Gail Faulkner News

Proposed blurb, Any Price

2012-01-24T09:44:00.000-05:00

So this is totaly not edited but I wanted to see if ya liked.

Kenna had known coming to this speck of Europe was a mistake. A little weird is easily concealed but as soon as the jet landed in this “Homeland of Weird”, all hell broke loose. Now she was a mindreading, paranormal freak and someone really powerful knew it.

Lore easily controlled the responsibilities of being dangerous, a trained weapon who brought extra abilities to any fight. Even the mysterious kick of power from some little witch who obviously had no idea what she was doing, could be handled. Control meant getting control of her. Shit yeah, he could get behind that plan.

Plan A might have worked if there wasn’t someone else hunting her, or if one of her powers was not makin’ his clothes fall off. So plan B involve that last thing and whatever else, so long as Kenna was his. Pushing him to plan C would be a mistake.

Cover Any Price

2012-01-23T11:45:00.000-05:00

Accidentally deleted this post...opps

Confessing, I was removing older Any Price posts because ms has changed and I didn't want the older versions confusing everyone.

I will post a tease as soon as I get this edit done.

:::wicked smile firmly in place:::::

January

2012-01-18T12:39:00.000-05:00

It’s going to be an amazing year. I hope all of you have the same feeling.

Already everything is different and it’s still January. My beloved editor at EC is moving on to new opportunities. I’m so happy for her yet so sad for me. There is no doubt my new editor will be an absolutely wonderful person. I’m afraid of her already. LOL

Another thing different about this year is my one resolution. I resolve to NOT do anything icky. That means I will refuse when I don’t want to do something. No more polite agreement when I simply detest “helping” with something, or “just fixing” something, or “handling that little thing” for someone else.

In the revolt against doing anything icky, I have actively set about fighting for my writing time. I know that sound odd to most people. Not having an out of the home job, every other person in my world assumes I have scads of time to do things for them.

So working hard at making my world different.

Here is what’s happening right now.

Any Price is at EC for editing

I am finishing a manuscript this week, it is not part of a previous series. My CP has to read it and be very firm with me about what needs fixing. That takes us a month. Then I’ll be submitting to a different publisher. Scary!!

I will then be working on Blind Fire, a Ghost Unit book. If all goes well and the muse dances across my keys with total abandon I’ll have it ready for EC by late spring.

You do realize, all of the above is subject to change…LOL

Gail

Happy Holidays

2011-12-22T18:22:00.000-05:00

I adore the season and the reason for it. Oh yeah, I'm a romantic and what is more whimsicle that the Christmas love story?

Also adore Romance Junkies and the 5 Ribbon review WICKED BEAST received. If you'd like to read it, here is the Link.

http://romancejunkiesreviews.com/artman/publish/paranormal/Wicked_Beast.shtml

Have a merry Holiday all!!

5, Count them, 5 Cups of Coffee (or stars)

2011-12-05T13:04:00.000-05:00

Happy dancing about. At last, Wicked Beast Reviewed.
Here is the link to Coffee Time’s review of Wicked Beast: http://coffeetimeromance.com/BookReviews/wickedbeastbygailfaulkner.html

Working hard on the next book (s)
Waving at everyone.

What happens when I'm let out.

2011-11-07T12:34:00.000-05:00

Went to a Revolutionary War re-enactment. Wow, guys in high boots, tight pants and splendid waistcoats!! Love those long rifles, even packin’ a pistol looks good when you dress it up.

Of course I had a book idea, ghost, time travel, you know, exactly what I don’t have time to write. The ghost in my head looks suspiciously like Daniel Day Lewis from Last of the Mohicans. He is soooo inspiring!

Back to this century, I went into a CVS to buy a soda and the Sunday paper. The paper was a dollar more than normal! I decided I didn’t need it that bad and went to my next stop. The Dollar General store had the Sunday paper at the register so I said to the clerk. “Its sad they raised the price of the paper.” He says “What? It’s the same as always.”

So there ya have it. CVS is gouging people for the paper!! What kind of evil empire does that? CVS just lost my business.

LOL I feel better now that I have punished them on my blog.

Amazon Mispelling!!!

2011-10-31T11:08:00.001-04:00

I have been impatiently checking Amazon to see when Wicked Beast will be listed. Today I find it is listed but under Gail Faulker!! So a search for Gail Faulkner and you get everything but Wicked Beast.

This has Gail snarling and yet, how to fixed it?? I have notified Ellora's Cave but have not been able to find one small door into the mighty Amazon. No avenue to ask for a change from the lowly authors. Makes me just a little bit madder.

Here is the Amazon link anyway: http://www.amazon.com/Wicked-Beast-ebook/dp/B0060WNRYI/ref=sr_1_3?s=books&ie=UTF8&qid=1320074472&sr=1-3
I don't see Wicked Beast listed at Barns and Noble yet, so can't tell if the error will carry over to them.

Back to being crazy mad.

Thank you to all !!

2011-10-29T08:46:00.000-04:00

I can't thank you guys enough, I can breathe again. Wicked Beast was a difficult release date simply because it has been so long. Intelletually I know some will like it and some will not. Saddly my muse is a child and needs the possitive feedback. Being creative is very child-like and well, I don't want the muse to grow-up enough not to care. Not to say I can't pull on the big-girl panties and deal with things, I can, I think. LOL

So thanks again. You've made it a happy release date for me.

Working on the next book. It will not be years this time. :)

hugs
Gail

Today!! Wicked Beast is prowling!

2011-10-26T09:33:00.000-04:00

Yep, to excited. It's a failing of mine every time a book comes out. Now the agony of waiting to see if anyone likes it.

Link to get WICKED BEAST http://www.jasminejade.com/p-9654-wicked-beast.aspx

::::: pacing the floor:::::
Gail

Ohhh, so hard to wait.

2011-10-24T13:38:00.000-04:00

I can use my fingers to count the days and sitll I have to keep pinching myself.

So excited.

WICKED BEAST, Oct. 26 from Ellora's Cave Publishing

A WEEK, just a WEEK to Wicked Beast

2011-10-19T13:56:00.000-04:00

Yep, a little excited. Seemed like this story would never get out the door.

Cord has been prowling around my house for way to long, I'm gonna be thrilled to get him in YOUR house!

LOL

p.s. Cord is on a mission and he's pissed. I suggest you let him have his way with you.

Wicked Beast Cover!!!!!

2011-10-13T14:20:00.000-04:00

My kingdom for a cover!

2011-10-13T12:12:00.000-04:00

Considering the fact that my kingdom is pretty much a cardboard box, perhaps that's not the best deal ever. But I would like a cover for WICKED BEAST.

Doing my best patient face.

So Cord strolls into the Cave Oct 26, 2011

2011-10-12T15:14:00.000-04:00

You know, he's on a mission and he's pissed. I suggest you let him have his way with you. ::::grin::::

Here is a little bit of Cord.

“Kiss me,” she whispered into the silence.

He gave it to her, slow and deep. She wanted to feel cherished and he had no problem with that. He cherished the hell out of her. There was no adequate way to express how deeply he valued her, but nor was he capable of what she was looking for now, and that burned deep in his mind. He could pretend though. If it made her happy, he could be any freaking thing she needed. Ruthlessly, relentlessly.

October 26, WICKED BEAST !!

2011-10-10T12:23:00.000-04:00

How shocked was I to see that date. Don’t have a cover yet but the release date is on the Coming Soon page. WOW

New Cover

2011-09-26T16:55:00.000-04:00

So today I sent off the cover info. for Wicked Beast! It has an ISBN number and everything. Almost a real book. So excited!

Gail

East Cost Blow...um...no, Big Wind? Ah...Hurricane

2011-08-26T15:53:00.001-04:00

Praying for the people who don't get how serious Mother Nature is feeling this weekend.

Gail

Seething

2011-08-24T11:53:00.000-04:00

One love scene to write in the book and its done. Sounds simple enough. pffttttttttttttttt!!!!

It's the final love scene and I had left it 'til last because one needs to be in right frame of mind to write a gripping, emotionally charged, final for the hero and heroine. It was the only job I had today. The one thing to do before merrily sending this huge, plus novel to be read by my talented, gifted reader.

Now I'm ready to bludgeon close blood relations and bury the body in the garden. Doesn't matter that its only eleven thirty, the entire day is shot for writing. Being mad, frustrated, irritated, and a freaking lot more words that sharply decline in morality and points at my own heritage, straight screws with creativity much less the ability to write compelling sex.

#$^%&\%^}*@!@%^&&^(()$%$#@>:""!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

...with all of them.

I feel a little better. Doesn't get me back to writing the good stuff.

People have no idea how they destroy a creative mind's ability to function with interruptions. One can't just stop, deal with your little trauma, then get back to the same creative place. Its impossible. I can't seem to get this across. The words fail to penetrate. It's like I'm speaking Greek to the host of Hungarians. It seems non-creative people have no ability to even imagine how this feels. They do not stop.

Yeah, I'm ranting. Not really off the mad yet.

This and That

2011-08-23T12:59:00.000-04:00

I enjoy fall. Something about crisp mornings and chilly evenings. Its not the end of summer so much as it is the start of change. New school year, new fashion, new holidays... fall is the start of so many things.

This fall I am loving the outlook. Two books contracted and several more in the works. I get to focus on the voices in my head undisturbed for long periods of time and well, that's just fun.

I don't really have any news. No release dates or even covers to announce. Those will come soon enough.

Hope you are enjoying your fall as well.

So I sent in the manuscript..

2011-08-05T13:08:00.000-04:00

There was much happy dancing and joy until the pesky contract subject. Seems we must wait weeks for that department to send new version. Good thing the other manuscript has a signed contract and just needs a few changes to get it out.

Much deflated but still, news is this: Two books coming from EC in the near future. "Near" being a relative term. I'm excited!

Can't remember if I've posted about ANY PRICE. I know I've put some info up from WICKED BEAST.

More news to follow....sometime. lol

Thank you.

2011-06-18T12:32:00.000-04:00

So many lovely comments. I am humbled by each of you. Thank you all.

To answer what I can. Yes, there are more books. Nope, I have no idea when they will be available.

Thank you again for your kind comments.
Gail

Welcoming a New Year

2010-12-31T15:25:00.000-05:00

Wishing everyone a happy, creative New Year.

There are so many silly things people say about the past year being difficult and how the new one will be perfect. Right.

I say....Bring it on. I intend to enjoy this one, damn it.

Gail

PS Into His Keeping went to paperback this year....yaaaaa

Doing well, just not publishing

2010-10-03T07:23:00.003-04:00

Thank you for your concern, I am honored that you’ve enjoyed my books. My publishing career is currently on hold but I keep the blog up so there is some method to contact me if you wish.

Again, I’m honored that you’ve enjoyed the work.
God BlessGail

Mem. Weekend

2010-05-30T18:33:00.003-04:00

Checking in, enjoying a long weekend. I hope everyone is having fun.

Just noticed I can be purchased on Kindle now...wooohooooo!

Freedom isn't free, thank you to every person who has purchased it for me and mine.

Wavin
Gail

Passover/Easter Week

2010-03-31T12:11:00.004-04:00

Don't know what these are but they are a lush opening for spring in SC. A whole tree of them is stunning.

Hope everyone has a lovely holiday!!

Spring

2010-03-28T06:57:00.001-04:00

Another painting of mine. This one a watercolor. Daffodils make me happy.

My new painting

2010-03-27T11:05:00.003-04:00

Dream Boat- oil on canvas

Thought I'd share my latest creative activities. Um...its not a book but it tells a story, Samuel Clemons' riverboat memories. In case its not clear, this is a dream image, at night. that's the moon.

Its quite large, difficult to photograph.

Thank you for your Concern!!

2010-03-27T10:49:00.002-04:00

I am happy to say all is as well as it can be. This has been a difficult winter for so many in the U.S., my family included.

I know everyone wants to hear I have a busy release schedule this year but I can't give you that news. My style of writing has changed and I'm a bit unsure how it will be received. I know, you can't tell me until you read it and well, that means I have to get it out there. LOL. I hear you.

I have a contract with EC on Wicked Beast, but no release date, beyond that I'll have to let you know.

Thank you again.
Gail

Frosty hellos

2009-10-19T18:55:00.002-04:00

Fall is opon us. Jack Frost seems to be frolicking with Pan like abandon. A good time for a good book beside a cozy fire. Currently I'm curling up with a Wicked Beast and he is relentlessly focused....poor me. :::Victorian drama intended:::

Thank you all

2009-10-08T19:39:00.004-04:00

Thank you for the wonderful concern and interest, I am well. Sorry that I have no answer on when there will be a new book. Please do not take this personally and I apologize for the long silences. The summer was a needed break.

God bless, Gail

btw...this is one I painted this summer. Not really the sort of thing a proper erotic author should be doing...smile.

Spring Joy

2009-05-13T07:00:00.001-04:00

Hello everyone. So sorry to be gone this long, I am a bad, bad blogger.

As you can tell, my live has been busy and way to full. I’m excited about new directions but those changes mean I’ll be even less available.

Lots of positive changes have brought new directions to my life this winter. Sometimes bad things being motivation, my health demanded I make lifestyle changes. Happy to say I’m lost more weight than I’m willing to admit. LOL However, my physical struggles are not over. I’ll be away this summer.

Please, there is no cause for concern; I’d rather not discuss the details though.

I love you all, thank you for your concern. God Bless you.
Gail

Deep in Winter

2009-02-05T05:15:00.003-05:00

I'm looking out the window at Alaska. No, didn't move there, it moved here. I'm not feeling good about this arrangement. Winter white does get tiresome.

The voices in my head are very restless. Glad I've found writing as an outlet for them but it doesn't seem to hush them. A new story always seems to be pulling at me.

Anyone else get one of those Snuggy blanket things? I was given one and love it. It's so soft and warm. Excellent invention, a light, warm blanket with arms and a pocket. Haven't found a use for the pocket yet but love the entire concept.

So what is your favorite thing about being deep in winter? Mine is the Snuggy.

Way past time!

2009-01-25T06:30:00.005-05:00

The Holidays are long over and I have been silent. Yikes. Quick note to those who've written me at the website...the &^$##*& server is not letting me in much. Sorry for the wait, I'll make that thing respond. LOL

It's the dark of winter, short cold days and long freezing nights. A wicked time of year if you ask me. The long hours of darkness invite and conceal so much. As you've guessed, I love it.

The dangers are not all fun. Had a fall on the ice yesterday that was pretty bad. Nothing broken, thank goodness.

Bet you're asking when another book is coming out. I'm workin on it. And the line for spanking the author is CLOSED. (narrows eyes) Looking at specific folks...don't even think about it.

Happy Holidays

2008-12-24T06:21:00.002-05:00

Wishing all the best of the season.

May your hollidays be filled with joy.

Okay, enough of the hallmark thoughts. Hope you survive the silly season and wishing you sanity in the midst of the family melt down scheduled for this year. LOL

hugs
Gail

ASK FOR IT is here!!

2008-11-14T16:24:00.005-05:00

Link to Ellora's Cave http://www.ellorascave.com/productpage.asp?ISBN=9781419919138 I'm so excited!! The Lions of Leonor are out.

In case your wondering, Burke is next.

History in the making.

2008-11-05T18:27:00.003-05:00

History is a magnificent thing to watch. I'm so glad to be alive in this age. I think its the most exciting time the world has ever seen.

What an amazing story we are telling with our lives. I'm proud to be an American today and I hope you are too. No matter who you voted for, you are part of a country that believes in opportunity for everyone and is willing to put the sentiment into action. Most of the world will never know what it is to have this type of freedom.

GO VOTE

2008-11-04T05:10:00.003-05:00

If you haven't already, today is the day. GO VOTE.

Yep, there will be long lines. There will be frustrations. Nothing is more important than the right to vote. Not today. Don't let anyone robe you of your right to be heard.

We are all authors of our future. VOTE.

"Thanks for the free clip-art to the Just A Touch Art Studio of Jonesboro, Georgia; www.justatouch.com"

Trying new things

2008-10-30T05:34:00.002-04:00

Two months ago I joined Weight Watchers and it’s been a very good experience for me. So far I’ve lost over thirty pounds. Feeling like my goal is possible I'm all pumped up.

So now it’s time to add exercise and I’ve been looking for something I can do with really bad knees. Water aerobics would be perfect but there is not a pool available in my area. Pilates looked like the answer. I knew I wasn’t ready to join a class and stumble through whatever the program is in front of strangers. Like any good American, I took myself to Walmart and bought a Pilates for Beginners DVD.

HA! Pilates might be low impact but apparently it’s an excellent way to spend thirty to forty minutes kicking your own butt. If any of you do it, I’m impressed. I haven’t actually done it yet, just watched the DVD. Gonna try today and so glad no one will be watching.

Bit of a rant

2008-10-20T06:59:00.003-04:00

Blogland rules for Authors.
1. Thank all reviewers, regardless of reviewer’s view.
2. Silence is golden = avoid blogland battles. ESPECIALLY WHEN IT’S ABOUT YOUR WORK!
3. Read rule number one again.
4. Read rule number two again.

The rules are the same in the regular work world. Bloggers hand over money for the book and that makes them the boss. If one’s boss does not like one’s work, they get to say whatever they want. Even if it’s wrong. Keeping the job means keeping one’s mouth shut.

I realize this is difficult. One of my books gets both glowing reviews and bad reviews. The word “mess” keeps showing up in the bad ones. However, it’s the book I get the most requests for a sequel to. Very confusing. But I digress.

From an employee point of view, no one is monitoring the boss and that’s not fair. "Fair" is not a right! GET OVER IT! (unless you're a union member...)

Money changing hands is the great bottom line. If I’m taking your money for my work, I don’t get to tell you how to do YOUR job.

I guess this is a rant. I'm so frustrated with authors behaving badly.

Bloggers have been known to extend the entertainment by “going after” an author who can’t manage to follow the rules. Going to the author’s blog, website, wherever, and commenting. It's not fair and becomes a personal attack, but that's the blogger's right as long as the author is in the public domain. The most frustrating thing is, this wouldn't work for the blogger if the author would just stop commenting back!

Embracing the concept that a bad review is often good for the author is a lot like eating Brussels sprouts. Brussels sprouts smell bad and are almost never done “right”, but they are very good for a body. (I don't think I spelled brussels sprouts right but I'm currently too rushed to look it up on the Internet.)

Awsome View!!

2008-10-09T12:03:00.004-04:00

I haven’t blogged about this because I didn’t quite have the words. On one level I spent Saturday in erotic romance author heaven. On another level I was so impressed with our local heroes I could hardly stand it.

I attended the Scott Firefighter Combat Challenge. This is the equivalent of Olympic trials for firefighters. Teams from across the U.S. and Canada participate in full equipment challenges. Everywhere one looks there is an unbelievably fit firefighter, or six, watching or participating.

OMG!!! These men just have to stand there to look poster perfect. If they are watching they are in partial uniform, usually with a body-hugging type shirt so they can easily slip into the big coat. They really do stand around with the firefighter pants unsnapped, having something else on under, but um, well, it's just so freaking sexy. They can’t help it. You see my problem.

On the other hand, I’m humbled by the huge personal commitment each one of them make to doing “the job.” Obviously, hours of personal training. Their dedication to healthful living so they can easily lift two hundred and fifty pounds of human and carry a person out of harm’s way. It’s astounding.

I attended the one in Akron, Ohio, last weekend. There will be another in St. Louis October 11 and the last trial in Atlanta, November 17-18. The World Championships will be in Las Vegas November 11-15, 2008.

Go if you can. The view is amazing!

Edited to add: The winning team is from Canada. I forget exactly where. Sorta wish I'd had the nerve to congraduate them. Love that accent.

ASK FOR IT coming NOV. 14 !!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

2008-10-02T16:19:00.004-04:00

TOTALLY IRRESPONSIBLE HAPPY DANCING at Gail's house. RELEASE DATE for ASK FOR IT is NOVEMBER 14

NOVEMBER 14!!! This year!

The Lions of Leonor are humanoid, but never mistake them for tame.

ASK FOR IT is loosely related to JAMIE'S CHERUB. You do not have to read JAMIE'S CHERUB to understand this book, I'd call it a prequel in fact. So those of you asking if we're going back to that world, YESSSSSS.

Swoon ahead

2008-10-02T10:34:00.001-04:00

Ohhhhh, there is a new movie with Viggo Mortensen coming out. APPALOOSA - It's a western. I could watch him read a book and be completely entertained for two hours. Ed Harris looks good.

Harris is an actor who can really change his look. Sometimes he’s hot, sometimes he’s not. Poor Viggo is just freaking sexy no matter what he does. It must be a burden.

Hard times call for good romance.

2008-09-30T11:05:00.004-04:00

I don’t know about you, but good books make everything better, at least for the time it takes to read a book. I think authors forget this. As an author it’s easy to get caught up in the brilliant plot twists and surprise ending. Trying to tell a story like no other is the goal. But when I want “comfort reading” I don’t pull out something with a chilling ending that leaves me devastated, just like real life. I go for the story where the good guys win, the heroine is adored and the hero sets the world back on course.

Here is a list of my comfort reads. This is in no particular order. I’ve read all these books many times.

MacKenzie’s Mountain – Linda Howard
(Then I must read the rest of the MacKenzie’s series and that makes for hours of feel good reading.)
Midnight Man- Lisa M Rice
(again, I must then read the rest of the Midnight series and enjoy every minute of it)
Dark Prince – Christine Feehan
Dark Fire – Christine Feehan
Kiss of the Highlander – Karen Marie Moning
(Directly, I’m compelled to read every book by Karen Marie Moning, again. This means days of bliss.)
Fur Factor- Christine Warren
Redemption – Shelby Morgen
Tempting the Beast – Lora Leigh
Elizabeth’s Wolf –Lora Leigh

So what do you read for comfort? Or do you?

I just love this season

2008-09-27T07:14:00.001-04:00

Fall= Romance

Crisp mornings encourage one to snuggle just a little longer.

The forest dressed gold with ruby accents is the perfect place to get lost with your alpha.

Being chilly because your jacket isn’t quite warm enough is a time honored way to get his arm around you. (Trying this in winter is just stupid because of the danger of freezing.)

Lighting a fire for the first time in fall is mysteriously romantic. Don’t fight it.

Of course, Halloween is an excuse to try anything wicked, erotic, just plain bad-girl. (that is, if you need an excuse)

I just love all the festivals.

Update

2008-09-25T09:06:00.003-04:00

Yayyyyy, received the final copy of ASK FOR IT! I should know the publish date next week.

Slaving away at the other two manuscripts with contract offers.

I recently met an author who published lovely romances in the eighties. I’m working on getting her back into sharing her talent with the rest of us. Ebooks are such a different world from what publishing used to be. I realize the ebook market has always been on the cutting edge of erotic romance but I believe there is a lot of room for deep, heartfelt romance. The electronic market is expanding as such a shocking rate with the availability of computers and hand-held readers that it’s almost impossible for there not to be readers hungry for every facet of the romance world. Well, I have my fingers crossed.

That’s it for the updates today. Must write.

ASK FOR IT

2008-09-18T12:55:00.004-04:00

Yayyyy. I should know when ASK FOR IT will be released by the beginning of next month. Hopefully this winter. I'm proud to say ASK FOR IT will be released through Ellora's Cave Publishing. Ellora's two release days a week means sometimes one can slip into the release schedule earlier than most publishers.

I just posted the first chapter on the website. It should show up under the Coming Soon part.

Here is the blurb:

Ask For It
Gail Faulkner

Five years ago Sahara refused Tor in favor of her late husband. Widow of a Leonor warrior, she is out of reach, even for the high king. Goddess help him, this woman strips his soul to the savage core, and enduring it is eating through his control.

Little sister-in-law normally avoids him at all costs. Seeing her in line for an audience is a surprise. Not as humanoid as she looks, Sahara is out of time in a very intimate way.

Getting her beneath him now is a risk. Sahara summons the dominate lion within, but losing this woman a second time is not an option. The surrender he requires is the one thing she needs to give, and Tor realizes he had no idea what sexual hunger was before. Now he understands the violence of that distant age when her kind walked his world.

What he will not allow is for her sacrifice to be the blood price of peace. The future will be theirs, even if it’s his blood purchasing it.

Reader Advisory: These Lions are big and dominant. They fight to kill and love ’til death. Nothing is taboo when it comes to their females and the pleasure these males take so much pride in providing.

Sketching this morning

2008-09-16T12:39:00.007-04:00

I believe the next book I'll be releasing is ASK FOR IT.

The inhabitants of Leonor are not exactly human. This is the third sketch of a Leonor male and still Tor hasn't shown his face.

He's tickin' me off. Now that his book is written he doesn't listen to me so much. Just pats me on the butt and tells me to go bug someone else.

This is Burke, one of Tor's brothers.

Monday at last.

2008-09-15T09:03:00.001-04:00

Yeah, that’s how I feel this morning. So much work to do and when one works at home mostly, getting the family out of the house is almost blissful.

Texas and its residents are in our prayers. There is no cure for a hurricane that does not involve pain and time.

Texas

2008-09-12T11:08:00.004-04:00

The eyes of the nation turn to Texas. Our heartfelt prayers are with you.

Through the night, we'll be watching . Find a way to be with us in the morning.

Remember

2008-09-11T06:05:00.004-04:00

Remember the ones who simply went to work that morning.

Remember all those who ran towards the flames.

Remember those who chose to rush the cockpit so their lives would be the only ones lost.

Remember the ones who have advanced on the gunfire ever since.

Thank you.

Akkkk- no electricity

2008-09-09T11:04:00.001-04:00

Yep, two hours without electricity and I realized how badly I need that solar cell phone charger!! I’ve been meaning to get it now I think I’ll put it on the Christmas list of suggestions I slip to hubby.

There are so many things that can be solar powered now. I want them all! Bet you think I’m going green. Green is a very attractive outcome, but mostly I need my stuff to run! I am seriously dependent. Going off now to see if there is a solar charger for the laptop. Thank goodness I already have a gas stove. Must have hot coffee, this is a bare necessity for life.

Editing, editing, editing!

2008-09-05T19:02:00.003-04:00

We all know I’m a special project with the editing, I adore my critique partner and her sharp eye. The woman wears a cape and tights, red of course. She’s my hero. My EC editor, Mary Moran, walks on water in her spare time.

Three manuscripts in the editing process is a formula for insanity. Just so ya know.

With everyone else I’m watching the east coast. You guys be safe. Tropical storms/hurricanes, I don’t like them. Living in South Miami through Hurricane Andrew was enough for me.

I'm proud

2008-09-04T09:27:00.003-04:00

The political race this fall is amazing. I’m not advocating one party or the other, I’m saying we are at this juncture in history because Americans keep fighting to make the future a better place. It doesn’t matter what your background, your ancestors fought oppression to get you to this place.

I’m so proud to be an American. Our choices will change the future and it's all up to us. Voting is a right paid for in blood. Do the right thing, respect it. Whatever choice we make in November, we are showing the world that freedom works.

Disgusted with the press...again

2008-09-03T06:04:00.001-04:00

The greedy, vicious, soulless beast that is the press during an election year has focused itself on a child. I don’t care what the politics are, my stomach turns as they relentlessly try to publicly strip the very young woman, Miss Palin, as opposed to talking about issues the election should be about.

I thought about writing a letter but since I’d have to do it to every news organization, I became discouraged with that. Showing my displeasure by clicking off the news seems a passive response to actions the truly make me sick. Blogging it felt right.

Her actions, right or wrong, are not a mater for lewd, national entertainment.

Writing a blub s*cks

2008-08-30T07:57:00.003-04:00

Blub must be 130 words or less, including title and author name. Must be HOT to match the book. Must be TRUE to the story. - grin-

Below is what I'm working on for ASK FOR IT. Currently 132 words!

First, is it HOT? Would you want to read book after reading this? Second, what two words can be cut??

Ask For It
Gail Faulkner

Five years ago Sahara refused Tor in favor of her late husband. Widow of a warrior, she is out of reach. Goddess help him, this hunger drives males to fight nations for the right to one woman. Need strips his soul to the savage core.

Surprised she is in his audience hall, she finally comes to him with a problem. Not as humanoid as she looks, Sahara is out of time in a very intimate way.

Getting her beneath him reopens Leonor’s violent past, he’s good with that. In his arms she is safe to surrender as her nature demands.

What he will not allow is her sacrifice to protect his world. The future bought in blood will be theirs, even if it’s his blood purchasing it.

Armed with a glue gun as well

2008-08-29T05:55:00.004-04:00

Lurvvv my glue gun as well. This is an oriental sorta wall hanging. I do junk with little wooden bird houses too. I love doing it, but ultimately have no idea what to do with them when I'm done "making" them. I don't want twenty sitting around my house. -sigh-

It's the making part that I like best.

Art on paper is much easier to simply put away. I have a stack of them framed, piled against the wall in the garage.

I know, you're going to say sell them. Here is the problem. I don't wanna do the face-time to do that.

I don't have to "face" my editor, or others I submit a MS too. I just send it and wait. To sell crafts one must sit in booths, or stuff like that. Shudder! Besides, it would take a lot of time and never actually "make money" in relation to the time involved when I could be writing.

Cliffhanger ending

2008-08-27T14:57:00.002-04:00

I did root around for art I might have on disk. There are only a few. I don’t like how my art comes out in a photo, so much detail lost. Also I don’t sell it so no need for photos.

This is an unfinished pen and ink with watercolor. I’m thinking the title should be something about how one feels when coming to an abrupt ending in a book? Hehehehe

Image: All rights reserved Gail Faulkner

The YELLOW BUS

2008-08-26T09:33:00.003-04:00

I want to hug it and kiss it!

This feeling passes, but it's a rush now.

And just so you don't get the wrong idea, I adore the pixi but we are both ready for school when it starts.

I love garage sales!

2008-08-22T08:40:00.003-04:00

Labor Day weekend is coming up and this year I’m joining the national pass time of exchanging junk. The problem with being a seller is figuring what to put out and how much to ask.

My philosophy is, if I put a thing out for sale, I want to get rid of it. Therefore pricing should fall under the ridiculously cheap label. However, members of my family feel value of the item should be considered. You can see where this is going.

For me, the fun of garage sale hunting is getting a bargain. I don’t want to haggle over it, I just want to pay my money and go away happy. As a seller I don’t want to haggle either. I want the stuff to go away so I’m happy.

So what is your philosophy? Pricing ridiculously cheap? Pricing giving you, the seller, room to be haggled down and still get what you wanted for the item?

Makes me crazy

2008-08-21T10:33:00.004-04:00

Every time I read the manuscript I’m polishing, there is something stupid or wrong I didn’t see the last ten times I read it. How is that possible?

I know it happens to every author, doesn’t mean I like it.

So this should tell you that I’m in the final stages of polishing and feeling a bit frustrated. I adore this story. I’m going cross eyed.

The good news is I’ll have a publish date soon. ASK FOR IT, is the shape shifter prequel to the JAMIE’S CHERUB sequel.

If you’ve read JAMIE’S CHERUB you might have noticed that Dominus has a natural aversion to wolves. Mmmmm…There could be a very natural reason for that. Enough hints. LOL

Just when I think I've seen it all.

2008-08-20T11:07:00.004-04:00

A true, blooming idiot comes up with a new way to be awesomely foolish. If you need to know what the latest way to alienate the blog-o-sphere and make ones editor hate you, click on over to http://dearauthor.com/ and read it, but that’s not the point of my post, just the flash point of inspiration for it.

Fan-girl props to Dear Author, btw.

Seriously, being an idiot seems to be all about the creative process. They are the ones who are constantly amazing me. All this time I thought being brilliant was about being smart and you know, having common sense. Now I see it’s not.

-Smacking forehead- My thinking on brilliant was all wrong. Who knew?

Ah...what?

2008-08-19T15:43:00.003-04:00

Is someone trying to send me an E-Card? Or is it a scam? I keep getting notices that I have an E-card but the email does not have any personal information. Everyone knows not to open links in email from spam mailers.

The deal is, I don’t open links. If it doesn’t say “You have an e-card from…” I am not opening it.

JAMIE’S CHERUB in print prices

2008-08-18T07:05:00.002-04:00

I was checking around the internet and found people selling used copies of Jamie’s Cherub for $59.99 and up to $98.00. Wow, what a compliment. No, I don’t make a penny form used sales but I’m still thrilled.

So I thought it’d be a good idea to explain that ASK FOR IT is a prequel to the JAMIE'S CHERUB sequel. Contracted through Ellora’s Cave, ASK FOR IT will come out this winter or spring. I don’t have release date yet but will be posting that date as soon as I get it.

There are two prequel books in the works, ASK FOR IT and working title LEAD ME ON before Dominus Serillieus’ story, working title ELUSIVE CHERUB.

Summer is an Alpha

2008-08-16T07:54:00.003-04:00

The waning of summer is a lover’s long goodbye. He leaves every gift he can think of in the harvest excesses. Then he drapes his soon to be missed love in rich burgundy and gold robes of fall. The last lingering kiss of Indian Summer is his reluctant farewell.

Enjoy the melting kisses as days grow shorter. He doesn't wish to leave, but he must. Summer is an alpha, determined to to gift his lady with all the supplies she needs to survive his absence. He'll be back in spring, a roaring avenger to rescue her from winter's wolf.

It's coming!

2008-08-15T11:11:00.000-04:00

Two weeks ‘till the yellow bus comes! Both I and the child have short timers’ disease. We can hardly wait. Of course our reasons are hugely different, but still, just saying.

Finished a manuscript this week and I’m looking forward to getting a release date to tell everyone. Still waiting to hear if another manuscript has been accepted.

I really don’t feel like doing a thing today, which is sad because there is so much to do. The house needs cleaning. The wash needs doing and so do the dishes. Well water means no dish washer. I live in the wilderness. –sigh-

A few of the thing that happen to men

2008-08-11T16:30:00.002-04:00

He develops a codependent relationship with his grill. It somehow reflects his Y chromosome awesomeness. I don’t understand this so I can’t explain it but males will say to each other. “Where’s your grill? You do HAVE a grill?” In the same tone one would say, “You do have balls?! Right?” In few males this relationship also transfers to the mowing equipment, but certainly not in all of them.

Shortly after the wedding a male who has previously been living on his own for years will suddenly experience catastrophic laundry information loss. Inexplicably, he has no recollection of how to run a washing machine or dryer.

Again, shortly after any type of wedding ceremony he will experience Ice Tray Phobia. This is the belief that refilling an ice tray will result in erectile dysfunction. It’s the only explanation for a male who will use all the ice in four ice trays and replace them in the freezer, empty. Upon opening the freezer looking for ice he is forced to call his wife and ask if they have ice. Since he is gazing in confusion at the empty ice trays, I am unsure where he thinks she is hiding the missing ice.

One of those weeks

2008-08-09T18:09:00.001-04:00

This week I’ve been to the DMV, the emergency room and had a deer commit suicide by car.

Was at DMV to renew license. That night my eye tissue swells up so I can’t close the eye. I think I have pink eye from touching stuff at the DMV and go to the emergency room. I don’t have the contagious pink eye so I just wasted my time and money. Top that off with the emergency room rent-a-cop being rude because I couldn’t find the button to push to open the door that lets me out of emergency room. Eye swollen = hard time seeing buttons! What a jerk.

Today the deer thought it was a good day to die and wrecked my car in the process. That’s very traumatic for the humans involved.

Thank you for the kind comments on my quick sketch of a Leonor male. I’d scan in my good art but most of the pieces are too large to fit the scanner. I’ll have a look at the portfolio and see if there is anything else.

Drawing of a Leonor Male

2008-08-06T10:53:00.008-04:00

I promised a sketch.

He is humanoid but don't let that fool you. The Lions of Leonor are NOT tame.

Edited to add: Sorry, I couldn't get the smirk off his face. He thinks earth females are adorable.

Hiding out in August

2008-08-05T09:14:00.000-04:00

August is the month when summer becomes a thread-bare tank top. The material is soft with much washing. There are faint stains from the County Fair pizza drips, then the Fourth of July onion rings. Commercial grade grease never comes out. A little rip where snips used for dead heading the Zinnias slipped and almost stabbed me.

August is when those of us who should cover everything just can’t face the heat and ignore all the reasons that tank top and shorts are a visual crime. It’s just to hot for the over-shirts and capris that early in the summer created a neat, layered look.

August is the ratty tank top, lose shorts and a pony-tail.

Can't Have It

2008-07-30T15:22:00.003-04:00

You know how on a rainy summer day the children act like the house is a prison? Doesn’t matter that they wouldn’t have been outside much on a sunny day because its to hot. We all really, really want what we can’t have.

I’m enjoying exploring the concept of wanting what he can’t have with a certain lion humanoid. Needless to say, his species is made up of extraordinarily alpha males, especially when dealing with a little female who embodies the scent of seduction. It’s not her fault. She doesn’t even know what she does to him and he has to keep it that way. As soon as he’s found what he came for, Burke is going to declare Earth a forbidden planet.

Earth might be beyond the rim but it sits in the darkness of space like a succulent jewel. Slavers would eagerly strip it of these amazing, sexually compelling females if they found out about them. Didn’t matter how diligent Guardians are, the lizards would find a way. Plentiful and sexually available with no deadly, natural defenses, Earth woman would be far more valuable than any contraband drug.

Burke is shocked when he realizes the little Earth woman doesn’t think she’s attractive at all. Her standard of what’s attractive seems to be based on the look of underfed famine survivors. Burke isn’t about to explain how the lush curves of her figure are specifically designed to drive a warrior insane. He'd crushed the back of one of her kitchen chairs the other morning when standing behind her he'd watched as she bent to find an item from under her sink. Thank the Goddess she'd believed him when he said he'd tripped and grabbed it for balance. When was the last time anyone saw an adult feline trip?

Getting that body under him is a fantasy he can’t afford but it’s becoming increasingly difficult to resist. Are all human women ignorant of the personal space concept, or just this one who drives him out of his mind?

Lordy, having this much fun in my head should be against the law.

What a Brick!

2008-07-28T17:45:00.004-04:00

As a NASCAR fan I enjoy a little speed with my race watching. Sunday’s Brickyard 400 was a pit road chess match with a few caution laps thrown in. Who knew there was actually a way to take the drivers out of a racing event?

My morning

2008-07-24T09:13:00.000-04:00

It’s a lovely, perfect day in Ohio. In the middle of winter it’s hard to remember this type of day does come. Winter is very gray in Ohio. I have no idea why it’s so overcast in the winter months but I do know endless days of gray are depressing. However, it’s a good time to escape into fantasy and therefore a great time to write.

Back to the lovely sunshine of today, I’m resisting the pull of weeding and such to spend some time with the lions of Leonor. Yummy. My muse has them lounging around in the sun pretending to be patient with me. They are not a civilized as they’d like everyone to believe. Just because all that power is focused on protection doesn’t make them tame.

Tor is more relaxed than his brothers. The fierce high king of Leonor has his desert flower under his arm and no intention of letting her out of his sight. Sahara is no fool. If the big cat needs to spoil her, she’s happy to let him. It pleases him and when he’s content everything is much calmer.

Burke is the one pacing the yard perimeter. At over eight foot, he’s a bit intimidating. His mission to earth is much more dangerous than any of us knew. Earth women have no idea what their affect on a Leonor warrior is. When he’s found what he needs here, Burke is going to declare this a forbidden planet and then take himself to the other side of the galaxy and spend a year on the rim. Two if he’d not over the draw of what he’s found here.

The third brother regards his siblings with tolerant amusement. He feels a bit sorry for them. That superior attitude is a dangerous thing. Earth women are a challenge he’s not prepared for.

ASK FOR IT excerpt

2008-07-21T14:26:00.004-04:00

I'm happy to say, this manuscript is very close to having a contract on it. Soon as I know I'll be letting you know.

I did draw Tor, but sadly left the drawing out of state. That's alright, it was only a first draft. I'll be doing another one soon and promis to post it.

Remember, Gail needs editing. Read at your own risk.

First, he had to get through the pleasure-torture part. Alone in a room with her was pleasure and torture. He prayed the Goddess for the strength to respect little desert flower’s space. If he had any sense he’d avoid being alone with her at all costs. He had no sense around her, none.

Damn, he needed his head clubbed, repeatedly. Both of them. At some point he’d have to accept her distain and stop wanting what he’d never have again. Stop needing with the obsessive greed of a synth addict. A warrior could not live like this forever.

The anteroom door clicked shut. Tor braced mentally to take the next hit. As expected, she tugged her wrist out of his hold. Reluctantly he let her do it but took two steps further into the room, keeping his back to her so she wouldn’t see a trace of response when he faced her.

“Please, may we sit,” she suggested, smiling sweetly as he turned coolly enquiring eyes on her.

Tor frowned. What the fuck could her problem be? She’d smiled. Looked him directly in the eye and smiled as if she wanted to smile. This could to be exceedingly difficult if Sahara thought she needed to charm him. The difficult part would come after, when he did whatever it was she wanted and she quit being charming. He would endure in silence. Widow of a warrior placed her out of any male’s reach unless she chose him.

She could accomplish charming him with a brush of her hand down his ruff. She should know that. It’d worked for her in the past. The common practice of sitting across his lap while dining with his family and allowing him to feed her would probably get her any damn thing she wanted.

Tor headed to a couch. She would not sit with him but in case she thought it would help her cause, he’d give her the opportunity. Royal custom required she remain standing until he sat and invited her to do the same. Tor relaxed on the overstuffed couch that was really more of a reclining bed. Large furniture that was comfortable for sprawling was necessary to his people.

“Please sit, Beloved.” He purposely used the shorted version of her title. She didn’t stiffen as expected.

Graceful little desert flower floated to the other end of his lounger and perched on the edge. Tor regarded her from beneath heavy lids. The situation was more serious than he’d first suspected. Now he was reluctant to ask what she needed. There was only one thing he could think of that would bring her into his lair and onto the same piece of furniture he occupied.

The tip of his long tail casually wrapped around her slender ankle, the tuft of black fur at the end lightly caressing her foot. She still didn’t move away. Tor consciously relaxed the tightening of his gut. Touching her with his sensitive tail would have done it anyway, but this time dread threatened to stiffen his body.

What would drive her to these lengths after years of insuring he kept to a certain distance? The only thing he could think of was the one thing he could not grant her, freedom to return to her homeland. The fact that it was still a dangerously unstable planet had little to do with it. He simply could not allow her to slip away.

2008-07-17T18:10:00.001-04:00

Okay, I have failed again. It’s impossible for me to write a short story.

Good news is I’ve been offered contract on two manuscripts. Bad news is they want more in both manuscripts. Yayyyy! And more waiting for release date.

So there you have it. I’m excited. I love both worlds and am happy to stay in them a bit longer.

Yayyyyyy, the fun people are coming

2008-07-14T07:35:00.003-04:00

Yayyy, a week of play coming up. I have the fun people as house guests this week. My entire family is fun, but this gang is the action hero part of the family. They never get tired. They always have another idea of what to do to have fun. Best of all, they all pitch-in to keep the house livable while we’re having all the fun.

Can you tell I adore all my nieces and nephews? Both my siblings managed to have the most interesting people as children. My siblings are older, had kids way earlier than I did so the nieces and nephews are mostly young adults. Amazing, totally enjoyable young adults who simply take care of whatever they see needs doing in the house and can stay up all night to watch the entire Firefly series. I love them!

I adore both my siblings and their spouses too and realize how lucky I am. My brother married a friend of mine and my sister married someone who became a friend. Don’t get me wrong, the entire family is not Mayberry-wonderful. We have a full basket of “nuts” floating in this gene pool. I suppose these are just my type of nuts.

Just me

2008-07-11T11:04:00.000-04:00

Waiting to hear if a manuscript is accepted is bad. Waiting to hear on three of them, torture. I have no idea how this happened. Usually I finish one and submit it. Work on another, or two others, but never have more than one done at a time. I used to think that was a bad thing but now I’m tied to my inbox in breathless fear and anticipation. Grrrrrrrrr

The county fair was like walking through the dark side of Mayberry. You didn’t know Mayberry had a dark side? Let me tell you, it’s ugly. The county fair is apparently the time to drag out one’s best Goth look or have absolutely no interest in appearing human. It varies.

The child loved it. She won a huge prize and thankfully doesn’t like the scary rides.

I’m not going to post an excerpt. What happens if the book is not accepted? As a writer I’d hate to have to say that. You would naturally want to know where the book is if I keep putting up excerpts. So all you get is my slightly disgruntled point of view. Isn’t that special? LOL

Wish I had more things to talk about

2008-07-10T08:00:00.001-04:00

One of my pet pevs is a blogger who does not update it. If I take the time to read their thoughts, I want fresh thoughts every day. Humph. See my problem? If it bugs me, I should be able to make sure my blog has something new everyday. As you can see, not working so well for me.

Here is all I got. No news on publishing dates or submitted manuscripts. Haven’t had time to read any good books.

As a family, times have been tough. We’ve buried two family members in two months and a friend of the family. Makes connecting with each other urgent. I will have family house guests through the twenty first. Should be a hectic time but I’m enjoying reconnecting with some family members I haven’t seen in years. A suicide in the family gets peoples attention. I believe that’s the only good thing to come of it.

County Fair

2008-07-08T07:42:00.000-04:00

Home from Hannibal and the summer fun continues!

The County Fair is OPEN! This qualifies as cause for rejoicing in some quarters of this family. Me, all I see is much walking and standing around in the sun while the munchkin rides those things that scare me to death. I look around at the carnival workers and can’t muster positive feelings about their construction skills. I want to personally inspect the nuts and bolts of every ride. Grrrrrr.

Then there is the food. I guess I’m a chronic worrier. If the food is not deep fried as we wait for it, how do I know it’s clean? Of course, deep fried is the worst nutrition.

Packing my handy wipes, hand disinfectant, band aids, bottles of water, pulling on the walking shoes and going to the fair.

At the Home of Mark Twain

2008-07-05T16:26:00.003-04:00

Having a wonderful 4th in Hannibal. There is an antique shop everywhere I look. Also the views of the Mississippi are amazing. Hannibal's flood walls held so there is no damage. I've fallen in love with this charming little town.

A really fun thing I've had time to do this weekend is draw. One of the stories I just completed features humanoids with distinctly feline features. I was able to sit down and draw what Hero I've been seeing in my head. When I get home I'll scan him and post. You'll see why he would not allow me time to finish another book before doing his story.

Hope everyone is having a fun and safe holiday!

Promo on steriods

2008-07-03T07:37:00.002-04:00

I’m talking about live action, movie preview book teasers. It’s the biggest thing in promo.

Problem is, I’ve never seen one I liked, or even enjoyed. Realistically, there is no way a book teaser can live up to actual movie previews or even rock videos. I guess my question is, why do they keep making them? Okay, the people who could answer don’t read this blog, I realize that. But still, seriously, they are stupid compared to the visuals we’re used via TV and movies.

I have seen many Power Point type promos that force me to buy the book. I love watching them. Am I weird? LOL

Here is why this is on my mind. I went to a favorite, famous author site and saw a book I’m waiting for is soon coming out. They made a video teaser. It %^@#!1!!! Ah, I mean, I was disappoint with the visuals and really wished I hadn’t seen it. However, I had no control over pushing that button. I knew every other video teaser I’ve ever seen actually detracted from the book for me. I still pushed the button. I watched the whole thing.

Is there a group to deal with this? Twelve steps? Something?

Its good to be a dreamer.

2008-07-01T09:00:00.002-04:00

We all know I’m an escape artist. Stepping into another world in my mind is something I perfected long ago. It has always come in handy as a way to escape stress. Seriously. Finding that others like going to that other world with me was surprising.

The point is, the next three weeks are filled with stress for me. Should have a great book out of it. LOL

For those of you asking about Blind Fire, I’m not done with it yet. Some books take longer to write. I don’t know why. For me, the pace of a book is unique to that book. There is one manuscript that took me five years to write. Twice I’ve written a book in a week. Most of my other work has taken six to nine months to write. Still, that's short and I wonder if those books would have been better had I let them sit after finishing and then gone back to them. Actually, I’m sure they would have been better, which is why I don’t read my own books after publish.

Right now I have three completed manuscript waiting for word from various publishing people. It’s been a long time since my last release, sorry. If I wrote faster the story would be garbage and you’d hate it. This does not mean stop asking for what you want. It's encouraging to hear what you're waiting for.

Another update. The JAMIE’S CHERUB world will shortly have a sequel. Currently it has a prequel, but the story stands alone. It’s one of the completed manuscripts. There will be another prequel and then the big book in which you'll realize you’ve read two prequels already. You ask, why did I write them this way? The best answer is, this is how they speak to me.

No one ever said my muse was a good scheduler. Don't tell him I said that.

from working title WICKED BEAST

2008-06-30T07:13:00.002-04:00

Something from Cord and Kelly. Hope you enjoy.

Kelly distracted Cord from his thoughts as her head turned into his body and her lips glided over his neck. Exploring him with lips and tongue she ate her way up under his chin, nibbling along his jawbone. He gave her about two minutes to explore then he’d had enough.

Intoxicating witch had no idea what she did to him. He’d been as gentle as he knew how to be so far. Trying to ease her into accepting what he was. Last night’s restraint had cost him more than he cared to think about. Her tongue licked through his control with the same destructive power of a wildfire wind-walking a California forest.

Hard lips captured her mouth, punishing the little explorer for lighting the fuse on his libido. He loomed over her as his mouth demanded she open for him. Her melting acceptance only slightly mollified the beast. One of his hands moved from her back to cup her head, holding her under his mouth as he plundered the sweet interior.

The kiss was hot, urgent and a drawn out journey into sexuality. He thrust into her with leashed power, letting her know exactly how he’d like to be thrusting into another part of her body. His firm hand palming the back of her head demonstrated the control he would take of her pleasure. Ruthlessly extending the kiss into an endless demand showed her that next time would last a long time.

Kelly moaned, her body shifting under the blanket as heat bloomed between them. Her breasts suddenly felt heavy, the nipples aching. His mouth would not release her so she pressed into the hard ridges of muscle of his chest and tried to relieve the ache by rubbing over him. And still he plundered her. Her hips rolled as she rubbed her legs together. A firm hand grasped her hip bone, holding her still.

As he lifted from her mouth at last, holding her immobile at head and hip, Kelly sucked in a sharp breath. His eyes were shielded by lowered lids but they were molten smoke. Yesterday she had thought steam was the color of his eyes. Today he looked at her through the gray warning of fire within.

In the Comany of Friends

2008-06-29T07:44:00.002-04:00

I can’t say how life affirming it is to be in your company. Each expression of caring is a gift that brings the intangible strength of the giver.

Sorrow is a bitter dish. Getting through it seems impossible. Each word of understanding and concern is you coming to take a little of it off my plate.

Thank you.

There is nothing to say.

2008-06-27T22:41:00.003-04:00

There are no words, no thoughts, no expression that can encompass the pain when a family member commits suicide.

A cousin, a few years younger than I. Such an amazing artist who would not let the world view the passion within. A life written in lyrics to personal to share.

So much loss.

Suicide is a black hole of emotion that consumes anyone near. Pointless thoughts of what would have made a difference. Parents fed through a shredder but not allowed to die with the child. Suicide ends nothing.

There is no noble cause to comfort family. No villain to punish. No accident to blame. There is nothing but pain.

I suppose there are twelves steps or something. Life does go on, but not today.

Garden Explosion

2008-06-27T08:45:00.001-04:00

Apparently six rows of healthy strawberry plants yield way more fruit than the planter thought. My father is a farmer to the bone. He loves planting things in excess. I have banned him from planting more than two zucchini plants because of past years explosions. After years of ignoring that ban he might have realized no one likes that much zucchini.

He has channeled the zucchini energy into strawberry plants this year. I love strawberries. Now I have to figure out what to do with a couple tons of strawberries so of course, I’m going to make jam!

Um…never done it before but I’m a computer literate woman, I know how to use a search engine. So, I’m armed with recipe and wax to seal results in glass containers. Have instructions on totally disinfecting glass by washing and then boiling containers. Then letting nothing touch glass before pouring in jelly stuff. Letting jelly cool some, not to much, before pouring hot wax, letting that cool and adding second layer of hot wax. I have cleaned, sliced and frozen mountains of strawberries. Timing seems important in this process, and a lot of boiling things. I’ll let you know how it goes.

Computers - they have a plan to deal with humans.

2008-06-26T06:14:00.002-04:00

I have three computers. Does that sound excessive? It does to me. I don’t want three. One that works properly would be nice. I'm suspecting these three of artificial intelligence and sinister intentions. They have personalities.

The oldest is a basic desk pc. It’s slow and has ticks, functioning with a distinctly grumpy attitude. On this computer, Internet Explorer does not function at all. However, I can get online with other providers. Sometimes Windows Control panel stops working and has to close. That makes it difficult to change programs, but I can work in whatever is open when the failure occurs. Grumpy refuses to load voice recognition software.

Computer two is a chubby, old laptop. Heavy and a little loud, he refuses to see any wireless network at all. I know the wireless is functioning in the house, chubby laptop insists Windows can not configure it. He accepted the voice recognition software though.

Computer three is a light little laptop that is the most spoiled bit of plastic and motherboard you every saw. She came with Vista so has a voice recognition program and will NOT accept any other voice recognition program. Her program works at a twenty percent correct rate. Very bad.

She has an internal partition for backing up and her system requires back up to function. The partitioned space is too small so the computer stopped working. I had to buy her an external hard drive to back up too

The mouse indicator disappears when she gets hot. So I bought a cool pad for her. Mouse worked fine for four days. Because of the jump in electric costs we have not turned on the AC yet. Today the princess computer went black screen. I’m assuming it’s the heat and humidity because sometimes she gives me the screen back, but only for a while.

The temperature in north east Ohio has not cracked eighty for three weeks. It’s not that hot!! Yelling this at her does not get a working screen.

At wits end. Must work on computers. Dread trying to get a new one. How do I know it will work? My eye is twitching and I expect other ticks will start soon. Silly, spoiled computer has a hostage, the manuscript I just started.

Ahhh Summer

2008-06-25T09:17:00.001-04:00

This summer we have prohibitive gas prices. Our electric bills are jumping at least twenty percent because of said fuel costs. Food prices for the staples are rising accordingly. What fun!

My plan for summer fun:

Stop eating store bought food. I can’t afford to drive to the store anyway. Find new and exciting ways to use dandelions for salad greens. Millions of bunnies can’t be wrong. Make gardening a serious job as opposed to the fun pastime it used to be. Possibly learn the pleasures of canning. Certainly make own jams and such from farmers market items. Doesn’t that sound special?

Spend middle of day in the above ground pool we bought several years ago that is too small but what the heck, its water. Can’t afford the AC so we’re calling it the Aqua Excise Program, or the prune experiment.

Do house work before sun comes up because of heat.

Write…um…after dark when I’m done canning, jelly making and such, have put the kidlet to bed and convinced her sleeping with a fan is what she wants to do. Use found lantern for light. It’s romantic and should inspire the writing. LOL

You think I’m kidding?

More waiting

2008-06-20T08:01:00.002-04:00

I just sumbitted another manuscript. I really hate the waiting.

Here is a little bit more of ASK FOR IT.

“My Lord, please. I require no special privileges,” Sahara insisted and stopped walking, tugging on her wrist in his hold.

Tor turned to face her. He didn’t let go. “Special privileges are yours and you will attempt to receive them graciously. My brother’s widow will have every privilege I can bestow on her. What do you think my example tells the general population about how to care for the widows and orphans in their families? Eternal Bells, woman. Do I have to explain this to you in public?”

“Ah, I didn’t think of that,” Sahara mumbled a guilty glance at the crowded room and stopped resisting.

“No, you didn’t. Your only thought was being difficult,” Tor rumbled in suppressed irritation. The only reason she bought his flimsy excuse was because she was an out-worlder. A beautiful, fascinating smooth skin who shattered his composure just that easily, by appearing. Looking at her was all it took. His balls tightened, his cock threatened to swell and he was left feeling like a rutting fool with no control.

Introducing Tor

2008-06-16T18:21:00.003-04:00

ASK FOR IT is futuristic or Sci/Fi, I'm not sure what makes it one or the other. Here is the opening, besides editing, I think it will stand.

Remember, Gail needs editing! Read at your own risk.

Tor hadn’t planed on killing anyone today but a male at the back of the line was earning himself a future measured in minutes. Bastard was trying to talk to her. What the drednell was she doing in his audience hall? Bastard had better not touch her.

Soft leather shifted on massive thighs as his body tightened in tension. Vicious claws extended, gripped the throne arms then disappeared. She did this, forced him to think about controlling his body. One side of his muzzle lifted in a snarl, baring a long incisor.

Low in his gut possessive-want fired up. It was more than lust and it throbbed whether she was here or not, an open wound that never healed.

Tall for a human, her perfectly proportioned body drew male eyes no matter how simply she dressed. It would be impossible to disguise those firm muscles giving her sleek curves. Tor wouldn’t mind if she tried though. The simple dress just highlighted natural beauty instead of concealing it. Tilted gray eyes shadowed by lush lashes gave her glance mystery. The killer was her full lips. They teased a male regardless of what she said or did. Her mouth was made for kissing. But more than that, no heterosexual male could look at those lips and not imagine them wrapped around his cock.

Tor hated that. It wasn’t her fault she was built for sex. He knew she fought the impression but dark, erotic invitation wafted around her. Not the normal sex one thought of when looking at a beautiful female. No. With her it was edgy and dangerous. Less confident males always backed out of her path.

“Why is the Beloved of my Brother standing in line to speak with me?” Tor questioned his Visor, ignoring the two males arguing their dispute before him.

“She insisted, My Lord,” Karloff, High Visor, bowed as he responded.

“Unacceptable,” Tor snapped. Thick muscles bunched in fluid grace as he rose from the throne. Well over seven foot, the dark ruffed Leonor king was an imposing figure as he looped off the dais.

Offence rippled through him but it couldn’t come close to his strongest response as he neared the woman. She drew him with such power it was difficult not to feel mesmerized. His eyes never left her form the moment he realized she was in his lair. The back of his neck burned in battle ready awareness as he covered the distance separating them.

“Beloved of my Brother,” High King Tor greeted Princes Sahara.

Tor inhaled deeply while reaching for her slim hand. The subtle scents of the wind washed through him. Her scent. Light, elusive, much like the woman whose hand trembled in his lose grip. The tremor stopped as she pulled out of his grasp. Fierce, golden eyes remained locked on cool gray ones as she bent a knee to him.

“My Lord,” Sahara responded.

“What insult is this that you stand in line to speak with your brother-in-law?” Tor growled. She would ascribe his harsh tone to the subject of his question, not the real reason he could not keep inflection out of his voice. She had pulled away from him. She always pulled away from him. Except for that short time, the little desert flower eluded his touch at every opportunity. Tor cut off the memory he could not afford.

“Ex-brother-in-law,” she corrected softly. “I am simply waiting to speak with the king like everyone else. No insult intended, My Lord.”

“Widow of my brother does not make you an ex-anything. Come,” he directed, capturing her wrist in a light hold. “We will speak in private. The insult is enough already.”

“Oh but, all these people are waiting to see you. I don’t want to make their trip here pointless,” she protested as he tugged her out of line and towards a side door.

“You should have considered that before getting in line instead of contacting me directly,” Tor responded tightly. He couldn’t cross the wide hall fast enough without dragging her. He was tempted to pick her up but that would become complicated when he refused to put her down. He wasn’t delusional enough to think he’d stop touching her if he managed to get her in his arms again.

ASK FOR IT coming soon.

I've been away

2008-06-13T08:29:00.003-04:00

Going out of town can be a gamble. There are places and people who do not understand having Internet access is a staple of life. They seem to believe food, air and water are the main requirements to sustaining life. pfff!!!!!!

So here I am, limited Internet access and all. I feel naked!

I have used the time wisely though and written almost none stop. Maybe there is something good that can come from being out of touch with the rest of the world. LOL

Monday I'll be back in my own cave and very happy about it. The new man in my life does not have a title to his book. I'll work on that next week. Post some excerpts and see if ya'all can come up with something too.

Since I am on vacation I wrote a fantasy. Um, okay, one of mine. I'm feeling all "melty" about him at the moment. He's humanoid, but not so much. The feline origins of his species are very evident and oh yeah, King of The Jungle action is amazing. LOL But he's not in a jungle, it's sorta set in the future. Confused much? See why I'm so bad at a synopsis? LOL

Well, you'll meet him next week.

Yikes!

2008-05-29T16:24:00.002-04:00

I'm panicking. I can count the days of school left on my fingers. This kind of simple math used to be the cause of such rejoicing but now all I can think of is, "get the book done!"

When summer rolls around its time to be mommy first and writer second. I'm seriously considering my mother's advice from earlier today. I was going on about how I have to get this book done before school is out and she looked at me blankly and said. "Here's your ending. There was an explosion. The end."

Okay, maybe you had to be there, but it was funny.

I'm working on the next Ghost Unit book. The first draft is a little over half done and if I can get it to three quarters done I'll be freaking happy. First draft is a bare-bones story but it's much easier to add texture to the story in small bites of time than it is to get the first draft done. A manuscript has to go through at least three or four versions before I let anyone read it. Then it takes at least two versions with the critique partner before I feel it can see the light of day. Hence the panic.

Family obligations always cut into writing time as well. This time it's a sad one, another funeral to attend.

I'm also sad to say that I won't be able to attend the Lori Foster event this year. I've been lucky to go the last two years and can't tell you how much fun it is. If there is one event that only death keeps you from, this is it.

Oh well, enough of the moping around. Back to writing.

Amazing things I learned today

2008-05-27T17:16:00.003-04:00

A site that I enjoy, but primarily visit for research, took an unofficial poll today that had my attention. This board is made up of military or retired military men and women. It started as a Special Operations board but has branched out to almost every type of service. I only mention this because there are a great number of Special Ops guys. These men are fearless in every way.

It was a SEAL who started the thread with this.
” Inspired by the thread in the Aussie forum, Here is the discussion you have waiting for: wearing no underwear.

Team guys don't wear underwear. I don't own any.

How about the rest of you?”

Three pages of response later I have to say I will enjoy looking at men in uniform in a whole different way. Ladies, there is a 95% chance the man in fatigues/Dress Uni., except Whites, is Commando in every way.

Sighhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhh

SUPPORT THE TROOPS! Nothing else is. Dayammmmmn, I love being a visual person.

Fun weekend

2008-05-27T06:43:00.000-04:00

BBQ, a little sun, an excellent NASCAR race, planting my herb garden, rereading a four book series of a favorite author, Memorial Day Ceremony at the town square.

That’s what I did. Loved it! What did you do? Make something up if ya have to. LOL

Workin' at being wild

2008-05-22T09:01:00.002-04:00

Sometimes it's just funny to live on the edge of nowhere. This morning I took my first cup of coffee onto the patio.

There were five wild turkeys at the back of the field. One cock and four hens. It's spring and Mr. Turkey was doing his best to get a little procreation action. Somehow watching them I attached dialog to their actions. Mr. Turkey came out as a combination of Elvis Presley and Tony from Friends.

The four hens were all busy picking up food. Mr. Turkey would not be put off by their attention to survival. He fluffed his feathers, stood up his tail and strutted towards a hen. This is what I heard.

"Hey baby." Mr. Turkey opens smoothly in his best Elvis Presley.

The hen calmly keeps pecking the ground and subtly turns away from him. This did not discourage Mr. Turkey because you know, he has that tail thing going.

"How you donin?" he continues as he turns in a neat circle to be sure she has a clear view of all his magnificent feathers. Never mind that her back is turned to him.

Hen raises her head and glances over her shoulder. "Idiot. You look like a turkey dinner to the people in that house. Put your feathers down. We've all seen it before."

Mr. Turkey did not get lucky this morning as far as I could tell. It's tough to be wild, and a turkey.

Warn the herd, its the kind thing to do.

2008-05-21T09:26:00.005-04:00

We all have those days. The day in which, NOT using the blunt object on idiot skull is a choice that must be made, over and over again.

It is a shame we can’t warn the unsuspecting “happy people” of the world that today the SheCarnavor is looking to leave scars. In the animal kingdom flashing canines does it, a low growl, ears flicked back sends the herd scrambling out of a shebeast’s way.

Civilization, political correctness, appropriate behavior – these straight-jackets our society requires handicap the people who cling to them most. They become even more obviously clueless when a fully armed she-predator is having a bad day.

Yesterday was that day for me. I'm proud to report that no idiot blood was spilt, at least none that will be found. I watch CSI ya know.

What was I thinking??

2008-05-20T13:58:00.002-04:00

Writing can be a tricky business. To write believable characters the author draws on real life experiences with a variety of people. Most of the people in my books are a combination of many people I have known or observed. Only once have I let a character be entirely one person I know in real life. I asked permission and let the preson preread everything.

The problem arises when people I soooooooo did not think of when writing the book think I used them for a character. Insist on it. Are emphatic about it and spend long periods of time trying to get me to see that I was writing about them and I must admit it.

Without fail this is a person I can’t tell the truth too. I can deny and deflect, but I can’t actually say, “I hate heroines who are too stupid to live. Therefore I can never use you as pattern!” Or in a male’s case. “Heroes are strong men, alpha personalities. I don’t know how to write an omega hero. You have nothing to worry about. You will never show up as a lead in my books.”

The only good thing about these people is they make great secondary, idiot characters. I have yet to pattern a villain after one of these irritating individuals. The reason for that is a hero does not kill a person just because they are irritating. However, I’m beginning to rethink that.

A hero could have done it in his past, right? Just shot someone to shut them up? No? Oh, well. I guess I’ll need another villain to do it.

Writing is wonderful outlet. All that frustration can be thrown under the buss in the next manuscript. LOL

Monday maddness

2008-05-19T08:46:00.002-04:00

The best part of Monday is …um…oh yeah, the week hasn’t been wasted yet. I get to be all optimistic about what I’m going to get done in the next five days. I’m even hopeful about hearing back on a submitted manuscript.

Here’s to Monday. Hope springs eternal on Mondays.

These two make me laugh

2008-05-16T09:38:00.005-04:00

From an unnamed manuscript. Hows this for an opening? LOL

"Seeking: Dark Hero, dragonslayer, warrior, paranormal experience a plus. Politically incorrect attitudes required. Prince Charming need not apply. Shiny armor and clean white horse indicate lack of experience, refer to Prince Charming’s directive. Serious applications only, high reward for high risk. Contact Damsels in Distress, P.O. Box 42, Centerville, Ohio. Please include most recent conquered foe in resume." Jules read aloud.

"I don't think you should have listed dragonslayer. If there are dragons they've got to be an endangered species, you know?" Jules commented as she surveyed Meredith's add in the Columbus Tribune.

"Like it matters," Meredith said bitterly. "It's a joke. Seemed like a good idea at 3 a.m. Newspapers shouldn't let people pay online after a certain hour at night. Hitting the send button is too easy."

"Well, advertising for a hero in the Columbus Tribune is a little pointless. Maybe if you'd sent it to the Stars & Stripes or perhaps a New York paper it might've made more sense." Jules closed the newspaper and set it beside her coffee cup.

Both women were silent a few minutes. Sitting at a patio table outside the Old Lace Coffee Shop, they presented an unusual picture. It went far beyond simply being a blonde and a brunette. Meredith, with her pale blonde hair pulled back in a firmly controlled bun, pristine white blouse buttoned all the way up her long neck and midcalf length skirt sat across from Jules. Brunette Jules with her spiky hair, leather vest and threadbare jeans stuffed into biker boots.

"It was a gesture. You know me, I'd like to believe those kind of man really exist but I'm not an actual idiot. Even if I was at one time, life experience has straightened me out. The hero never shows up in the nick of time, there is no Calvary coming over the hill and if a woman wants saving she had better damn well do it herself."

Grrrrrrr...

2008-05-15T16:22:00.001-04:00

In the interest of honesty, I’m in a crappy mood. Read on at your own risk.

American Idol just lost me. I don’t care which David wins. I enjoyed the season up to the final four and now I have no interest watching it. I suppose I’m just too old to get interested in a seventeen year old id…ah kid. The other David is okay, but not remarkable enough to watch. Shrug.

Have I mentioned I’m not a Busch fan? There is no NASCAR race this weekend. The only good thing about that is there is no chance for the little twit Busch to piss me off.

Gas prices are insane. Government could freaking stimulate the entire country by cutting the gas taxes in half. Hummmm…how come no one has thought of that?

Speaking of stimulation, I’m all for the checks and junk, but does this mean we are all over paying taxes? I mean, if they can shell out this much money doesn’t that indicate that we are taking it in the hindquarters on regular years? Apparently. Just figured out that my check will not be mailed until the end of June. This did not improve my mood.

I am so tired of the Hilbilly, um, Hillery or Obama debate. Seriously people, do we want a woman who goes millions of dollars in debt and admits she has no actual plan to repay it? She is depending on …ah, lotto winnings?

I better quit. Take a nap. Each chocolate. Something.

Fear the silence

2008-05-13T09:51:00.001-04:00

I am a very poor example of how to wait to hear from agents and editors gracefully. Just saying, it’s hard for me to concentrate on anything while waiting. I'd actually rather get a quick and easy rejection than this echoing silence. But there is a character who draws me away from the worry.

I’m working on the next Unit book. Charlie is such a smooth player. He’s the type of man who makes me listen to slow Jazz drifting through sultry shadows. He is the rain on a tropic night, shrouding the world in welcome steam. He knows when to be hard and when to be smart, and never think for one moment that he’s not both. Quiet is the only warning one gets when he’s about to bring the storm.

Gail Faulkner News

Proposed blurb, Any Price

Cover Any Price

January

Happy Holidays

5, Count them, 5 Cups of Coffee (or stars)

What happens when I'm let out.

Amazon Mispelling!!!

Thank you to all !!

Today!! Wicked Beast is prowling!

Ohhh, so hard to wait.

A WEEK, just a WEEK to Wicked Beast

Wicked Beast Cover!!!!!

My kingdom for a cover!

So Cord strolls into the Cave Oct 26, 2011

October 26, WICKED BEAST !!

New Cover

East Cost Blow...um...no, Big Wind? Ah...Hurricane

Seething

This and That

So I sent in the manuscript..

Thank you.

Welcoming a New Year

Doing well, just not publishing

Mem. Weekend

Passover/Easter Week

Spring

My new painting

Thank you for your Concern!!

Frosty hellos

Thank you all

Spring Joy

Deep in Winter

Way past time!

Happy Holidays

ASK FOR IT is here!!

History in the making.

GO VOTE

Trying new things

Bit of a rant

Awsome View!!

ASK FOR IT coming NOV. 14 !!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

Swoon ahead

Hard times call for good romance.

I just love this season

Update

ASK FOR IT

Sketching this morning

Monday at last.

Texas

Remember

Akkkk- no electricity

Editing, editing, editing!

I'm proud

Disgusted with the press...again

Writing a blub s*cks

Armed with a glue gun as well

Cliffhanger ending

The YELLOW BUS

I love garage sales!

Makes me crazy

Just when I think I've seen it all.

Ah...what?

JAMIE’S CHERUB in print prices

Summer is an Alpha

It's coming!

A few of the thing that happen to men

One of those weeks

Drawing of a Leonor Male

Hiding out in August

Can't Have It

What a Brick!

My morning

ASK FOR IT excerpt

MORE

Yayyyyyy, the fun people are coming

Just me

Wish I had more things to talk about

County Fair

At the Home of Mark Twain