Dave like everyone else?”

“I can handle that, but I’ll call you David.”

He smiled. Sandra moved away an inch. Sure he had a nice smile, but the man was hopeless otherwise.



Indulge your senses... with stories of the past, present & paranormal.
Meg Allison, Author

Tuesday, July 15, 2008

Monday, July 14, 2008

Cover envy

I've been given a cover for DREAM WALK, my September 9th release from Samhain Publishing Ltd.

The cover is gorgeous! The hero is perfect -- the background almost exactly what I imagined. Suffice to say, I LOVE IT! But I can't share it yet. (pout) Samhain has this rule about not sharing or posting your cover before the boss okay's it. It's a great policy -- one I totally support. However...I really, REALLY want to post this cover anywhere and everywhere I can!

But I can wait. Heck, it took me this long to get the story done... But as soon as I'm allowed to, I'm sharing its lovely face with the world! ;)

Friday, July 11, 2008

What Spice Are You?




You Are Basil



You are quite popular and loved by post people.

You have a mild temperament, but your style is definitely distinctive.

You are sweet, attractive, and you often smell good.

Monday, June 30, 2008

Ogling a hero...


I took my oldest daughters to see the new Speed Racer movie. It was entertaining -- cheesy, yes, but rather fun to watch. Just beware of the multitude of flashing lights and ultra-vivid-technicolor. I almost walked away with a migraine from all the chaotic sights.

However, I also walked away with a sincere appreciation for another actor, Matthew Fox of Lost fame. He is the perfect model for the hero in an upcoming novel, tentatively titled: Night Shift. The story is actually taking the characters from an unpublished short story -- a paranormal historical romance -- and tossing them into the present.

The book is still a work in progress, but I have it slated as book four in my paranormal series: The Sentinels.

Unlike many writers, I don't always have a photo visual of my characters, but I find it does help to have some kind of reference point. That way my heroes don't all come out sounding like the same cookie-cutter version of the last one. I can give them slightly different features; different flaws; varied attributes. If I have that photo available, it makes it all the easier to find the right words to convey what I'm seeing in my mind's eye.

And who doesn't like to ogle a hero now and then?

Wednesday, June 11, 2008

Chick-lit and Guest Blogger...


This past May marks the date for the release of Cindy K. Green’s sixth book title, Meeting Mr. Right Online. It is a sweet, chick-lit novella. What is Chicklit you might ask? Here is a little introduction from the author.

Chick-lit is primarily about young women in their 20’s or 30’s dealing with life (some newer titles include older women as well). It contains a light, humorous and most importantly a confiding tone (like you’re speaking to your girlfriends)—almost always in the first person. The themes focus around love, relationships, friendships, professional dilemmas, and a penchant for fashion—usually facing hilarious and embarrassing situations. But what it all comes down to is the heroine figuring out herself and what she really wants out of life. There is usually some kind of epiphany that blows her mind away and finally she can see clearly about what she really wants—or more importantly—needs.

Chicklit is a completely different genre from romance because the focus is on the woman and how she navigates her way through the twists and turns life throws at her. But the romantic angle is usually at the forefront of the story. Another things about chicklit is that it does not always end in a happily ever after for the heroine and her love interest. Now I am an HEA girl all the way, so never fear, mine is very romantic and sweet and ends with an HEA.


A few questions to Cindy about writing this book.


How did you go about writing this story?

This story resulted from a few factors. I was reading a couple of chick-lit novels last spring, I’d just watched several episodes of a certain tv show with my sisters which resulted in the names of all the side characters, and I really did have an online friend like this who I had come to rely on and then all of a sudden didn’t hear from. My friend though was only a friend and we started writing again in a very short time. But the situation made me think…What if??? It all went from there.

Did you plot out this story or write it pantser style?

There was no plotting to this story until toward the end and then it was only ideas of what I wanted to happen to bring about the conclusion. I began writing this story on my PDA late at night in the dark (this is also how I wrote NovelTea #1). Sounds weird, right? :D Well, we authors are an odd lot. LOL! I was in the middle of editing a full-length novel and to those of you who have ever done that we know how consuming it is. I needed to write something new. So, there in the dark as my husband slept, I began this story.

Is the finished version much different from your first draft?

Yes, actually, it is. It is about 5,000 words longer to begin with. I changed the heroine’s profession, adding a secondary plot line about her work worries. And I made her love interest British instead of American. My husband calls me an Anglophile as I love all things British especially Period Dramas and British television. I thought, ‘I can write an English bloke.’ I had a couple English author friends read through his passages to make sure he seemed real. It seems he passed muster.

Meeting Mr. Right Online
By Cindy K. Green
Sweet/Chicklit Novella
By Grace Publishing
$1.49

Watch the book trailer

Blurb:
What’s a girl to do when she’s thirty-three and all her friends have started their lives and left her behind?
Lucinda Kelley works for a local cable television show, assists her sister in her tumultuous relationships, and yearns for the day she can meet Mr. Right. All that seems to change when she meets Londoner Julian Crawford in an on-line tv chat room. Eight months later, via email he has become her best friend and closest confidant. Then one day the messages cease, and Lucinda feels lost until she makes a vow to end this infatuation with someone she has never met and move on to something real. When an alarming revelation is exposed, it could be Lucinda’s undoing or it might be exactly what she was looking for.
Excerpt #1: The Opening


Good evening, this is Amber Heffernan reporting live for Channel 11 entertainment news outside the beautiful Waldorf Astoria Hotel in New York City. In just a few minutes, the glamorous Lucinda Kelley will emerge with her new husband, that handsome British financier. This couple has been in the media limelight since they first started seeing each other almost six months ago, outshining all of the other popular Hollywood pairs. The bride was married today in a Vera Wang strapless scoop-neck wedding gown, and I’m told she looked absolutely stunning. When the couple exits the hotel, they will travel to JFK International Airport to board the family jet to Jamaica where the twosome plan to depart for a two week honeymoon. After that they will settle into their Malibu home in California where Lucinda produces her award winning television sitcom…

The computer beeped letting me know it had finally booted up, and there I was, daydreaming again. I really had to stop doing that. I clicked the button once more, hoping this time it would be there. I held my breath for the few seconds it took to check my email messages, feeling that depressed, empty sensation yet again when I didn’t see it. Rubbing my forehead, I closed my eyes. This was absolutely ridiculous. Why did I torture myself so?

Read a couple more excerpts and watch the book trailer on my website.

**********
Cindy K. Green is a multi-published author with degrees in History and Education. Previously a middle school English & History teacher, she now homeschools her own children and writes in several genres: Inspirational, Contemporary, Suspense and Historical romance. Find out more about Cindy and her books at www.cindykgreen.com.

Friday, June 06, 2008

What happened to Spring?

It's hot. Blazing, melting, nobody wants to move HOT! We never really had Spring here in the lovely Eastern USA. Winter and fall-like temps followed us through the end of May with little good days in-between...and now we're up in the 90s with humidity that makes the air thick enough to swim through.

Ugh.

Yeah, yeah, when it was in the 20s I swore I wouldn't complain, but I guess I lied. What happened to Spring? Anyone? Anyone? Beuhler?

Sunday, June 01, 2008

Joyfully Interviewed!

I've been interviewed and was very impressed with the interviewer's questions. I could tell she did her research. :)

Read it here: Meg Allison interview

Saturday, May 31, 2008

What color do I need?




You Need Some Orange in Your Life



Orange will make you feel open, lively, and artistic.

And with a little orange, you will project an aura of friendliness.

If you want bolder experiences, you've got to get a little orange in your life!



For extra punch: Combine orange with red or yellow



The downside of orange: It's too powerful and unusual for some people to deal with



The consequences of more orange in your life:



You will become more creative in almost every aspect of your life

You will find humor in the most serious and dismal situations

You will feel like life is exciting, even when you're doing ordinary things

Wednesday, May 28, 2008

Need inspiration?

Then check out my post at Shades of Suspense.

You'll find some pictures of men who have inspired my heroes...at least in the physical description. ;)

Tuesday, May 27, 2008

Expecting eloquence?

Then you're at the wrong blog today.

Children are ... interesting. That's the best way to put it. It's after days like this that I sort of wonder if the "crazy old cat-lady" thing is such a bad idea?

However, I'd miss the not-so-little darlings if they were gone. Who would make me laugh? Hug me for no reason? Tell me the worst knock-knock joke ever? Keep me on track and moving in the right direction?

Yep, kids are great. I love mine completely. But they sure can make the muse head for the hills. Ever try to read a love scene with children clamoring for dinner, demanding justice because big brother said something mean, or slamming the front door every two minutes????

You should try writing one in such situations. ARGH!

Monday, May 26, 2008

A new review...




Winter Wonders
Anthology by Cindy K. Green, Joann Carter, Meg Allison, and Muncy Chapman

The Long and the Short of It


This brief 79 page book is a compilation of four short, sweet, winter romances. All four tales were enjoyable, easy reads. It's definitely a curl-up-with-hot-chocolate-and-relax-by-the-fire sort of book that leaves one with a warm and agreeable aftertaste - you know, the type where you close the cover with a dreamy smile and a satisfied sigh.

#3 GWEN'S RESOLUTION by Meg Allison
Folks, I am a consummate sceptic in the "love at first sight" arena, but Meg Allison's beautifully woven story has softened my stance. She paints a wonderfully believable portrait of being in the right place at the proverbial right time and falling in love. Gwen is determined to stop sitting home alone, feeling sorry for herself. She's going to be bold and brave by celebrating New Year's Eve on her own. Her plans are changed, however, once she meets Tad.

Gwen and Tad are both depicted with depth and gentleness. And Ms. Allison didn't overshoot the brevity of the story by trying to take them beyond the beginning of their relationship - a be-ginning that promises to bloom into "Happily Ever After".
I think this may have been my favorite of the four stories!
Review by Black-eyed Susan

Wednesday, May 07, 2008

Wednesday Morning checklist

1. Got up and dressed by 8 a.m.

2. Drove dds to fiends for babysitting purposes.

3. Logged on to computer.

4. Went to cook eggs for ds1.

5. Checked on computer and got distracted.

6. Smelled eggs 'cooking'.

7. Ran to kitchen. (exercise portion of my day)

8. Fed burned eggs to dog.

9. Cooked more eggs for ds.

10. Back to the computer.

Is it Thursday, yet?

Sunday, May 04, 2008

Theme song

Do you have a theme song? A song that represents your mood; your life?

Each of my books has one...some even have an entire soundtrack. :) I need music to inspire me; to open that flood of images and words that become a novel or short story.

For my paranormal series, The Sentinels, the soundtracks include some of the same songs: My Immortal, Everybody's Fool, and Bring Me To Life, all by Evanescence. The story I'm working on now is titled: Broken. Its 'theme' is the song by the same name...by Seether featuring Amy Lee, to be more precise. I really love her voice. The song is dark, haunting and very much sets the mood for the novel. If I could, I'd give each reader a copy of it along with the book. :)

Check out the video -- it's interesting.

Back to my soundtrack...it helps me keep in the mood and on-target when I'm working on a certain book. And it kind of helps drown out the household noise. (aka: the kids) ;)

Wednesday, April 16, 2008

Homemade definitions



Does your family have their own definitions for various words or phrases? We do -- it's only natural with a large family and our off-the-wall, sometimes dark, usually sarcastic senses of humor.

One of my favorites entered our set of family jargon about year or two ago. Unaware of what the mysterious "PMS" stood for that my oldest daughters and I often complain about, my oldest son (then 11) came up with his own unique version:

Paranormal Mood Swings

I think it fits rather well.

Wednesday, April 02, 2008

Those blog quizzes...

Are really interesting. And addictive.

Sometimes I find the results spot-on; other times I wonder if the quiz writer had a clue. LOL!

So far I know my "power color" is Indigo; I have my own leprechaun and rock star names; I know I'm romantic and a dreamer (didn't need a quiz to figure that out); and I'm not as big a pessimist as I thought. Odd. I'm also 60% Irish and 64% Southern. Now that's a fun combo.

But it has me wondering -- why do so many people like these quizzes? Are we bored? Trying to "find ourselves"? In need of some more challenging computer games or a new book to read?

I'm not sure, honestly. But I do know once I start clicking on the answers, I can't do just one! They're worse than potato chips. And even though I'm happily married, I still can't resist finding out what kind of flirt I am and if men find me sexy. I feel the need to try another quiz, and another until I've wasted half an hour or more discovering some rather useful insights into my personality.

Yeah...well, maybe not useful, but entertaining at least.

Tuesday, March 11, 2008

SOLD!

I am thrilled to announce that I've sold my third novel to Samhain Publishing!

This one is a paranormal romantic suspense set in Savannah, GA.

DREAM WALK
Book One/The Sentinels

Some nightmares are deadly real.

Camille Bryant is a gifted medium being slowly driven insane by terrifying dreams. Then she is forced to accept help from a Sentinel -- a mysterious warrior of her race.

Ian Spain is a dream walker who can enter and manipulate others' dreams. His specialty -- vanquishing demons. But he finds Camille is much more than she seems at first glance; her tormentor no ordinary apparition. Is he strong enough to win this battle?

As the body count rises, their powers and courage will be put to the test in battle as old as time. Winner takes all.

Saturday, March 01, 2008

Oh, my, what a mood!

I managed to do some writing this morning. It was almost that Zen-like state that I love so much when words just pour across the page. Good, right? Yes and no.

In the scene I wrote, the hero is at perhaps the lowest point in his long life...a point of no return. To write it, I had to delve into those emotions and really feel them myself. I had to become one with his thoughts; to really understand and accept his decision. Afterward I was left with one downer of a mood. That, combined with other little irksome events in real life, made the whole day a bit of a struggle.

For me, writing is a lot like acting. (I love to act, btw, just don't have the chance to do it anymore.) I have to 'get into character' so I understand what the hero or heroine is feeling and thinking. I need to feel those emotions so I know what they'll do next or what they'll say if a particular event happens; if a certain thing is said.

Sometimes this process is fun ... sometimes it's not. But it always manages to be a bit cathartic in the end. I just have to get past the downers and bring my hero -- and myself -- back up again.

Wednesday, February 20, 2008

What muse are you?




Your Inner Muse is Thalia



You are most like this playful muse of comedy.

Life is all about laughter to you, and you're a natural comic.

You make people laugh until their sides split.

And you're always up for some play time!

Saturday, February 16, 2008

The waiting game

I think I spend a lot of my life waiting. Waiting for things to happen; waiting to hear about submissions; waiting to do this or that when we have more money and/or time.

Sound familiar?

It's sad, really. We should spend more time 'doing' and less time 'waiting'. We need to jump into life with both feet and take charge. Sure, there will always be things we have to wait for, but that doesn't mean the rest of our lives should be at a standstill.

For instance, I have two submissions out and without a verdict, as of today. But while we sit and wonder what will happen next, why not start something new? I should dive into a new project or find something completely different to occupy my mind and time. Believe me, I've been trying! So far I've managed to read ... oh, four novels ... finished a novella after subbing the novel; and am starting another novel. I have the bare-bones outline; character study; the opening line! Yay!

Unfortunately, I'm a little obsessive. I check the inbox at least twice a day, all the while knowing it will likely be weeks before I'll hear anything. I have a hard time concentrating when I'm in this annoying state of mind. (It's annoying to me and to my family, lol!) But I will say I'm trying a lot harder this time around to keep that other project going and to keep my hands and mind active with other things.

I'd rather be doing than waiting... sometimes it just takes a bit of self-control to keep moving.

Wednesday, February 06, 2008

Begin again

It seems I'm forever starting over. One novel done and submitted ... still awaiting a verdict on that one ... and a novella is also in another editor's Inbox. So what do I do? Begin again, of course.

It can be a little daunting but it's a necessary part of this business. You have to keep busy; have to keep producing. After all, you don't want the world to forget your name!

But honestly, writing keeps me from going insane while I wait and wonder about that latest submission. I also know this next story will be even better. You learn just a little more with each book you write. Everyone learns by experience and writers are no different.

So...now that I have my mythology firmly in place, on to the next soon-to-be-happy couple. The first hurdle: that opening line.

Wednesday, January 23, 2008

Can you do this?

Speaking of 'stupid' labels, here's a couple that I've noticed lately. Have you ever looked at a certain popular brand of facial tissue... which rhymes with fluffs? They actually give you step-by-step directions on how to blow your nose. Uh-huh.

I don't know about you, but my mama taught me that quite a few years ago. I've passed that knowledge on to my own children. I just assumed that everyone learned such a thing as a child. Was I wrong? Or do they really think we're not that bright?

Meanwhile, on the instructions for heating a frozen pot-pie it reads: "Remove carefully from oven -- CAUTION filling may be hot." Oh-kay. Thanks for the warning but... DUH?!

So, are we a world filled with inept, illogical and/or careless consumers? Or are manufacturers just terrified of getting sued?

Makes you wonder.

Saturday, January 19, 2008

Stupid product labels

It's been a rough week -- sick kiddos and so forth -- and I needed a good laugh. Thought I'd share these stupid product labels. My question is: Are consumers really this dumb?

1. On a blanket from Taiwan
NOT TO BE USED AS PROTECTION FROM A TORNADO.

2. On a helmet mounted mirror used by US cyclists
REMEMBER, OBJECTS IN THE MIRROR ARE ACTUALLY BEHIND YOU.

3. On a Taiwanese shampoo
USE REPEATEDLY FOR SEVERE DAMAGE.

4. On the bottle-top of a (UK) flavoured milk drink
AFTER OPENING, KEEP UPRIGHT.


6. In a US guide to setting up a new computer
TO AVOID CONDENSATION FORMING, ALLOW THE BOXES TO WARM UP TO ROOM TEMPERATURE BEFORE OPENING.
(Sensible, but the instruction was INSIDE the box.)

8. In some countries, on the bottom of Coke bottles
OPEN OTHER END.

9. On a packet of Sunmaid raisins
WHY NOT TRY TOSSING OVER YOUR FAVOURITE BREAKFAST CEREAL?

10. On a Sears hairdryer
DO NOT USE WHILE SLEEPING.

11. On a bag of Fritos
YOU COULD BE A WINNER! NO PURCHASE NECESSARY.
DETAILS INSIDE.

12. On a bar of Dial soap
DIRECTIONS - USE LIKE REGULAR SOAP.

13. On Tesco's Tiramisu dessert
(printed on bottom of the box)
DO NOT TURN UPSIDE DOWN.

14. On Marks & Spencer Bread Pudding
PRODUCT WILL BE HOT AFTER HEATING.

15. On a Korean kitchen knife
WARNING KEEP OUT OF CHILDREN.

16. On a string of Chinese-made Christmas lights
FOR INDOOR OR OUTDOOR USE ONLY.

17. On a Japanese food processor
NOT TO BE USED FOR THE OTHER USE.

18. On Sainsbury's peanuts
WARNING - CONTAINS NUTS.

19. On an American Airlines packet of nuts
INSTRUCTIONS - OPEN PACKET, EAT NUTS.

20. On a Swedish chainsaw
DO NOT ATTEMPT TO STOP CHAIN WITH YOUR HANDS OR GENITALS.

21. On a child's superman costume
WEARING OF THIS GARMENT DOES NOT ENABLE YOU TO FLY.

22. On some frozen dinners
SERVING SUGGESTION DEFROST.

23. On a hotel provided shower cap in a box
FITS ONE HEAD.

24. On packaging for a Rowenta iron
DO NOT IRON CLOTHES ON BODY.

25. On Boot's "Children's" cough medicine
DO NOT DRIVE CAR OR OPERATE MACHINERY.

26. On Nytol sleep aid
WARNING MAY CAUSE DROWSINESS.

Monday, January 07, 2008

Spotlight!

Join me this week as my story, Learning to Live, is put in the spotlight at the NEW Unique Enterprises Authors' Blog!

It's a great blog featuring a lot of contests, fun writing prompts and excerpts on a monthly and daily basis. You won't want to miss out!