Aithne Jarretta Paranormal Romance Author

Life's Attachments May Surprise

noreply@blogger.com (Aithne) — Thu, 26 Jan 2012 12:00:00 +0000

Yesterday, my mouse died. The death had been half expected, but when it finally happened there was a twinge of sadness.

It's really a bit strange. We grow attached in unexpected ways to the little things in our daily lives. I never expected that particular mouse to work around and become part of my daily routine.

But it did. I never named him. :( Nary a Clifford, Joe or McIntyre. I hope he doesn't hold a grudge in his afterlife.

After all, he was there when I learned Twitter, remodeled my website, wrote at least 50k words and struggled with gaining insights into new character's heads.

He was a tailess wonder and worked for hours without recharging his batteries. Then after a little time spent on his zinger...off to work for me again.

I type this and realized he deserved a name. Characters in my writings flaunt their names all the time. (in fact they can become pests at times) I've been known to admit to naming my car. Heck, I've even made up names for nonexistent books.

Why not my mouse? I have a new mouse. She's white and sleek. She may take offense if the previous mouse isn't honored in some way.

So...

Clifford Joseph McIntyre; Mouse Extraordinary, Rest in Peace. Thank you for the times you've helped me with creative moves and the ever changing wisps of Muse discussions.

Pearl (my new mouse) is also grateful for what you accomplished during your lifetime. (She doesn't realize I know, but she thinks your past challenges will actually make her life easier.)

* * * * * *

Thank you for stopping by. Before You Leave:

Amazon Kindle: Concentric Circles 99¢ (Shayla's story)
Claire: the Lost Fae ~ Coming Soon
FREE: Wyndy: in a Heartbeat ~ Short Story [here]

Peace & Love be with you always.
~ Aithne Jarretta
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Twitter Friday Flash: Flashpoint by Aithne Jarretta

noreply@blogger.com (Aithne) — Fri, 20 Jan 2012 06:53:00 +0000

I like sharing this little piece of flash fiction with readers every once in a while.

It doesn't take long to read because it's a whopping 750 words. ;)

The story initially was a flash fiction challenge presented to local writers. Winners were published in the periodical The Florida Palm.

One of the memories I love about being chosen...

The periodical placed a really cool lightning flash image as the background for the whole section of pages in the article.

Enjoy.

Lancashire England: 1600

“Ow!”

Arsi stared as blood seeped through a cut created by the shattered mirror. She raised her fingers, turning them to see better in the candlelight. Black in darkness becomes red within light. The last image in the mirror was lightning flashing outside her window, giving her black hair a blue tinge.

A strange sensation spiraled within, building trepidation. Broken mirrors were a portent. She frowned at the araneous cracks. They gave the impression of a thousand facetted pieces. Mesmerized by her fragmented reflection, she began to notice a strange mist.

It seeped from the fissures, increasing in thickness, surrounding her like a shroud. An unseen band tightened around her lungs, stealing her breath. Loss of air culminated in shaky knees. “What?”
She stepped away. Her breathing, now rapid and shallow, filled the chamber, in accompaniment of her fast heartbeat. She shuddered.

Someone with a strange accent spoke. “Don’t be afraid.”

The band around her released. She inhaled sharply and threw herself away from the person who appeared.

“Ah, the blood of a phoenix, a lightning strike, and of course—my mirror.”

Her heel caught on the fringe of the hand-woven rug. She landed hard on oak planks. “Omph!” Still frightened, Arsi moved backward. She stared at him, heart thudding. “Who are ye?”

He grinned, showing very white teeth, and then pushed his hand through short black hair. “I’m Raven O’dara. I’m from the future. Don’t fear me.”

The hairs on her neck stood. He was dressed in dark, unfamiliar clothing. She frowned at black boots. Their sheen reflected the candle glow. She had never seen such in her lifetime. Disbelief welled. “The future?”

He shrugged and nodded. Spinning, he studied the room. “Humph. Let me fix this.” He swept a hand over the mirror. It became whole.

She gasped. His reflection, unbroken and highlighted by flickering flames, smiled. “Ye are a witch?” Her querulous voice echoed.

“No. I’m from two thousand-eleven.” He moved closer.

She tried to scamper away across the bed; its quilts hampered her progress. His laughter sent butterfly tingles over her skin. “Ye are a witch if ye claim to be from the future!”

He pounced upon her.

Fear and confusion consumed her. She attempted to hit him.

More laughter, and then he grabbed her wrists. His face lit with amusement. He tilted his head, eyeing her. “You’re young. Nineteen, maybe?”

She growled deep in her throat and shook her head. Warmth saturated her, thrumming through her heated blood.

Someone shouted outside. The sound of shattering glass assaulted her. A large stone landed on the floor, hostility and mayhem, its tail.

“Come out! Witch!”

Stilled by the rock’s intrusion, she tried to swallow. “I’m not a witch,” she whispered through a dry throat.

“I know.” Raven brushed his finger down her temple, moving it to her mouth. A feather light touch, across tender skin, tickled her. “You must face this in order to live. That’s why I’m here. I will take you from the ashes afterward. You will be fine.” He rose, pulling her up.

Humanity surged through the door. Frenzied, she tried to escape. There was nowhere to run. Death’s shadow appeared everywhere, grabbing and pulling her toward the abyss. Someone hit her on the head.

Blackness engulfed her, choking away her scream.

Water.

She gasped at the shock of cold wetness.

“Wake up witch!”

“I am not—”

Belligerent hatred silenced her. Rough hands clenched. The stake, powerful yet temporary, held her tightly to the place of death. Strange, its purpose should cross her mind in the midst of turmoil. She looked for Raven. There, standing at the back of the crowd. Sudden calmness blessed her.

Someone in the mob stepped through him as though he was not present. Eyes gazing upon her, he smiled.

“The end is truly the beginning.” He blew a kiss on his fingertips.

The action brought forth acceptance. She studied the wood below. Damp from the rain, it would smolder and start with painful slowness. A quick inhale and release, the fire blazed from her magic, surrounding her, tickling in its warmth.

This is who I am. In a flashpoint of phoenix fire, she sang, blissful in newfound freedom.

* * * * * *

Before You Leave:

Amazon Kindle: Concentric Circles 99¢ (Shayla's story)
Claire: the Lost Fae ~ Coming Soon
FREE: Wyndy: in a Heartbeat ~ Short Story [here]

Thank you for stopping by. Peace & Love be with you always.
~ Aithne Jarretta
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Hoppin' Kerfluffle! Plot Bunnies Run Amuck

noreply@blogger.com (Aithne) — Tue, 17 Jan 2012 22:13:00 +0000

So there I was, trying to be a good person and clean the dust bunnies from under my bed.

Why do they always start hopping around or away when I'm supposed to be focused? I should be cleaning (to prevent allergy flare ups), but to be honest I'm also thinking about the process of healing character Claire's injured knee while the vacuum buzzes it's hungry drone.

Then... there go the plot bunnies...

Story lines...plot twists... and new character challenges. They all bang around between my ears when I'm supposed to be doing something else. I think I read something about this before. That article was about a Muse gone wild.

I can believe it. (muttering to Muse) I used to think that a hyper active highlander in full regalia marching through my head was annoying.

These bunnies shed!

Give me bagpipes any day. ;D (Black Bryan is taking a sabbatical; we have a reunion planned in February.)

Back to poor Claire because her knee still needs healed. She injured it during a skirmish with the wicked daemon underling.

In the world of creating magical healing we can offer many modalities. Since I'm really into energy healing and Reiki, that's often the basis for any fantasy moves a character may include in the story line.

But, I really wanted to go a different route with Claire's knee. There will be pain. (character growth from that cute little plot bunny) The healing process may actually be rougher than the initial injury. *sigh*

I do love my characters... Really.

So I can say up front, there won't be an angel healing, no potion from Grace, and hero Leeson can't do anything about Claire's injury. (except maybe fret and swear to get the whole hound pack responsible for Clair's troubles...)

And the plot bunny? Naughty and growing like a maddening fiend.

(Think I will mention here that you can get absolutely FREE images at this link: http://fotolia.com/Info/Images/FreeImages. That's the totally free page at Fotolia and it changes every 24 hours. Sometimes, they feature nice images you would have never expected. Enjoy. ;)

P.S. Please give Rosie a pet up in the right hand corner. She's feeling neglected because human mom has been under the weather with allergies and then all this talk of bunnies...well you understand. ;)

Amazon Kindle: Concentric Circles 99¢ (Shayla's story)
Claire: the Lost Fae ~ Coming Soon
FREE: Wyndy: in a Heartbeat ~ Short Story [here]

Thank you for stopping by. Peace & Love be with you always.

~ Aithne Jarretta

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Mothers, Daughters & Secrets

noreply@blogger.com (Aithne) — Wed, 11 Jan 2012 17:07:00 +0000

While thinking about blogging the other day, my thoughts came back to the merry-go-round mentioned before. [Merry-go-round; Jump on to Catch a Plot Bunny]

It's because there's an idea flying around in my plot bunny closet about secrets mothers and daughters don't share.

Honestly, when I started this writer's journey I never considered that eventually I would be writing about a mother and daughter in such depth. Secrets can unravel and reveal family situations. Factor in paranormal elements and the stories can take far reaching effects.

In the beginning of my writing career, Shayla's mother (Claire) was a bit of a cardboard character standing back against the wall. In my mind she was something like a wallflower; beautiful, but a complete mystery.

But merry-go-rounds spin and characters grow.

The image of a merry-go-round pictured above comes from a time when blogging was a distant and future preoccupation. (Frankly, finding this picture was a memory spinning surprise ;)

As I sat here in front of the computer startled at finding the replica from my past life (childhood) a memory breathed through the airwaves in my brain. How fitting. Secrets mother never knew.

You see, in my elementary grade school years several of us loved the merry-go-round so much that I can safely say we were responsible for its eventual retirement. We exhausted it with our flights of fantasy...

See those bars that anchor into the floor? Well, several of us used to sit on the top crossbar, hook our feet under the long bar and lean all the way back as the merry-go-round spun. (Usually by the fastest & cutest boy in class running the circle. Thanks S.)

Round and round we journeyed, seeing the spinning world from our upside down perspective. No wonder I like the notion of flying so much. lol

As for my mom? She never knew about the flights of fantasy I took every day during recess.

Now see? The merry-go-round takes us full circle back to the secrets mothers and daughters don't share. (Such a simple secret, but in the beginning we all start small, and then secrets grow as we do.)

That doesn't mean mothers and daughters don't love each other.

Instead, I tend to think that daughters long for their own niche of the world and as we grow our explorations and experiences are a way to set us free.

Do those afternoons spent spinning in the world upside down have an effect on my daily life many years later?

I'd like to think they do. ;) Those flights of fantasy opened words of imagination and taught me (at school no less ;) that seeing the world through a different perspective could have wonderful results. So while many authors thank past teachers, I can say thank you to Mrs. Muse (yes, real name; 3rd grade teacher) and the playground merry-go-round for magical aspects of this life as a paranormal romance author.

You've heard it said, "Write what you know." Well, I suppose that's what I'm doing. Okay, maybe most of the time that's what I do.

Flights of fantasy mingled with imagination are absolutely grand.

Because, although I've met a human dementer, (characters written into fiction by JKR) I've never personally met a Hade's Hound (my characters). But, perhaps that's a good thing because micro-particles of faery dust are a bit beyond my personal magical capabilities.

The memories of our past can be incorporated into our writing in fascinating ways. I guess that's what's meant by write what you know. For myself, the blending of a wildly funky imagination and lifetime events brings together stories that I hope entertain my Readers.

I can't help but wonder if mom watches from heaven with a smile.

One thing's for sure, little do we realize in our youth that one day we'll look into the mirror and our mother's face will be looking back at us. Who knows, perhaps mom will wink.

Amazon Kindle: Concentric Circles 99¢ (Shayla's story)

Claire: the Lost Fae ~ Coming Soon

FREE: Wyndy: in a Heartbeat ~ Short Story [here]

Thank you for stopping by. Peace & Love be with you always.

~ Aithne Jarretta

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Sample Sunday for Twitter Fans

noreply@blogger.com (Aithne) — Sun, 08 Jan 2012 05:34:00 +0000

Description: Shayla Brinawell comes from a fragmented family. Fearful of the dangers her daughter could face, Shayla’s mother raised her to deny and hide her magical gifts. Shayla is about to have her world turned upside down and every other which way. Witch way that is. She must come to terms with her magical destiny in hyper drive.

Meekal Chilkwell has always known his life purpose. To protect the magical and healing waters of The Chalice Well located in the shadow of the great mystical Tor in Glastonbury, England. A new danger has arisen. One that threatens not only the Chilkwell family, but also the non-magical world.

Shayla & Meekal join together to conquer Syther the Quitch, an evil wizard bent on spreading darkness.

Excerpt from Chapter Eight: Death Knell

After eating, Shayla and Meekal walked through a hidden panel in the library to an upper room serving as an oversized closet. “This is where we store the linen and paper goods for the guests who stay here at the manor. It’s mostly Mari Bree and Harry who use this particular secret passage.” Meekal closed the cupboard door they stepped through and a mythic shroud surrounded them with a sense of the past.

Shayla studied the many drawers and doors built into the wall on either side. A chill traveled through her. “Kal?”

He motioned to the wall beneath a small leaded window. “Yeah, this is where two monks stayed. Their cots were there. The cupboards are a later addition.”

The window let in a sliver of distorted moonlight, casting them in silver.

“Spooky.”

“Aye. Come this way,” Meekal whispered, wrapping his fingers protectively around hers.

Next, they stepped out into the upper hall. Plush carpet padded their footsteps as Shayla followed Meekal past portraits, artifacts and live plants adorning the upper hall.

He led her to a narrow stairwell at the far end. The first surprise Shayla received was that the stairwell was an optical illusion. Three pie-shaped steps turned to the right only to end in a black wall carved with a door. Close inspection revealed the illusion of his bedroom entrance.

“Surprise.”

“How?”

“This way,” Meekal said, mischievously. He moved his hand forward to the shelves that graced the end of the hall next to the fake stairs. The oak shelf before Shayla boasted several figurines: a unicorn, a wooden box carved with runes and a Crusader helmet. The helmet was fascinating. It was made of steel with narrow eye slits on the crossbar of the symbolic cross of the Crusades. Fleur-de-lis terminals embellished the sacred symbol. Meekal’s finger glazed over the brass cross, following its shape. “Pernicious.”

Shayla’s brows rose sharply.

“No one will ever guess that’s my keyword,” he said, while he readjusted the helmet’s position on the shelf. “Even Harry doesn’t know it. Follow me.”

Shayla stepped through the doorway that had opened when Meekal spoke. “Why doesn’t Harry know? I thought he is your best friend.”

“His twisted sense of protecting me. We hang out elsewhere when we’re together. Stubborn prat. Anyway he prefers the Tor or Harry’s Pub when we take time to socialize.” The book shelves swung closed behind them, latching with a soft click.

“Pernicious was the Raven Prince. He was Fyr’s da and the person who sent Black Bry to Glastonbury. You’ll learn the history later. Perhaps Fyr will tell you.”

“Okay,” Shayla said, dragging the word out as she focused on the thickly carpeted narrow stairs wending upward. They stepped into Meekal’s room. His upper floor bedroom spanned the full size of the manor. The steps carried them up to the middle of the chamber.

The bed dominated the right side, its presence powerfully bold due to four posts rising almost to the pitched ceiling. The ceiling, marked with both heavy wood beams and modern skylights, crowned with everything with perfection. “Wow.”

“That’s why I like it up here,” he replied, voice filled with humor and pride. “I have a full view of the gardens below and the summer sky above. I’ve never been able to decide which I like best, the stars on a clear night or snow falling from the heavens.”

Shayla reached for the intricately carved bedpost. The ancient oak, hand carved with leaves and grapevines, hinted at a story. Heavy ripe fruit looked so real they tempted one to pluck them. “Kal, why grapes?”

“You don’t know? Grapes are connected with the vine mentioned in the Bible. You know, the blood of Christ? The bed has been in the family for generations. Mum wanted more modern pieces so she gave this one to me.”

At the opposite end of the room, a desk and low book shelves stood before a wide window overlooking the garden. She walked around a half wall where a flat screen TV hung, past Meekal’s workout area to a portrait positioned on the right-hand side over the desk. Ignoring the books scattered on the desk and surrounding shelves, Shayla studied the portrait closely. “Kal, is this it?”

“Aye. See the stone archway in the background?”

“Yes.” The portrait was currently empty of people. It depicted a warm summer day. She squinted, positive she could see the breeze teasing the leaves on the trees. The background was of an English hill where a ruin stood in blazing defiance of the apparent destruction of the rest of the structure.

Meekal leaned in close. “Focus,” he breathed into her ear.

Eyes glued to the archway and the sky through it, Shayla whispered, “Travel into a portrait. So cool.”

A soft breeze transported them.

“Anything’s possible with magic.”

Shayla gasped. Turning quickly, she gazed into Meekal’s room from the inside of the portrait. Her palm rested on the cool stones giving her evidence of the truth of their journey.

“Good evening to ye.”

Shayla’s head followed the voice behind her. With hands and knees shaking, she whispered through her shock, “Hello.”

Meekal grasped her elbow, leading her to a short rock wall on the interior side of the ruin. “Here, Shay. Sit.”

“Morna told me. I dinna believe.”

Shayla swallowed her own disbelief and looked up into a near perfect mirror image.

“Shay,” Meekal said gently, “this is Keira. Keira, this is Shayla.” Meekal looked from one to the other. “Well, there is a slight difference in your hair color and…”

Shayla glared at him. “Kal.”

Meekal chuckled, his shoulders shaking.

Keira smiled and laughed. The sound was musical within the confines of the broken ruins around them.

“Where are we?” Shayla stood and looked around, no longer shaking.

“This was Wiston Castle.”

“How am I supposed to get the bezoar stone from here?”

“It isna here right now,” Keira said, with a smile. “Bry will come if need be.”

“That’s right, Shay,” Meekal said. “Want a tour?”

She looked up at the wave of the broken wall. The stones of a lone archway had the look of timelessness. The intricate masonry work drew her attention. “How old is this castle? There isn’t much of it left.”

Keira motioned Shayla to follow. “The original keep of the motte and bailey was built by Gwys. Some knew him by his Latin name, Wizo. He died in eleven hundred thirty. It was taken in battle several times by different warriors and has a history of falling to treachery.”

“Shayla likes history.” Meekal said and continued for Keira. “Wiston is considered one of the best surviving motte and bailey castles. There are only five others that boast a stone keep on their summits.”

“Pfft. I love history. Get it right, love,” she said, jesting. She stopped at the top of a line of stairs built into the earthen hillside. For some reason, the stones brought to mind the thought of journeys into the unknown. She paused at the top and turned to look at the exterior of the keep.

The wall was several feet thick, broken away in some areas indicating both bombardment and the erosion of time. Shayla inhaled deeply and lifted her hand tentatively to touch the grey stones. A harsh, piercing scream penetrated her pores. She shivered, pulling her hand back in surprise.

“Shay?”

Shaking the feeling off, she turned to face the vista stretching northward. The English countryside around them rolled downward in a steep hill. The high ground of the structure was considered the motte. Below, the earth leveled until it reached an old stone wall with a split wood gate.

A rambling manor sat against the hillside. The roof was slate grey. It rested, nestled by the green rise of the outer bailey, sheltered by tall trees.

Keira’s voice cut through her thoughts. “That’s the medieval house built much later.”

Meekal hissed, a frown crossing his face, he tugged on Shayla’s hand. “We need to get back. Something’s wrong.” Turning to Keira, he said, “Sorry, to cut this visit short. See you later.”

Keira only had time to give Shayla a soft smile and a nod.

“How can you tell there’s something wrong?”

“The portrait. There’s a ley line running right through it.”

Shayla and Meekal landed in Meekal’s bedchamber to the sound of bells tolling.

“What’s that?”

Meekal tilted his ear toward the window. “Church bells.” Shaking his head, Meekal guided her toward the stairs and down.

The bells tolled without stop, timed to perfection and tone.

“Damn.”

“Kal?”

“Hurry,” he urged, leading her through the bookcase into the upper hall where they met Joseph Chilkwell.

He handed them each a vest. “Good. You’re back. Here.”

Shayla stared at hers.

“Armor. Put it on. It will protect you from some spells and bullets.”

“Bullets?”

“Just in case.”

“But,” she said, trying to shift disbelief away.

“It’s a Death Knell,” Meekal said, thrusting his arm into the vest. “Somebody has died. It’s probably Syther letting us know.”

Her heart flipped. Breathing erratically, she pulled the vest on and followed them down the stairs to meet Chaeli and Harry in the foyer.

Harry greeted them with only a slight nod and turned to Joseph. “They’re at St. Dunstan’s Chapel. Mum called James. They’re on their way.”

“Shayla, have CIARANLEXISS ready.” Joseph stilled and waited for her to retrieve him from her boot.

Coming up after reaching down for her sgian dhu, Shayla met Meekal’s eyes, and bit nervously on her lower lip.

“Ah, the anticipation of battle.” CIARAN sounded excited.

Shayla tried to act nonchalant and ignored CIARANLEXISS by refusing to respond verbally. Instead, she clutched him tightly.

A spiral of air carried them to the chapel.

[novel rated *R*]

Concentric Circles: Twin Sparks of Love is available on Kindle. Don't worry if you don't own a Kindle. You can download the FREE Kindle App below.
Comment, like, and make Concentric Circles a favorite if it serves you well.

Wyndy: In a Heartbeat is still FREE on Amazon.

Although it isn't storming in Florida today, Malik is having a rough night. There's only one way he can be saved... From the nexus of a storm new life begins.

Download Your Short Story Here.

Thank you for stopping by. Peace & Love be with you always.
~ Aithne Jarretta
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Merry-go-round; Jump on to catch plot bunny...

noreply@blogger.com (Aithne) — Wed, 04 Jan 2012 17:30:00 +0000

The Shadow Seeker's Guide to Esoteric Potions ~
No, I haven't written a potions book. I just happen to love books the same way other readers do.

So why not give them a feature blog post? Especially since as an author I have used this particular self-created title (The Shadow Seeker's Guide) to enhance the stories I write.

I will confess... throughout 2012 many secrets will be revealed here in this magical niche of the 'net. Why not start with sharing plot bunnies, and previously unrevealed props that as an author I've utilized in writing the worlds I create?

Since I write books, why not admit to making up fictional titles? (lol...yes, I know...merry-go-round. Jump on. ;)

There's a part of me that's always found books within reading a novel an interesting element. Eventually, I made the creation of books fun because I enjoyed the way they enhanced my personal reading experiences.

So I decided that occasionally books can actually rate character status in some of my writing.

Think magical tomes. Within my mind, that's just part of the fun in creating events and circumstance for a character to work through. ;D

This particular title was created in 2006 when I was still writing fanfiction. It was based on a famous scene from a very popular movie. Not from that writer's or movie director's point of view, but my own.

Sometimes, that's what I like to do; pause a movie scene and start asking questions. Who, what, where, when and how.

Who: Bad-boy character.

What: Looking for something he isn't supposed to have. (In this case: a potions book)

Where: In an over crowded bookstore. But he's on the upper level. Alone. (despite all the folk downstairs)

When: This question became age related. Bad-boy in my mind was sixteen.

How: ...did this scene play out? Bad-boy stole a potion book that he knew was off limits to his age range and parental guidance. (had already been told he couldn't buy the book)

The title of stolen book? The Shadow Seekers Guide to Esoteric Potions, by Anonymous.

Little did I know at the time of original creation that this magical title would play such an important role in several of my later stories.

You see, I pulled it off the virtual shelf and placed it in Concentric Circles when a protection ward needed strengthening around the Chalice Well.

There's an extremely brief mention in a time travel, work in progress (unpublished) where readers will see the title. The identity of Anonymous will be revealed.

And last, but not least, character Grace in Claire: the Lost Fae uses The Shadow Seeker's Guide for protection spell work.

From Claire: the Lost Fae (coming soon)

"This should have the perfect potion," Grace said and placed The Shadow Seeker's Guide to Esoteric Potions on the table. She opened the elegant black and green cover, and then began flipping pages.

From Concentric Circles

"We’ll begin your training here." Meekal opened, The Shadow Seeker’s Guide to Esoteric Potions, smoothed the page, and passed it across the table in front of Shayla.

Have I mentioned that creating books is fun? Yes!

Note: Wyndy: in a Heartbeat is still FREE.

Thank you for stopping by. Peace & Love be with you always.

~ Aithne Jarretta

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Not Fiction: It's My #Birthday! Paul McCartney Came!

noreply@blogger.com (Aithne) — Mon, 02 Jan 2012 05:42:00 +0000

When I was a kid, having my birthday right after the holidays seemed like a bummer.

Everyone else I knew could celebrate two awesome holidays spread throughout the year.

I thought June would have been the perfect middle of the year month to be born. ;)

Now, I laugh about that.

Why?

Because in 2012 my Birthday serves as a day of rest!

The holidays can be pretty hectic. Pause and remember the Christmas & New Year you've just had. I hope they were an awesome experience with the three Fs... Family, Food & Fun.

Admit it, now that things are over, don't you just want to chill and relax?

Here's your opportunity because I invite you to step back, take a deep breath and let it all out. All of it. (I'll wait.)

Listen to this awesome musical video with Paul McCartney and pretend it's Your birthday, too. (This is that chill out moment...my gift to you.)

Blessings to all my new Twitter Followers and new Bonfire Friends. You helped make 2011 a grand year and I look forward to chatting and connecting with you in 2012.

Note: Wyndy: in a Heartbeat is still FREE.

Thank you for stopping by. Peace & Love be with you always.

~ Aithne Jarretta

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Ring in the New Year with these Amazing Ebooks!

noreply@blogger.com (Aithne) — Fri, 30 Dec 2011 15:39:00 +0000

It's Amazing! 2012 is here and I'm blessed to have an opportunity to share incredible Authors with my Readers.

The idea came to some of us as we sat around the communal Bonfire. We wanted to find a way share our stories and support others at the same time. So this is our holiday celebration for the New Year.

Authors: post a blurb with your buy links & website in the comments section below.

Readers & I understand when you keep your excerpt at the PG-level.

As your Host for this little niche of the 'net, I will post here.

(novel is actually rated R)

From Concentric Circles

Shrouded in the mists of Avalon is a hidden legacy. Enter this in-between realm and discover; danger, love and new magic.

This excerpt is from chapter three: Magickal Bonds: Intertwined Souls

Shayla leaned into Meekal, increasing the feeling of belonging.

“Can you hear it?” he asked, rubbing his chin in her hair.

“What?”

“The sunset.”

“I don’t understand.”

“Shh. There’s still time. Focus on the sun’s orb, and then close your eyes. Let the earth’s song guide your inner vision to see the sunset. You’ve been attuned, so now you’ll hear it. The ancient Celts referred to the earth’s beautiful music as Òran Mór. No human has ever created anything to compare to it because it’s the combined synergy of every living creature, earth breath and ocean wave.”

She stilled, lashes resting against windswept cheeks. A slow lift at the corners of her mouth was the only indication she heard. Meekal allowed his heart to soar, meeting hers above the earth, joining in the song.

A gentle breath escaped her as the last curvature of the golden orb slipped past the horizon. Her stomach growled.

His laughter answered. “Let’s get some supper.”

A smile lit her face as she turned and leaned in for a brief kiss. “Sounds like a delicious idea. I’m famished.”

“Then so be it, but first,” he said backing up a step, and giving a slight bow. “May I have this dance?”

“Dance?”

“Aye. How did you expect to get down to earth?” He took a dancer’s stance, foot tapping the air, and hand waiting for her to step into his space in acceptance of his offer. “Shall it be a one, two, three waltz or a boogying swing dance?”

“One, two, three,” Shayla answered, entwining their fingers.

The Earth’s song carried them downward as they spun to the rhythm heard by few.

“Are you always this romantic?”

“Only for you, my love,” Meekal answered, as they stepped out of the Tower.

Amazon Kindle: Concentric Circles 99¢

Thank you for stopping by. Peace & Love be with you always.

~ Aithne Jarretta

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Wyndy: In a Heartbeat ~ Reborn for You

noreply@blogger.com (Aithne) — Thu, 29 Dec 2011 17:18:00 +0000

Wyndy: In a Heartbeat is finally FREE!

If I seem excited it's because I've been waiting for almost two months for this.

Since this is a short story, I never felt right about charging 99¢. That's why I didn't really promote it even though I love this story.

Here's the Link: Wyndy: In a Heartbeat.

Product Overview:

Short story word count: 1806

Haunted by his past, Malik rushes through a tempest filled Florida night toward an unexpected meeting with destiny. Harboring a soul that longs for unity with his mate, he tries to understand the shallow dating experiences up to this moment. He is positive there is someone with whom his heart beats in tandem. Where? He doesn’t have a clue.
Wyndy, Tempest Tamer Faery, has waited lifetimes for the return of her soul love.
Will Malik return?

This ebook package also includes a short story titled THE MATCHMAKER Short story word count: 1000

NOTE: If you don't have a Kindle or App, this short story is available at Smashwords, too. You can download other formats there. ;)

That link again: Wyndy: In a Heartbeat.

Enjoy!

Thank you for stopping by. Peace & Love be with you always.

~ Aithne Jarretta

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Reading Challenge 2012

noreply@blogger.com (Aithne) — Tue, 27 Dec 2011 17:55:00 +0000

This is where I will post info about the Reading Challenge I joined. The challenge is set up through Reading Romances Blog and I'm sharing the the link.

Why not join us and journey through 2012 by reading with us.

Challenge Guidelines as set up by Reading Romances Blog:

1. The 2012 Reading Romances Challenge will run from Jan 1, 2012 – Dec 31, 2012.

2. Anyone can join, you don’t need to have a blog. Feel free to sign-up in the comments – you can post reviews to any book site (i.e. Amazon, Barnes and Noble, Smashwords, Goodreads, Librarything, Shelfari etc).

3. Reading Romances will post a list of romance sub-genres and a few cool themes for you to choose from each month (you can read all of them or just a couple).

4. You can list your books before reading them (by leaving a comment on the Reading Romances Blog post with the topics for that month) or just put them in a wrap-up post. If you list them, don’t feel obligated to read them, changes are welcomed!

5. When you sign up in the linky, (at Reading Romances) put the direct link to your blog post about joining the Reading Romances Challenge. If you don’t have a blog, please link it to the page where you post your reviews (Goodreads, Shelfari, Amazon etc).

6. You don’t have to participate every month, but please try to!

7. Sign-ups will be open until Dec 15, 2012, so feel free to join at any time throughout the year.

I will never tell you to read one specific author, but I might suggest a few titles and authors to give you some ideas.

You can read the same author more than once and the books can be old or new, but they must be read during the course of the challenge.

Books used in this challenge may be used in other challenges.

Books can be in any format – paper, audio, ebook.

Post the button to post on your sidebar, this way others can find their way back to this post and join in the fun!

At the beginning of each month there will be a roundup post for you to add your reviews for that month. If you forget, feel free to add your reviews in the following month. It can be something simple and short, please don’t worry about it!

There will also be random giveaways during the year for everyone who is actively participating on the challenge. There might be special giveaway by the end of the year for those who read all (or most of) the topics during each month . If you are an author and want to contribute with prizes, please contact: Reading Romances.

Thank you for stopping by. Peace & Love be with you always.

~ Aithne Jarretta

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Glastonbury Tor & Mason-Dixon Line: Connected in Magic

noreply@blogger.com (Aithne) — Mon, 26 Dec 2011 09:13:00 +0000

What do the Glastonbury Tor and the Mason-Dixon Line have in common? (Aside from an author seeing the world through rose colored glasses?)

First, let's start with the Glastonbury Tor. The iconic 'faery hill' in Glastonbury is something most people have seen in images all over the Internet. Many folks have visited the Tor because the mystical aura of its sacred location draws them for exploration.

The path to the top can be a spiritually enlightening experience and perhaps even a bit spooky.

While everyone knows about the Tor, there's a bit of information that gets lost amidst the legends of King Arthur in Avalon. I'm speaking of the ley lines that crisscross the faery hill. (see my bio ;)

So, all in good fun, why not make the Tor and St. Michael's tower enchant readers within the pages of an adventurous magical tale?

And what on earth does all these Glastonbury tidbits have to do with the U.S.A.'s Mason-Dixon Line?

@ http://library.byways.org/assets/77066

The Mason-Dixon originally was commissioned to establish a border between Maryland and Pennsylvania. (see Wikipedia if you truly want a quick confirmation: Mason Dixon Line)

That happened in 1763 and 1767 (interrupted by Indian war) Note that's almost 100 years before the Civil War.

So the Mason-Dixon Line I'm writing about actually predates the separation between the north and south.

Truthfully, it was the first conflict over land lines that intrigued me even though all my life I only knew of our U.S. traditional north and south separation. (born of southern parents north of the m-d line... what does that make me? lol)

But it wasn't until much later in life I learned the true age of this famous line.

Right about the time I discovered (in American History no less) that while technical writing frustrated me, all I really needed was to add some magical fantasy to what's already there...

Imagination. Albert Einstein and John Lennon expounded upon its virtue. So why not take advantage of having a funky imagination?

So that answers the biggest question, What do the Glastonbury Tor and the Mason-Dixon Line have in common?

Answer: A funky out-of-this-world paranormal author. ;D

But that's just one way to connect these two historical sites.

How about this?

Breathe life into a story about a young woman with a fragmented past meeting a life-blood guardian of sacred sites.

Aren't muses grand?

So there I was... creating, crafting & crazing when there was a screech, a vortex of changing wind and several zigzags. Ouch!

Thank you for stopping by. Peace & Love be with you always.

~ Aithne Jarretta

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Kissing Santa... A Christmas Treat

noreply@blogger.com (Aithne) — Tue, 20 Dec 2011 18:17:00 +0000

Hi. I'm taking a brief break from Twitter to share some tidbits about my holiday story, KISSING SANTA. This tale blossoms in the heart of holiday spirit and love reunited. It's short, bittersweet and scrumptious.

Readers will find just a hint of paranormal (Santa Claus). Paranormal-lite is unusual for my stories due to my overindulgence in world building, but the reason is simple.

KISSING SANTA is inspired by several true events in my Christmases past.

You see, I grew up in one of those neighborhoods where Secret Santas roamed the streets on Christmas Eve and handed presents to children from bright red sleighs pulled by modern-day vans filled with Santa helpers and plenty of gifts. (whew! Breathe ... Aithne)

Reminiscences run deep and tug at the heartstrings. Mix those two magical elements with my three favorite story essentials; bittersweet separation, love's reunion and happy endings... What you have is a story born of romance.

The last Christmas I was gifted with the magical Secret Santa visitation N.E. Ohio experienced a major snowstorm. Wind-chill factor and huge (yet beautiful) snowflakes nearly stopped Santa... But now I'm giving too much away.

I'd prefer to share this magical moment that Lily, the heroine of Kissing Santa, has with her young nephew, Sammy.

Excerpt:

Lily wondered at Sammy's odd behavior.

With an impish shrug Sammy faced the frosty window. Then he raised his right hand, placed it firmly on the glass and held it there for a long moment.

Watching him, Lily trembled from the cold. She crossed hands over her chest and rubbed sweater covered arms in an attempt to chase away the chill. Little Sammy had been just over two years old when she left. No wonder she didn’t understand him—she didn’t know him.

Small shoulders beneath a holiday inspired red flannel shirt shook with mirth. He winked and pulled his hand from the glass.

A perfect handprint presented itself—a clear window to the exterior world. He leaned forward and demonstrated that she should give it a try. “See? It's just right.”

Surprised at his simple action, gratitude pooled around her heart. The little gift mellowed her like the warm scent of spiced cider.

She laughed softly and leaned down. There it was—the record breaking snow squall. Large snowflakes whizzed by on the bone-chilling wind. Their size and multitude completely obscured the street out front.

“He’ll still get through,” Sammy said with all the confidence of youthful innocence. “He’s Santa Claus.”

* * * * * * * * * *

If you enjoy trailers, play Kissing Santa's video. Comments are always welcome.

Today, I live far away from snowstorms. But as mentioned above, Readers can find me primarily on Twitter. The pulse of the flowing contact stream is what makes Twitter my favorite online place. I respond to all @AithneJarretta mentions and would enjoy having you join our conversation.

https://twitter.com/#!/AithneJarretta

Thank you for stopping by. Peace & Love be with you always.

~ Aithne Jarretta

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Over the Rainbow: That's Where You'll Find Me

noreply@blogger.com (Aithne) — Mon, 19 Dec 2011 23:01:00 +0000

What does a Rainbow that's envisioned as a symbol of Hope have to do with writing paranormal romance?

Depends on how you use it. ;D (okay, not just smiling...see Aithne lol ... 'tis magic)

Several months ago I found a cool blog, The Bookshelf Muse. It's a wonderful collection of writing tips for authors. Actually, I've never seen such a comprehensive breakdown of creativity anywhere on the Internet. [links below]

Back to rainbows...

While reading their post about Rainbows an idea started floating through my thoughts... (Muse of the in-between which is where you'll find my muse.)

Memories swished around and I suddenly remembered this old song, Over the Rainbow.

So story inspiration blossomed. (What can I say? Even the Cowardly Lion was my first 'shape shifter' ;)

That's when this line from Claire: the Lost Fae came into magical existence:

Claire's odyssey for a safe haven was no different than looking for a pot of gold at the end of a rainbow. Completely elusive.

All characters must begin somewhere... even if it's at the lowest point of the rainbow. Soon there is only one direction...UP Over the Rainbow.

There will be more plot bunny hints as the release for Claire: the Lost Fae gets closer.

External Links: The Bookshelf Muse ~ Rainbows

Thank you for stopping by. Peace & Love be with you always.

~ Aithne Jarretta

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Happy Holiday Winner: Cayce!

noreply@blogger.com (Aithne) — Thu, 15 Dec 2011 06:31:00 +0000

If you clicked through from the HOLIDAY HOP you're in the right place!

Happy Holidays! Hope your preparations are going smoothly and you're just as excited about this merry season as I am. ;D

Since you're on this page that meant you arrived from our Holiday Hop Home [here]

We have some great authors participating with a broad variety of prizes. Don't forget to join in the fun on every blog by commenting so that you will be eligible for the chance to win a Kindle Fire. (pretty cool, huh? ;D)

So comment below and leave your email (please insert spaces for your protection) because the Holiday Hop prize I offer is a Gift Card from Amazon or Barnes & Noble (your choice).

Leaving your comment and email are both necessary steps to winning so I may contact you if your name is chosen by Random.org.

Thank you for stopping by.

Before you go:

Why not check out the list of Romance Junkies Holiday themed romances: RJ Holiday Romances

UPDATE: Contest entries end at 12 am PST. The drawing will be Monday 26th at 12 Noon (EST). I will post the winner here and on Facebook. Then I will email the winner. ;)

Thank you, everyone that took the time to post. Blessings.

Thank you for stopping by. Peace & Love be with you always.

~ Aithne Jarretta

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Holiday Inspired Romances

noreply@blogger.com (Aithne) — Thu, 24 Nov 2011 12:00:00 +0000

Holiday Stories ~ Someone asked me recently why I would include this list here at my blog. Well, honestly it has a lot to do with a personal enjoyment I have over holiday inspired stories.

It just so happens that Cat from Romance Junkies sent a request to the authors at her Yahoo Group for holiday inspired stories. This is the list that came back to her.

Yes, you'll find my Kissing Santa included, but I wanted to share these wonderful authors with my Twitter friends. Who knows, perhaps you'll find a new favorite author.

This list of stories range from nice to naughty. Prices vary and there's even two for FREE.

May You have a Joyous & Peaceful Holiday Season

~ Aithne

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The Child Who Rescued Christmas by Jessica Mathews

Blurb: For nurse Sara Wittman, life with husband Cole is perfect…until they discover having a much-wanted baby just isn't happening. When Cole learns of a two-year-old son he never knew existed, they face a crash course in parenting! It could be the happiest Christmas ever, once they realize that little Brody's unexpected arrival is the answer to their dreams.…

Amazon ~ Harlequin

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Shiny Objects by Karenna Colcroft

Blurb: Elena is happy in her relationship with her live-in boyfriend Corin. But when she runs into her former lover Niko at a party, she realizes she still has feelings for him. Her attempt to form a friendship with Niko goes off-course when the two of them kiss.

When she confesses to Corin, he encourages her to not only remain friends with Niko, but to pursue a relationship with the other man. At first Niko has no objections, but the two men soon become rivals, and Elena isn't sure she can handle being shared.

Amazon ~ Passion in Print

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Caught by Cassandra Carr
(Coming Soon; Dec 13, 2011)

Blurb: When Callie returns to her hometown for the holidays she comes face to face with her old lover and Dominant Jack. She left him three years ago believing he could never be the happily-ever-after man she needed. Yet Jack still wants her and she finds herself wanting to submit to him again.

As Jack and Callie explore their Dominant/submissive relationship, Callie gets drawn deep into Jack’s world all over again. For his part, Jack can’t seem to forget how she nearly ruined him when she took off without even saying good-bye all those years ago, but he’s afraid his baser needs will destroy Callie. Can Callie give Jack another chance to prove he can be what she needs? Can Jack overcome his own fears and claim Callie forever?

Author Website: http://www.booksbycassandracarr.com/

Loose-Id

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GOLDEN CHRISTMAS by Kate Hofmann

Blurb: When Nick Jacobsen finds himself sheltering a woman whose car is stuck in a snow drift on Christmas Eve, his holiday plans change—for the better. Joy Heatherfield never dreamed she'd wind up in a blizzard, only to be given shelter and finding herself tempted by the handsomest man she has ever seen. Their mutual attraction is instant and combustible. But when Nick and Joy travel to Florida together to discuss an exhibition of his paintings, trouble is on the horizon. Will Nick be able to mend his fences with the lovely Joy? And will Joy find it in her heart to forgive his unintentional blunder?

Author Website: http://www.katehofman.com

Amazon ~ B&N

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Mistletowed by Tara Lain
(A story of Yule)

Release: December 13 from Loose Id

Blurb: Five friends, one piece of mistletoe. Christian Elliott has the perfect life -- right girlfriend, right job, right house and car. How come he’s only really happy when he’s with his best friend, Jason? Melanie Cantrell has everything she wants. Why can’t she stop cheating on her boyfriend with her yoga teacher? Buttercup Allender adores her stable life with Winston. But she can’t give up her secret desire for BDSM. Stir them all together at a holiday party with a beautiful rock god and a submissive stockbroker and what do you get? It could be love and it could be magic.

Author Webpage: http://www.loose-id.com/Our-Authors/Tara-Lain/ (Mistletowed will be listed after Dec. 13th)

Loose-Id

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Yes, Virginia, Here Comes Santa Claus by Celine Chatillon

Blurb: When Brad “The Rude Reporter” Rudner opens a letter to the editor from a lonely lady who says she doesn't believe in Santa Claus after her fiancé dumped her, he feels it's his duty revive her faith in the jolly old elf. The gift of a red garter belt and some slinky fishnet stockings help good girl Ginny get on Santa's naughty list, and Brad can't help but lose his heart to the dark, exotic beauty.

Amazon ~ eXtasy Books

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Kissing Santa by Aithne Jarretta

Blurb: Lily Johnson, estranged from family, comes home for the holidays seeking mending of old arguments. There's also the potential reunion with an old flame. The storm of the century hits the little community where Lily grew up, adding deep worry over the fate of her heart love. Christopher Crin, all-American fireman, is well known for his holiday gift giving and spirit. He even bears the nickname Cringle. Everything he comes into contact with has a magical outcome of purity and good.

Author Website: http://www.aithnejarretta.com

Amazon ~ B&N ~ Smashwords

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An Unforgettable Christmas by Trisha Wilson

Blurb: Chelsea Roberts is facing her first Christmas alone. She has her best friends, but it still isn't the same. Will an unexpected family connection bring a smile to her face again? Nick Collins is facing the challenges of being an unexpected single father to a newborn. He has a big family, but is still lonely. Can Chelsea let someone get close enough to love her through her sadness? Will Nick be able to trust someone enough to get close to himself and Jasmine? Through a lot of tears and laughter, with the help of close friends and family, take the journey with Chelsea and Nick as they experience an unforgettable Christmas.

Author Website: http://trishawilson.weebly.com/

Amazon ~ B&N

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Sold on You by Sophia Knightly
(a Christmas comedy)

Blurb: Just Say Yes! Confirmed bachelor Dr. Marcos Calderon is in hot water. He needs to come up with a faux fiancée fast or he’ll disappoint his beloved grandma who’s arriving on the next flight to meet her. Proper social worker Gabriela Morales should fit the bill—but tonight, in that sexy, slit-to-there red evening gown, she looks anything but proper. Gabriela only volunteered for the hospital’s charity bachelorette auction to benefit a cause dear to her heart. Now she’s reeling from the hot doctor’s bid of fifteen thousand dollars for a weekend date with her! She’s not sure what Dr. Handsome has in mind, but the smoldering look in his eyes is unmistakable…

Author Website: http://www.sophiaknightly.com

Amazon ~ B&N

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A Knight in Her Arms by Debra Dennis

Blurb: Dreaming of the past. Hannah Falcon loves her job cataloging medieval artifacts and setting up the displays at the Natural History Museum in New York City. What she doesn’t love is her friends insisting she date more. When a man dressed as a medieval knight shows up in the museum, Hannah mistakes him for her friend’s latest attempt at a blind date. Sent into the future: Sir Gavin of Rogueforth is a battle-hardened twelfth century knight who expects nothing more from life than to live and die by his sword. Sent through time to protect a woman named Hannah and claim her as his own, he expects a reward. He doesn’t expect a woman who refuses to be protected. Can one passionate night, ten days before Christmas, convince a twenty-first century woman to follow her heart and show a medieval knight there's more to life than being a protector?

Author Website: www.deboradennis.com

Amazon ~ B&N ~ Smashwords ~ ARe

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Captain Andrew's Flying Christmas by Heather Hiestand
(Steampunk: 16k novella)

Blurb: Housemaid Linet Fenna would rather be an air pirate than a servant. When she finds the ladder to an airship dangling outside her garret window on Christmas Eve, 1892, she ascends to the skies above London on her late father’s flagship dirigible, the Christmas. The new captain is someone she never expected to see again, a dangerous, sexy foe. Is the Fenna family nemesis offering Linet her heart’s desire or a dastardly trap?

Captain Andrew’s motivations are as foggy as the coal-soaked sky. Prime Minister Gladstone’s Blockaders, a horde of automen and a teenage girl named Hatchet want Linet to fail in her quest to discover what happened to her missing family, but she is determined to have a happy Christmas.

Author Website: http://www.HeatherHiestand.com

Amazon ~ B&N ~ Smashwords ~ ARe

* * * * * *

A Family by Christmas by Brenda Novak

Blurb: What they want for Christmas is a daddy! Jaclyn Wentworth is on her own with three little kids. She used to be married to the golden boy--former golden boy--of their small Nevada town. The marriage was a disaster because her ex-husband never grew up. And he sure wasn't much of a daddy. Now Jaclyn's living in Reno. And who, of all people, does she run into there but Cole Perrini, bad boy of Feld, Nevada. Former bad boy. He was her ex-hsuband's opposite in every way--and he still is. Because Cole's made good in every sense of the word. Will Jaclyn and her children get the husband and father they deserve? Not a Scrooge, but a Santa!

Author Website: http://www.brendanovak.com/

Amazon ~ Harlequin

* * * * * *

Underdead by Liz Jasper

Blurb: Newbie science teacher Jo Gartner thinks things are bad when she realizes the biggest excitement of her year is the staff Christmas Party. Then she gets bitten by a vampire. Sort of. And then she’s a murder suspect. Her vampire traits are growing more embarrassing by the minute, the police are at her door and the Undead are circling. If she doesn't figure out who to trust she won't be alive long enough to worry about all those papers she still has to grade.

Author Website: http://lizjasper.com/

Amazon

* * * * * *

Murder, Mayhem and Mistletoe by Samantha Storm
(New Years Eve Holiday)

Blurb: Teddy Madison thought the office Christmas party would be a total drag when she was made the designated driver. All hope of another ill advised tangle with the hot guy from the mail room was out the window. She could only watch and laugh at other’s indiscretions as the office staff succumbed to another year of sexual tension. But the party took an unexpected turn. Dark and mysterious strangers, murder and intrigue led her and her zany friends down a wild and wacky path that could make this the most epic office party yet. Can the Champaign guzzling gang figure out the mystery, or will Teddy celebrate New Year’s Eve in jail?

Author Website: http://www.samanthastorm.com/

Amazon ~ B&N ~ Smashwords

* * * * * *

Have Christmas Card...Will Travel by Susanne Marie Knight

Blurb: A magic Christmas card sends lonely Meredith back in time... then returns her to her own century each morning. A handsome lord proposes, and she accepts, but then finds herself attracted to her fiancé's honorable brother. How can Meredith find happiness when she had one foot in the past and the other in the present? (2008 EPPIE Finalist!)

Author Website: http://www.susanneknight.com

Amazon ~ Uncial Press

* * * * * *

The Millionaire's Christmas Wish by Shawna Delacorte

Blurb: When millionaire Chance Fowler first kissed the pretty stranger in his arms, he'd only meant to dodge the photographers who'd tailed him. Then she ran off--but he couldn't forget her tempting taste on his lips. So he sought out the tantalizing woman who'd ignited his long-dormant desire... Lovely Marcie Roper was the first woman to close her eyes to Chance's fortune. And though she'd captivated the jaded tycoon, Marcie yearned for what his wealth couldn't buy--a man who would say "I do" and mean it forever. Could Marcie convince Chance that love--for the right woman--would last a lifetime?

Author's Website: www.shawnadelacorte.com

Amazon ~ B&N ~ eHarlequin

* * * * * *

Santa's Big Little Helper by Celine Chatillon

Blurb: Suellen entertains a homeless man on Christmas Eve and receives a special gift from one of Santa's very special helpers ... stockings and all!

Amazon ~ Mojocastle Press

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Season for Temptation by Theresa Romain

Blurb: Two Sisters… Julia Herington is overjoyed when her stepsister, Louisa, becomes engaged—to a viscount, no less. Louisa’s only hesitation is living a life under the ton’s critical gaze. But with his wry wit and unconventional ideas, Julia feels James is perfect for Louisa. She can only hope to find a man like him for herself. Exactly like him, in fact… One Choice… As the new Viscount Matheson, James wished to marry quickly and secure his title. Kind, intelligent Louisa seemed a suitable bride… Until he met her stepsister. Julia is impetuous—and irresistible. Pledged to one sister, yet captivated by another, what is he to do? As Christmas and the whirl of the London season approach, James may be caught in a most scandalous conundrum, one that only true love, a bit of spiritous punch—and a twist of fate—will solve…

Author Website: http://theresaromain.com/

Amazon ~ B&N ~ Indiebound ~ Powell's

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The Playboy's Gift by Teresa Carpenter

Blurb: An orphan baby wasn't on playboy Rett Sullivan's Christmas list, but as the holidays approach, he finds himself drowning in a sea of bottles, nappies and toys! Skye Miller was shocked to learn her late brother and sister-in-law left their little daughter in the care of Rett, her brother's best friend…and Skye's first love. The only way to protect her heart is to help the novice daddy and baby bond, then make a graceful exit. But the sight of Rett's strong arms cradling the baby makes Skye weak at the knees.…

Amazon

* * * * * *

Dying for a Dance by Cindy Sample
(New Year's Holiday)

Blurb: It takes two to tango--but only one to murder. Lead-footed single mom, Laurel McKay, agrees to learn a foxtrot routine for her best friend's New Year’s Eve wedding. After she trips her instructor, crashes into a pair of dancers and breaks the heel of her new shoes, she thinks her evening can't possibly get any worse. Then she stumbles over another dancer. A dead one. With her broken shoe heel stuffed in his mouth. The action moves from the California Gold Country to Lake Tahoe as Laurel searches for the killer amid the sequins and flying feathers of a ballroom competition. Can she samba her way into the heart of the handsome detective who has once again entered her life? Or will dancing and detecting prove to be a lethal combination? One, two, three, four. Too many suspects on this dance floor. Five, six, seven, eight. Find the murderer before it's too late.

Amazon

* * * * * *

Christmas in Bayeux by Stephanie Burkhart

Blurb: The ravages of war have taken their toll on Aiden. Seeking peace, he has traveled to Bayeux, France, on a pilgrimage of sorts. Noel, a former exchange student who spent time with his family years before, provides him a place to stay at the old manor she has turned into an inn. The attraction they felt nine years before at the tender age of sixteen flares to life as they spend time together and prepare the inn for Christmas. But there has been so much loss and grief for Aiden. Will Noel be able to help him feel again and can Aiden find what he is searching for?

Author Website: http://www.stephanieburkhart.com

Amazon

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2011 Christmas Collection: Sensual/Spicy
Cheryl Pierson, Kit Pirate, Sarah McNeal,
Stephanie Burkhart, Christine E. Schulze

Meant to Be by Cheryl Pierson (Sensual)

Blurb: Robin Mallory is facing another Christmas all alone when she decides to surprise her aunt and uncle several hours away. She becomes stranded near a desolate section of interstate. With a snowstorm on the way, Robin has no choice but to walk, looking for a house to provide shelter. Jake Devlin is shocked when the "spy" he jumps turns out to be a girl. She's dressed oddly, and talks like a Yank. Where did she come from, and what is he going to do with her?

The Homecoming by Kit Prate (Mildly Sensual)

Blurb: Rory Saunders has experienced a crushing divorce. After sixteen years of marriage, her life is in disarray. She knew she was running away when she left the city behind her; running to what she hopes will be a new beginning. Moving to a new house, a place in the country, she seeks to recapture the happiness of her childhood, and perhaps some of her childhood dreams. The last thing she wants or expects is another broken heart. She is through with that part of her life; through with secrets, disappointment, and painful deception. Then Devlin Culhane strolls into her life. He reminds her of the handsome loners who decorate the covers of the western romances she reads for pleasure; tall, tanned and blond, ever the hero. But even a hero can have secrets…

Gifts from the Afterlife by Sarah J. McNeal (Mildly Sensual)

Blurb: Lydia Sinclair's life has run off the rails. She has lost everyone she loves and Christmas has lost its meaning. As Christmas approaches, Lydia wants to go to sleep and never wake up again. Perhaps an angel, some ghosts, and a childhood sweetheart can convince her that life is worth living again. Can Lydia let go of what once was, renew her joy in Christmas, and find the promise of hope for her future?

For He So Loved by Christine E. Schulze (Sensual)

Blurb: On Christmas Eve, she gave him her most precious gift. Though he would not know this for some time, her gift was as when God Himself bestowed His most precious gift upon the world. What he did know from the start was that she was his angel, and, as would be revealed to him alongside the secret of her gift, his savior. He was as ignorant of this as the world was of Christ's coming; yet, this made it no less real, no less poignant. No less precious...

Feast of Candles by Stephanie Burkhart (Spicy)

Blurb: Drake de Brettville is going to take the biggest risk of his life – because of a bottle of wine. When Drake's brother returns to their home in Denmark with a bottle of wine from the Marquand Winery, Drake finds himself compelled to discover who the wine maker is. Intrigued to learn that the owner is a young woman named Lily Marquand, Drake travels to Napa Valley, California, to meet her. When Drake finds Lily, the sparks fly. Lily is that rare woman who stimulates him like no other, but to win her love, Drake has to shatter the battlements that guard her heart and prove to her Christmas wishes do come true.

Amazon ~ B&N ~ Lulu ~ Smashwords

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A Naughty Christmas Carol by Jina Bacarr
(erotic romance novella 30k)

Blurb: What if Scrooge worked on Wall Street and used a smart phone instead of a quill pen? And what if his faithful clerk, Mr. Cratchit, was a gorgeous blond secretary? This modern day Scrooge also has a beautiful fiancée and frequents a gentleman’s club in New York City’s financial district.

My, how Scrooge has changed: he has a bad boy persona, makes love to more than one woman and lusts after a sexy ghost. His name is Nick Radnor and he’s a Wall Street trader with no heart. Money is his mistress. Nick learns where his life is headed because of his corporate greed when three sexy female ghosts try to save his soul on this naughty Christmas Eve.

Author Website: http://www.JinaBacarr.com

Amazon ~ Smashwords

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Christmas Redemption by Paty Jager
(Historical western romance)

Blurb: Van Donovan returns to Pleasant Valley, Oregon where twelve years earlier as a boy of fifteen he left in handcuffs after standing guard for a bank robbery. He's learned a trade and excelled at it and is ready to prove to his father and the town he can amount to something. Upon his return he learns the fate of the daughter of an innocent man who died in the robbery crossfire. To make amends he takes her out of the saloon and gives her a job, not realizing she'd been squatting in the very building he'd purchased for his business. Can two battered hearts find solace or will the past continue to haunt their lives?

Author's Website: http://www.patyjager.net

Amazon ~ B&N ~ Ibook ~ Smashwords

Free at: Smashwords , Nook, and Apple Ibook and Kindle

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Christmas in High Heels by Gemma Halliday
(a High Heels Mysteries short story)

Blurb: Fashion designer turned amateur sleuth Maddie Springer can't wait to spend the holidays with her boyfriend, LAPD Detective Jack Ramirez.

It's their first Christmas together, and Maddie wants it to be perfect. But between her zany family and wacky friends, Maddie's having a hard time finding alone time with her man. Come Christmas morning, this is one holiday she'll be sure to remember - naughty or nice!

Author Website: www.gemmahalliday.com

Amazon ~ B&N

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Can't Help Falling In Love by Bella Andre

Gabe & Megan ~ The Sullivans #3

Blurb: He ran into a burning building to save a mother and daughter...and ended up falling in love. Gabe Sullivan risks his life every day as a firefighter in San Francisco. But after learning a brutal lesson about professional boundaries, he knows better than to risk his heart to one of his fire victims ever again. After Gabe saves Megan Harris and her seven-year-old daughter from a deadly apartment fire, Megan knows she owes the heroic firefighter everything. Everything except her heart. Because after losing her navy pilot husband five years ago, she has vowed to never suffer through loving - and losing - a man with a dangerous job again. Only, when Megan and Gabe meet again and uncontrollable flames of desire ignite between them, how can he possibly ignore her courage, determination, and beauty? And how can she deny not only his strong bond with her daughter...but the way his sweetly sensual kisses are challenging her to risk everything she's been guarding for so long? This winter, if one - or both - of them aren't careful, they just might end up falling in love.

Author Website: http://www.BellaAndre.com

B&N

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A Vampire for Christmas Anthology
by Laurie London, Michele Hauf, Caridad Pineiro, Alexis Morgan

Blurb: All they want for Christmas is you… It's the time of year for twinkling lights on trees and kisses under the mistletoe. Yet the passing of another year means nothing to the stunning immortals who lurk in the shadows of the new-fallen snow. And they don't care if you've been naughty or nice.

Let four fanged lovers open your eyes to a passion you never dared to imagine. After all, there's no place like home for the holidays—and these dazzling vampires can't wait for an invitation.

Amazon ~ B&N ~ Indiebound

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Christmas Memories by Matthew Lang

Available December 16th

Author Website: www.matthew-lang.com

MLR

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All I Want for Christmas Anthology by Liliana Hart

Naughty or Nice by Liliana Hart

Blurb: A blizzard leaves Kate Carson stranded in Chicago on Christmas Eve. When she finds she’s without a place to stay for the night, billionaire Derek Worth tempts her with an offer she can’t refuse, and she finds out it’s a lot easier to stay warm being naughty instead of nice.

A MacKenzie Christmas by Liliana Hart
(A MacKenzie Series Novella)

Blurb: Grant MacKenzie is ready to settle down and start a family. The only problem is the one woman he’s interested in doesn’t seem to be ready for the long haul. But fate lends Grant a helping hand in getting exactly what he wants under his Christmas tree.

Amazon ~ B&N

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Tomorrow's Gifts by Lisabet Sarai
(M/M BDSM paranormal)

Blurb: /The ghost of Christmas Future.../ Michael loves his burly, powerful partner Neil, but he's too embarrassed to share his secret fantasies of submission and surrender. Frustrated and confused, he wonders whether he and Neil really belong together. Then, on Christmas Eve, Michael receives a visit from a sexy Dom, Thorne Wilder, who claims to be his lover from the future. Thorne shows Michael scenes from a wild life of sexual excess that he claims they'll share if he breaks up with Neil. Should Michael trust the ghost of Christmas future, or does his true future lie with Neil?

Author Website: http://www.lisabetsarai.com

e-Bound

* * * * * *

Necessary Madness by Lisabet Sarai
(M/M paranormal: Christmas, ends with a wedding on Christmas eve)

Blurb: /Both power and love can lead to madness./ Nineteen year old Kyle sees visions of disasters, visions that tear his world apart. Everyone assumes that he is schizophrenic, but Rob, the cop who picks him up off the street, knows better. Rob's own experience has taught him that psychic powers are real, and potentially devastating. Since his telepathic sister's brutal murder, Rob wants nothing to do with "gifted" individuals like Kyle. Yet he can't deny his attraction to the beautiful, tortured young man -- an attraction that appears to be mutual. When a brilliant, sadistic practitioner of the black arts lures Kyle into his clutches, Rob faces the possibility that once again he may lose the person he loves most to the forces of darkness.

Author Website: http://www.lisabetsarai.com

eBound

* * * * * *

Almost Home by Lisabet Sarai
(M/M/F holiday menage Christmas - lots of snow!!)

Blurb: /Home is a state of heart./ Suzanne and Gino have history going back to high school, but for years Suzanne has been three thousand miles away, preoccupied with her challenging career. A mistletoe kiss at a holiday party reminds her of their old bond and proves that some things get better with age. When Gino rescues her from a New England blizzard, though, she discovers that she's not the only love in his life. Gino shares his bed and his colonial-era farm house with taciturn painter Harris Steele. Snowed in, without electricity or running water, the three explore the many shapes a triangle can assume. Although she's far away from her everyday existence, Suzanne realizes that she's almost home.

e-Bound

http://www.total-e-bound.com/product.asp?P_ID=1018

ALSO: FREE Christmas story, called "Easy"

http://www.lisabetsarai.com/easy.html

* * * * * *

Thank you for stopping by. Peace & Love be with you always.

~ Aithne Jarretta

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Experience Planet Earth

noreply@blogger.com (Aithne) — Sat, 19 Nov 2011 20:54:00 +0000

When you experience Planet Earth, the positive vibration of your energy will emanate out like a stone thrown into water, touching our planet and every living thing on it. As you rise higher, you take the world with you.

The magnificent music was composed and graciously gifted for this clip by composer Jo Blankenburg.

From The Secret to you, here is Planet Earth - our home.

Share with your friends and family by sending them this link:

http://thesecret.tv/planet-earth/

Claire: the Lost Fae

noreply@blogger.com (Aithne) — Thu, 17 Nov 2011 18:00:00 +0000

Claire: the Lost Fae is coming to an e-reader near you. This story whispered behind me for many months before I actually started writing it. I knew in the back of my mind that Claire would eventually seek the window of expression. However, even I didn't realize the potent magic that she would reveal.

If you're wondering exactly who Claire is and why she seems like an old friend to this author... that's because she is Shayla's mother. In CONCENTRIC CIRCLES, Readers get a brief glimpse of Claire and her enigmatic personality. She raised Shayla with a fierce determination to hide and protect her from the magical world. That wasn't easy (a magical child disciplined to hide? not that she ever blew-up an aunt or anything...)

When you read Shayla's story it is not fully explained why Claire reacted to raising a child with such strict rules. Only bits and pieces are revealed. That's why CLAIRE: the LOST FAE is the next logical step to revealing their legacy.

Here is a preview of magical worlds to come:

Excerpt: What would you do if you didn't like the guy that just rescued you from vicious hounds?

They landed on a hillside dotted with old headstones. Claire shoved away from her rescuer. "Who the hell are you? Didn't you hear me? That creep can smell magic! He'll follow us!"

"No. He can't follow. Besides that old blanket will confuse the scent."

"Dammit! Who are you? And that old blanket and the clothes on my body are all I own."

"Name's Leeson. We'll get you a new blanket."

She growled. "Well Leeson," she said, fisting her fingers. "We need to get out of here."

"We're safe for now."

Exasperation spread from her belly upward. The resulting heat made her head feel on the verge of explosion. "Are you dim witted?"

He peeled the mask off revealing high cheekbones and mussed dark cinnamon hair. With a twist he shoved the mask into a pocket of the long coat. "The hound can't track us here."

She hissed through her teeth. "Fine! I don't believe you. You can stay. I'm going!"

He grabbed her arm. "No."

"Let me go you bastard!" Sister Teresa would have scolded her for swearing, but that guidance was no longer a part of her life. She wiggled and pulled. She could magic herself free but that would have called Grismere the hound to them.

Thank you for stopping by. Peace & Love be with you always.

~ Aithne Jarretta

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#FridayFlash ~ THE MATCH MAKER

noreply@blogger.com (Aithne) — Fri, 04 Nov 2011 10:30:00 +0000

THE MATCH MAKER is a story I wrote for a featured spot over at The Long & Short Reviews Blog. They have a monthly 1000 word challenge and The Match Maker won 2nd place. It's also one of my favorite book covers which I designed myself.
Teaser:
What do you think will happen with The Match Maker in the room?
Fiona Duranta, owner of Precious Memories antique shop, will soon discover the match maker’s intention. Alex Vaughn thinks he is in the antique shop to retrieve his great-grandmother’s portrait. Don’t forget—The Match Maker is there.

* * * * * *

Fiona gripped the edges of the antique portrait, heart racing with painful intensity. Owner of Precious Mementos, a sea-side antique shop, she had seen many odd and interesting objects in her line of work. “Who are you?” she asked the young woman looking at her with a face similar to her own.

“Great-grandma Margie,” a masculine voice answered.

She fumbled the portrait and turned. Jeez! This guy is hotter than Brad Pitt! She couldn’t breathe.

He stood on the other side of her counter. “Actually, she’s the reason I’m here. Her portrait wasn’t supposed to be included—” He stopped speaking and stared.

Fiona gulped.

“I was hoping I could get her back? Aunt Nancy put her into the ‘sell’ group because of an old family grudge.”

“You’re Mr. Vaughn?”

“Yes. Alexander Vaughn. Is it too late?” He glanced at the counter where great-grandma rested. “You haven’t sold her yet, have you?”

“No. In fact, she hasn’t been processed through my system. I was just…umm…”

“Is there something wrong?”

“You don’t see it?” Fiona asked and pushed aside the idea she was totally invisible to this sexy hunk.

Brows puckered into a frown, he shook his head.

“Humph!” She raised her hands, pulled long curls up and gave them a twist. Annoyance peaking, Fiona tilted her chin, turned to the light and pointed to her face. “What about now?”

He studied her closely. “Well isn’t that interesting? Are you a long lost cousin?”

“Absolutely not.”

“Do you believe in reincarnation?”

“Never did before. I have to admit; now I’m curious.”

Alexander stepped closer. “So does this mean you’ve become attached to my great-grandma and I’ll have to buy her back from you? For a profit, of course.”

“That won’t be necessary,” Fiona answered, gaze dropping to the portrait. She didn’t know why, but her heartstrings tugged when she met deep-set blue eyes. “It is your portrait. I haven’t given the estate a check yet because everything hasn’t been appraised and catalogued.”

“Wonderful.” He looked relieved and reached for the gold hilt frame.

She pulled the portrait toward her. “Tell me why.” The look on his face made her laugh. Slightly embarrassed by her sudden amusement at his surprise, she changed tactics. “Is there a hidden treasure map behind her?” she asked, caressing the broad antique frame. “Or maybe the frame is hollow and holds a fortune in loose diamonds?”

Realization dawned across handsome features. “Diamonds?” he asked, teasing. “Fascinating idea. Perhaps I’ll have her x-rayed when I get her home.”

“X-rayed? You’re avoiding my question, Mr. Vaughn.”

“The one about a treasure map?”

The bell jangled over the door. “Fiona—”

Fiona suddenly realized there had been no tinkling warning when he arrived.

“Oh my, who do we have here?” Star, her best friend, eyed him and moved closer with slinky sexiness. “Hey doll, can I buy you?”

“I’m sorry, Mr. Vaughn. Star’s recently divorced and thinks all men are toys.”

“Well, aren’t they?”

“That’s quite all right, been there before and I’m sure it won’t be the last time. In fact, if you’re really interested, I’m one of the bachelors in an auction on Friday the thirteenth. Proceeds go to breast cancer research.”

“An angel and delectable,” Star said.

“Star!” Being in the same room with her friend often made her feel horribly invisible. “Please wait in the backroom. We have much to do. Open house is Sunday and we’re swamped with this new estate acquisition.”

Star pouted, but moved toward the door behind the counter. “Later, doll. I’ll try to make the auction.”

Fiona waved her away. “Please forgive her, Mr. Vaughn. Ever since her divorce I swear she’s a bit insane.”

“Alex. And you’re wrong, you know.”

“Excuse me?” she asked, looking him in the eye.

“Please call me Alex.”

Heat rushed up her neck and across her cheeks. “All right,” she answered, picking up the portrait. “Alex, are you going to answer my question?”

“Only when you admit you’re wrong.”

“About what?”

He nodded toward the door. “You don’t disappear when your friend Star walks into the room. In fact, she doesn’t hold a candle to you.”

She clutched the portrait to her chest, wishing she could hide behind it. Denial when faced with this new acquaintance mounted. “That’s absurd.”

“So we’re at an impasse. You won’t admit you’re beautiful and sexy and I won’t divulge the portrait’s secret. What’s next? A romantic dinner for two? Saturday night? Seven-thirty?” He placed his hands on the glass countertop and leaned forward, holding her gaze in a tight embrace.

“You think I’m beautiful?”

“Yes.”

“Asking me for a date isn’t a joke?”

“No. Are we on?”

The portrait, still clutched to her chest, warmed under her touch. The heat spread into her heart. Fiona was positive she stood above the floor on cloud nine. “What’s the secret?”

“Is it a date?”

“Yes.”

“Are you invisible?”

Could she hold the portrait any tighter? Moments of silent anticipation spread between them. “No,” she said, allowing the small word to escape her lips on a soft breath. “Will you tell me the secret?”

He leaned in, nearly close enough for a quick kiss. “Great-grandma Margie was a gifted clairvoyant. She lived to be one hundred. Before she died, she told me that her portrait would show me my heart. I was six—thought she was just telling me a story.”

Fiona lessoned her hold on the portrait and placed it on the counter. “Oh… that explains the strange connection I feel, but—”

“We should at least give it a chance.”

“I agree.”

“So Saturday? I’ll pick you up at seven-thirty.”

“I’ll be here,” she said handing him great-grandma Margie.

“See you then.” He turned, strode to the exit where he paused, and looked back. “I can hardly wait.”

Fiona stared, speechless.

Great-grandma Margie, held under Alex’s arm, gave her an ear wide smile—one that had not been there before.

“Fiona?”

Heart racing, she answered, “Me, either.”

* * * * * *

Thank you for stopping by. Peace & Love be with you always.
~ Aithne Jarretta
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Murmuration: One of Mother Nature's Phenomenal Wonders

noreply@blogger.com (Aithne) — Thu, 03 Nov 2011 21:00:00 +0000

One of the reasons I love Twitter is frequently I get a chance to see things I wouldn't normally see in my little world here in Florida. Yes, we have awesome flora, fauna and watery shores, but the internet allows us to visit places we only dreamed about in the past.
On Twitter we don't just see the posts of our own friends. Tidbits can be retweeted by anyone and thus go viral. That's actually how I've found some of the cool posts around the world that entices me back to Twitter every day.
For this post I'd like to share one such retweet. It's called Murmuration and will carry you on flights of fantasy if you follow the dance. Sophie Windsor Clive, videographer, shares a chance encounter and shared moment with one of nature's greatest and most fleeting phenomena.
Enjoy. It's purely magical.

Murmuration from Sophie Windsor Clive

on Vimeo.

Visit Sophie's Vimeo Page at the link above. ;)

Thank you for stopping by. Peace & Love be with you always.
~ Aithne Jarretta
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CONCENTRIC CIRCLES, Paranormal, Naughty & Nice

noreply@blogger.com (Aithne) — Thu, 03 Nov 2011 18:56:00 +0000

Writing Paranormal is so much fun!

Here’s my goal. Have you ever seen that Harry Potter scene when Harry gets sucked into Tom Riddle’s diary? (pretty cool, ugh?)

Well, that’s what I want to do. Reach out of the pages, grab you and pull you in. Why?

Because the world within the covers of CONCENTRIC CIRCLES moves fast, has awesome magic and heated sexy scenes.So here on this side of my computer screen I can visualize YOU reading this blog and looking for just the right tidbit to tantalize and pull you in.

Be careful! You’ll soon discover that even the simplest words can carry magical meaning.

Simple Magic + Naughty + Nice = Escape into Adventurous Romance. (what more does a Romance Reader want?)

But first … What’s Simple Magic?

We are talking Paranormal. Simple Magic is the ease with which magic occurs—even when the practitioner doesn’t expect a magical outcome.

Pssst … tell me …

Have you opened any doors today? Or closed one? Yes?

Whew! Glad to see you made it safely to your computer. ;o)

Little hint… some people didn’t make it to their destination. You are very lucky.

Now, that you are here let’s add in the next element of the romance equation—Naughty.

We all crave it. That’s just a part of our urge to escape into Romance Novels. So when you bend those pages back for the first time (isn’t that a wonderful sensation?) you look for a story with strong characters, passionate life purpose, the character’s will to get through all obstacles and sensually wonderful coupling.

Oh yeah!

It’s in there.

But hey, what about the element of Nice.

No, I didn’t forget that. ;o) Ah… a romantic hero…

Hey wait! That isn’t a handsome, sexy or romantic guy!

Hehehehe…

No. But it’s a dang good place to take your new love for…
Whatever happens next.

So with all the elements of a good story what do we have? Escapism. Yowza!

We all need that portal of escapism at our deepest level. That’s why we read each new book we’ve discovered with ravenous hunger.

Review:
Concentric Circles is the kind of story that leaves you breathless and lingers in your thoughts long after the last page is turned. Characters and settings so richly detailed, that the words weave a magical tapestry of adventure. Ms. Jarretta has penned a tale of epic proportions.
KyAnn Waters ~ Author

Thank you for stopping by. Peace & Love be with you always.
~ Aithne Jarretta
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CONCENTRIC CIRCLES: Spell, Book & Blade

noreply@blogger.com (Aithne) — Wed, 29 Jun 2011 08:08:00 +0000

There are boundless elements that may be written into paranormal romance. That’s because the human imagination can carry you into unchartered worlds.

I am Aithne Jarretta. Thank you, Kayelle for hosting me on your blog. Today I’d love to share my world of CONCENTRIC CIRCLES with Readers. This story takes place in modern day Glastonbury, England. A place known for its magical atmosphere.

Why?

‘Tis Avalon.

Since time immemorial people have traveled to this sacred place. Shrouded within lowland mists, religious and spiritual cultures have flourished, ebbed and blended.

What if the sacredness of this wonderful place needed protecting from the evils of the world?

Enter the Chilkwell family and their legacy of guardianship.

Since CONCENTRIC CIRCLES is paranormal the three basic magical elements I’ve chosen to share (along with a sexy excerpt) are spell, book and blade.

Spells are fun and can be very challenging. Their basic intention can make or break a magical world. Good or wicked, they are the drama that can carry the heroine and hero into adventure.

Books? Oh my. The avenue of magical possibilities with books is staggering. Since reading has been a life long passion, books often make an appearance in my stories. Sometimes it’s a brief appearance. Other times it’s more potent and long lasting. My favorite book in CONCENTRIC CIRCLES?

‘The Shadow Seeker’s Guide to Esoteric Potions.’ Imagine that one…

The last magical element I’m going to share with you is the blade. I love the folk legends and modern-day tales of Avalon and its legendary sword.

This is not the blade in my story of adventure, love and danger. No. few people know of this secret weapon. Those who have read and reviewed CC are aware of him. He is ageless, magical and powerful. Exposed in his full measure he is 5”—though not diminutive. Not by a long shot.
He is a Highlander’s sgian dhu.

Protector and warrior of the highest caliber, CIARANLEXISS has been known to speak up when his wielder least expects. CC’s heroine, Shayla Brinawell must come to terms with hearing him speak. (Insanity?) However, his magical guidance has seen many guardians through the challenge of battle.

Don’t be mistaken. These three elements of paranormal are just the beginning of this sexy story.

Read the first part of Concentric Circles @Amazon here.

~ Aithne Jarretta

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CONCENTRIC CIRCLES: Reader's Review

noreply@blogger.com (Aithne) — Wed, 29 Jun 2011 07:41:00 +0000

In everyday life we meet new people. Some stay for years and become members of our family. Some pass through each day quickly and are never seen again.

As an author I have a story to tell yet I tend to be shy of my writing so I don’t over promote. But I confess that seeing a Reader with her face tucked into the pages of my book makes this humble author walk on cloud nine. (or at the very least journey blissfully through the 'mists of Avalon'.)

Then there’s these six awesome words…

“Amanda cannot put your book down!”

Funny, those words came through the cell phone mixed with surprise and masculine laughter.

I confess… I’m surprised, too. But I’m also eternally grateful when a Reader enjoys my story.

“Thanks Amanda. You’ve made my day into a magickal one.”

~ Aithne

Where in the Universe is Aithne Jarretta?

noreply@blogger.com (Aithne) — Wed, 29 Jun 2011 07:34:00 +0000

Where in the Universe is Aithne Jarretta?

Not in Cyber-space for awhile. I've been offline and missed it so much!

Today I am back and celebrating with a guest blog post over at Romance Lives Forever.

http://romancelivesforever.blogspot.com/

Owner Kayelle has often been a big help for me in the author promo process. She is an exceptional author and also owns several romance yahoo groups.

So imagine my surprise when she loved the excerpt that I posted on her blog. High praise from an expert--I am in GRADITUDE Mode. ;o)

Thank you Kayelle.

~ Aithne

;o) Ever wonder... where is Glastonbury?

IWOFA Contest Winner!

noreply@blogger.com (Aithne) — Tue, 13 Oct 2009 15:22:00 +0000

There were two contest winners in this adventure. The IWOFA group grand prize winner wa K. Sutton. Congratulations!

My individual winner was drawn from the box by my son JP. (no he isn't the prize ;o)

C. Coyle wins a gift certificate.

I want to extend a thank you to all of my contest entrants. Bless you.

~ Aithne

~ Aithne

October Contest

noreply@blogger.com (Aithne) — Thu, 01 Oct 2009 21:19:00 +0000

It’s time for some more fun! I’m teaming up with another group of authors. Kate Hill has created a Halloween page and we are working together.

Her contest page [here]

You will find a list of authors, contest questions and prizes.

Go for it!

Here’s my question…

From CONCENTRIC CIRCLES [4] The Gaderian; Spectrum of Shadows

Shayla has gone to a All Hallows Eve gathering with several other women present.

What does Shayla have hidden in her boot?

Excerpt:

Gail asked for blessings five more times before she came to Shayla.

“Blessed Mother, Shayla is new amongst us. Please guide her in her rightful destiny. Blessed Be. Amen.”

Nine women, said in unison, “Blessed be.”

With slow deliberate movements, everyone began dancing around the circle.

Shayla was filled with elation and a feeling of warmth as she joined in and their pace picked up. Some of the women began clapping.

The soft tha-thum of a drum vibrated through the garden. After several minutes, everyone shouted in ecstasy and sat in a circle, breathing rapidly from the excitement.

“Ladies.”

They silenced. The sound of falling water and flickering flames blanketed them.

Gail passed a glance around the circle. “As you all know, October is the time when the veils between the two worlds are at their thinnest. Each of you has brought something that is of familial importance. We come here tonight because the Wells have long been associated with bringing women together with their ancestors. When we honor them, we become much closer to who they were.”

Everyone pulled her artifact out.

Shayla fingered her locket, the gold filigree in her fingers invoked sudden uncharacteristic shyness. She tried to swallow the sensation and focused on the stone pathway beneath her. She had this small token, but she knew nothing of her family. Her mother’s face flashed through her mind. “This is all we have,” her mom said. She shivered at the boundless mystery of her past.

“Shayla, would you like to begin?”

The heat of a blush rose from her neck. The taste of her lip, memory of Meekal’s kiss upon it, calmed her slightly. She pulled the chain over her head. “I’ve been told this belonged to my grandmother. My grandparents died in an automobile accident when my mom was five. She grew up in a convent. This is the only thing I have of them.” Much to Shayla’s surprise, previously unshed tears fell.

Gail took the locket in her fingers. She studied it, and then whispered, “This is very beautiful. You are lucky to have such a treasure. There’s something else though, isn’t there, Shayla?”

A flash of energy went through her, rocketed forth by denial. “No!”

Gail’s eyes glistened, golden in the torch light. “Your boot, Shayla.”

She jumped, feeling the painful wideness of her eyes. While looking at Gail, she reached into her boot and pulled the black adamant handled sgian dhu out for all to see. “I bought this last month at a Celtic store in Cleveland. It has nothing to do with family or ancestors.” The small knife rested comfortably in her palm, filling her with a sense of comfort, the same as when she found it.

“Fascinating,” Gail said, yet not taking the small knife. “It’s an antique. Didn’t the shopkeeper tell you that?”

The adamant handle, looking brand new, hummed through her skin. “No.”

She experienced a slight sense of discomfort and protectiveness when Gail leaned forward and studied it closely without taking it.

“I don’t touch it, Shayla, because it’s your sacred artifact. In fact, if I recall its symbolic carvings correctly, it’s of the House of Asp. Its presence blesses and will guard you always.” Gail handed her locket back and turned to the next woman.

The rest of the Gaderian went by in a haze, Shayla’s mind preoccupied with the idea of buying a knife in Cleveland, Ohio that would bring her here tonight. Just another hint from the White Lady? Thoughts spun on a spiral of mystery as her fingers moved over the cool handle in her palm, pulling her mind back to the sleepy little shop, Circle’s Threshold into Ancient Journeys.

The glass case shimmered before her vision. There it was, lying on blood-red velvet. The sensual idea of having such a treasure pulled her like a persistent beacon toward home. “How much?” she asked, passing a hand over the glass case with longing. Connell, the man behind the counter, winked and passed the knife’s alluring power to her.

Everything after that blurred into memory’s oblivion.

* * * * * *

Aithne Jarretta

Read CONCENTRIC CIRCLES excerpt
Indulge in the Magic! ~ BUY Today