Tears of Crimson

10 Nights Past - The End of the Saga

2013-05-19T13:17:00.001-05:00

I'm still getting emails, facebook messages, and twitter DM's about the ending for the 10 Nights Saga. I would like to bring an end to this and hopefully all readers of the series (which I thank from the bottom of my heart) understand that I can't release this book. I won't rehash the drama that stole this book from my hands, but I will say that Karma has a way of getting revenge. So while I can't sell the book, I can give you the overview of how it was supposed to end.

Rhett, Leah, and Alex and their sexy story will live on forever in my heart and I think we all know who the real author of this book was by now. So without any further drama, let's discuss the ending of 10 Nights.

10 Nights Past begins with Alex taking Leah, Janie and David to the pony ranch. Leah has visited before, but never as an active participant. She's agreed to give Alex a weekend to see if this lifestyle is something she could be a part of. She discovers during the course of that weekend that the life of a pony slave is more in-depth than anything she's ever experienced with Rhett before, and it terrifies her. While at the Ranch, Leah is exposed to the 24/7 lifestyle of a pony girl. Meaning that she isn't allowed to speak, all her physical needs are taken care of, and she is basically a glorified pet to be used how Alex chooses.

At the end of the weekend she is beyond overwhelmed at the situations he's exposed her to. She discovered that while he could be a very loving dominant, his need to control goes far above what even Rhett had asked from her as a submissive. She asks for some time away from him to try and come to grips with the new knowledge. While she's taking her Alex hiatus, Rhett calls and they begin talking about what went wrong in their relationship.

Leah finally understands that everything has been happening in her life too quickly. She continues to work for Alex but their relationship continues on the platonic level. Rhett continues to update her on his therapy situation, and they really begin communicating long distance. Leah is climbing the corporate ladder at work and focuses all her attention there leaving all elements of the BDSM lifestyle on hold for six months.

When Rhett returns he asks her to have dinner with him as a friend. She notices huge changes in his personality, and he discerns that she's growing as a woman as well. She admits that she never stopped loving him but also lets him know that they moved to fast before. They agree to remain friends, and eventually they become lovers again.

Rhett knows he made mistakes with Leah in the past. The six months of counseling have taught him much about the inner demons that drove him to react the way he did. they begin to rebuild their relationship the way they should have started in the beginning. Alex and Rhett are able to put their differences aside after many long talks, and thanks to Leah they can all communicate again. Janie even begins to accept the relationship between Leah and Rhett.

So Rhett and Leah get their HEA, with a little Alex thrown in. Yes Alex did enjoy times with both Leah and Rhett together.

I know this isn't as good as the book would have been, but I hope it at least gives closure to those people who were upset about not being able to read the last book. I will do a lot for my friends and readers, but selling out on what I believe is right is something I couldn't do. I hate that I couldn't bring you the last book, but allowing someone to bully by attempting to discredit your name was something I couldn't condone. So the book series dies, but I can sleep at night knowing who wrote those stories and feeling in my heart I did the right thing.

Andrea R. Cooper Presents The Garnet Dagger

2013-05-17T06:40:00.000-05:00

Everyone knows what happens when a vampire bites a human...but what if the victim is Elvin?

The Garnet Dagger by: Andrea R. Cooper

Purchase: Nook Amazon

Include on your Goodreads TBR List

Blurb:

Everyone knows what happens when a vampire bites a human...but what if the victim is Elvin?

In The Garnet Dagger, Brock is cursed from a vampyre bite that forces him to feed on the life-essence of others, he is unable to touch another without taking their life. Chained by prophesy he must find a witch, pierce her heart and draw her blood for his cure.

Celeste, a witch, must escape the monks who have held her prisoner for years. Her captors have kept her magic dormant. An ancient powerful Warloc craves her powers. If he succeeds in devouring her magic, she and Brock's people will die.

When Brock falls in love with her before realizing her demise is his cure, will love triumph over his desire to be healed? Will he risk everything to save her from a Warloc, an oath breaker, who also wants her dead?

About the Author Andrea R. Cooper

Growing up in Houston, Texas, Andrea has always enjoyed creating characters and stories. But it wasn't until she was in her late twenties that she started writing novels.

What happened that ignited the writing flame in her fingers? Divorced, and disillusioned by love songs and stories. They exaggerate. She thought. Love and Romance are not like that in the real world. Then she met her husband and realized, yes love and romance are exactly like the songs and stories say.

She is now a happy wife, and a mom to three kids (two boys and a girl).

Andrea writes paranormal and historical romance. When not writing or reading, one may find Andrea dancing in Zumba.

She believes in the power of change and counting each moment as a blessing. But most importantly, she believes in love.

The Garnet Dagger is her debut novel and is a paranormal romance with Crimson Romance.

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Thank You For Your Support!

2013-05-16T07:20:00.000-05:00

Sending out Crimson Love for the Romance Book Club Debut

We just wanted to send out some Crimson Love for everyone that helped yesterday with the Romance Book Club Debut. It was so much fun watching the new release climb the Amazon charts yesterday, and we know it's all because of great friend's like you! Currently Romance Book Club has the following rankings on Amazon:

#13 in Books > Literature & Fiction > Drama > United States

#15 in Kindle Store > Kindle eBooks > Literature & Fiction > Drama > United States

#91 in Kindle Store > Kindle eBooks > Literature & Fiction > Genre Fiction > Romance > New Adult & College

There were so many bloggers and facebook friend's that were kind enough to share the word, and we want to offer our heartfelt thanks to each and every one of them! Please take the time to visit these sites, and find out more about the incredible work they do! Their links can all be found on the RBC Tour Schedule Post. A huge thank you to Pump up your Book Tours who did a fantastic job bringing so many tour hosts together on such a limited time frame! A special shout-out to Brandy at Romance Book Worm for the support!

Months of planning go on behind the scenes before debuting a new book, and to pull it off smoothly only happens when you have a great support staff behind you. To everyone working with us at Tears of Crimson, thank you from the bottom of our hearts! Some incredible folks that need to be mentioned are Bev Kat Rosenbaum from BKR Editing, Rachel Mizer at Shoutline Designs, Jimmy Thomas from Romance Novel Covers, and Book Design Templates. Putting out a great book is much easier when you work with incredible people who know how to present a book!

As always, to the Friends of Crimson reader's we feel honored that you continue to support the work we do here! Thank you for believing in what we do, and giving us the chance to bring our world to your hands. There are so many new projects in the work, and we can't wait to share them with you!

The winner's of the giveaway have been notified, and we hope you enjoy the small gifts! Please feel free to drop in and let us know what you thought about the release. We love hearing from you! As always, we are here to help you fulfill your dreams, so if we can support your work, just let us know!

Winner of the $50 Amazon Gift Card: ED Thompson

Winner of the Paperback: L. Seiberling

Winner of eBooks: P. Crews, M. Carnes, and A. Brown

Romance Book Club - The Secret is Revealed

2013-05-15T06:43:00.000-05:00

Revealing the Secret behind the Romance Book Club

What happens behind the scenes at the ... Romance Book Club

By: Michelle Hughes

Sensual literature for lovers of Romance

Available Today Everywhere

Purchase on: Amazon Barnes &Noble Paperback

Include on your Goodreads TBR List

Jessie has given up on men. Her high school turned college sweetheart left her for another man, and if that wasn't a warning sign that she was meant to be the cat lady, nothing was. Give her a romance novel, a bottle of wine, and her favorite feline companion, and life was perfect in her eyes.+

When her book club decided to focus on sexy alpha male romances for the month, she had no idea how far the ladies were willing to go in the name of research. Finding herself in Sensation's Dungeon was certainly not part of her plans, neither was meeting sexy club owner and dungeon Master, Chase Davenport. With a body built for sin, bedroom eyes that promised fantasies guaranteed to lead her straight to hell, the pages of a book suddenly appeared tame.

"Welcome to my Dungeon." Those four little words might even tempt a bookworm to step into a world of sensual debauchery. So what really goes on behind the scenes at the Romance Book Club? Step into Sensation's and discover the answer for yourself.

It began with a love of reading romance behind the pages of a book... but in the end, reality would show a different world awaited if either of them were willing to take the chance.

Romance Book Club is a romance that delves into the world of bondage and discipline. It explores a different side of the dominant male, one that is rarely mentioned in romantic literature today.

Read the First Chapter

Keep up with the Author

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Congrats to E. Thompson for winning the $50 Amazon Gift Card!
L. Seiberling is the winner of the Paperback!

Spread the Word - Romance Book Club debuts tomorrow!

2013-05-14T06:00:00.000-05:00

Friends of Crimson, Help Me Spread the Word! Romance Book Club debuts tomorrow and we want to tell as many people as we can about the release. This will be available in eBook and Paperback! You'll have our love, and since we love for eternity, that's a lot of love to go around.

Some tweets you might want to share to help us kick off the debut:

Hot, sexy and a #MustRead http://bit.ly/13SiGmB Romance Book Club, what really happens? Ask @MichelleHughes_

Romance Book Club and you makes a #bestseller http://bit.ly/13SiGmB RT @MichelleHughes_

The debut of Romance Book Club by @MichelleHughes_ spread the word and RT http://bit.ly/13SiGmB

Stop in on the Amazon Romance Book Club page while you're there please:

Scroll down to Forums on the page and sign in to show your support.

Purchase the book.

Review Romance Book Club.

Pin the cover to www.pinterest.com

Facebook: You can find me on facebook at www.facebook.com/authormichellehughes please like the page and share.

Thanks so much Friend's of Crimson. With your help this will be our greatest launch yet! Don't forget to enter the contest for the $50 gift card and free books today, it's the last day!

Love Reading Books? Reviewer's Needed

2013-05-13T00:26:00.000-05:00

Wanda’s Amazing Amazon Reviewer’s

Join the Group

If you love great books, and can’t wait to share the news about your latest read, please consider joining Wanda’s Amazing Amazon Reviewer’s. They have one goal at WaAR, and that’s to get 50 HONEST book reviews per book. These incredible folks review books out of the goodness of their hearts, and I wanted to take a moment to share some appreciation. They need great folks like you to continue sharing all these incredible reviews!

WaAR’s doesn’t sugar coat a review, trust me I know! If they love a book you’ll know it, and if they don’t you can believe you’ll know that too. If you’re looking to review books where you can give your honest opinion, this is the group for you. Honest reviews, from great reader’s with integrity. Stop in and discover them, and see if they are the fit for you!

Happy Mother's Day from Tears of Crimson!

2013-05-12T00:17:00.000-05:00

When I look back on my life, there is one person who has never let me down. She stood by me when the rest of the world thought I was foolish for pursuing my dreams. She held me in her arms when I cried out my frustrations. She never judged, or made me regret confiding my most embarrassing secrets. She was my cheerleader in the background, always happy to take a backseat and let me shine. Never in my life has any other person loved so unselfishly, or given so much of herself without asking for anything in return. To this beautiful woman, who will always shine brighter than the sun in my eyes, I want to honor you today. My mother, my best friend, my guardian angel on this earth, you are this and so much more. Mom, I love you! -- Michelle Hughes

Today at Tears of Crimson, we honor mother's everywhere! These incredible women are the reason we are all here. They dried our tears, wiped our noses, and have seen us at our worst, and still they love us! What a wonderful person it takes to love you while seeing all your flaws. Mother's Day should be every day of the year, because a Mother's love is unwavering.

Romance Book Club - Tour Schedule

2013-05-10T13:46:00.001-05:00

The Reveal Begins! Follow these incredible blogs who were kind enough to share the cover reveal for Romance Book Club. Much love to all these incredible bloggers! Tears of Crimson is always available for you!

Friday, May 10

Confessions of a Reader

Tyhada Reads

Sweet ‘n Sassi

Urban Girl Reader

Saturday, May 11

Jezzeb

AR Book Corner

Bookswagger

Review From Here

Sunday, May 12

Romance Book Worm

Just Booked

Inside BJ’s Head

Literal Exposure

Fictional Candy

Monday, May 13

Nightstands and Novels

Mary’s Cup of Tea

As the Pages Turn

Between the Covers

Book Marketing Buzz

Tuesday, May 14

Reading Renee

Love Books! Book Reviews

Illustrious Illusions

The Writer’s Life

Redroom

My Life. One Story at at Time

Wednesday, May 15

Miki’s Hope

Moonlight, Lace, and Mayhem

My Neurotic Book Affair

Book Brainer
Erotica Book Club
What to Read After Fifty (50) Shades of Grey
BDSM Book Reviews

Friday Escape - We're Taking a Break

2013-05-10T06:00:00.000-05:00

We're getting ready to debut our newest title, Romance Book Club, but we didn't want to leave you without a Friday Escape. Meet Leif Hollinsworth, that's Mr. Sexy in bed waiting to fulfill some fantasies for you. Just who is this guy? I'll give you a hint, he's not the lead in Romance Book Club, but if you purchase the eBook, you'll get a lot more information about him in an exclusive sneak peek only for ebook buyers.

What I can tell you about Leif? He owns a tropical island. He loves long ... well maybe not walks on the beach, but he likes doing naughty things there. Oh, and he's definitely a charmer. That's about all the inside info he's allowing me to give at the moment. Obviously he's an alpha male, or he wouldn't be living in the Tears of Crimson mansion!

We hope you enjoy your Friday! Please forgive us for our need to take a step back until next week. From every one at Tears of Crimson: Play hard, love long, and enjoy each moment until sleep demands you fall under it's spell. We'll be waiting for you in your dreams.............

Choose your Book Boyfriend

2013-05-08T07:59:00.000-05:00

Need a book boyfriend that won't break your heart? Well look no further! Tears of Crimson has the perfect man for you. He doesn't talk back. He'll be there when you need him. And if you get bored, he won't complain when you move on to the next. Sound good? Well here are our choices today!

You can pick any of them up at Amazon. And don't forget we'll have a new book boyfriend for you on the 15th of May. We didn't want the other men to get jealous, so we decided to show them some love today. One of the great things about a book boyfriend, is they don't mind you showing up in shorts and your favorite t-shirt. So from vampires, to sheik's, to sexy alpha males and music producer's; Tears of Crimson is your number one source for book boyfriend dating. You're welcome!

Book Blogger Love - Sending Crimson Love

2013-05-07T14:12:00.000-05:00

Sharing the love with some incredible bloggers!

It's Tears's Thankful Tuesday!

She's the hottest book worm on the planet, and runs the Romance Bookworm's Reviews! Click on over and discover who, I mean what she's got heating up her blog today!

No matter what your mood, Renee has got the book to suit you! Discover this fantastic lady and her incredible blog. Hurry up she's waiting!

Looking for a new book boyfriend to heat up your night, Illustrious Illusions will find you one that fits just right. Stop in and discover the love!

Reviews, Promotions, Contests and more.... Nightstand Novel's is the blog you're looking for. Stop in and tell them Tears of Crimson sent you!

Books that she loves and cover sneak peeks, makes Jezzeb the blogger you are longing to meet. Send some Crimson love her way!

I just got booked I'm throwing away the key, join me at this great book blog and have some fun with me! Waiting on you now!

She loves a great book and knows how to share, it's a no Book Brainer your next location where! Follow the Crimson Trail of love!

Nook Press - Crimson Love

2013-05-06T11:22:00.000-05:00

Nook Press

Sharing some Crimson Love with this ingenious idea from Nook for publishers. We gave this new tool a test drive today and the results were amazing. Formatting for ePub has just gotten 100% easier. So why are we so impressed? For years we've had to fidget with outside programs to upload our work to Nook. It was a royal pain in the arse, and was just time consuming.

What's different now? Nook Press allows you to upload your document, and lay out the format directly on the screen. You can add in a Table of Contents with ease, and see exactly what the reader will. It can be a word doc. which is a huge positive for us. The options to create your own title or dedication page, with the opportunity to see how it will appear, is another huge plus for the folks at Nook Press.

This is an idea that's long overdo. Making things easier and showing an onscreen layout is the perfect combination. If you've already got a pubIt account, switching over is very basic. If you don't, then creating one is worth it. We're sold on Nook Press, and just wanted to share the love today! Thanks for a great new service!

10 Day Countdown - Romance Book Club

2013-05-05T01:26:00.000-05:00

Three hours of sleep a night for the last week as we get ready to debut Romance Book Club! Last minute edits, the third cover change, and formatting tweaks, that's been the insanity at Tears of Crimson. Doing things the right way, is definitely not the easy way. We decided to give a little inside peek of what work goes into preparing a book for print and electronic media. Basically, we just wanted our friends to understand why we weren't spending more time socializing!

The cover had our focus for most of that time. There was an image we wanted to portray with this book that took a little tweaking to get right. Five seconds, that's the average length of time you have to catch someones attention. The cover has to pop, and give a generalized idea about the story inside. That's our opinion.

Romance Book Club started with a rough draft, then went through a professional critique. After that critique, the book was basically rewritten. Then the line edits came in. We're all very impressed with the editor, she went above and beyond what was expected. So with the line edits, there were also mentions of what needed to be improved in the sidelines. Basically, this included almost another complete rewrite. The end result? A story that flows, without interruption.

Formatting, not just for electronic media, but paperback. Our motto, if you're going to spend all the time to have a great story and kick arse cover, skimping on the formatting just makes no sense. This may be the best book to be released from our library, and that's not ego talking, it's knowing that we've taken the time to utilize the professionals in the industry that have more knowledge.

We're really excited to share the topic of Romance Book Club. It's a unique perspective, and again in our opinion, something that's needed to be shown in a romantic light. There is one alpha male who can't wait to share his story! All we can say before the reveal is that this is one steamy romance that might change your mind about alpha males in general. We hope you've already signed up to be part of the reveal starting May 10th, if you haven't, let us encourage you to do so now.

To be part of the reveal you can either be a book reviewer or blogger. We'll be giving the unseen cover, book blurb, and depending on whether or not you review, ARC's. Blogger's can click the Romance Book Club tab at the top of the page, reviewers can click the TOC Mail button and drop us a line. We are all looking forward to sharing the story! Hurry up May 15th!

Friday Escape to Undiscovered Greece

2013-05-03T06:00:00.000-05:00

Undiscovered Greece - the island of Symi
by: Tony Wells

Undiscovered Greece - the island of Symi by: Tony Wells

Lovers of holidays to the Greek islands each have their favourite. For some it's a small Ionian hideaway like Paxos or Ithaca, for some it's an island with fabulous beaches and bathing, like Skiathos or Alonissos, and for others it's the sophistication and beauty of the surroundings, like Santorini, Skopelos or - Symi. Well, there's been no Mamma Mia yet on Symi but to many Greek island enthusiasts it's right up there in the top ten holiday destinations.

One key factor when it comes to Greek islands, say the experts, is that you mustn't be able to fly there direct. And Symi certainly fits the bill there. The nearest airport is on Rhodes, the capital of the Dodecanese (Greek for twelve) islands of the eastern Aegean. From Rhodes, one hour in the catamaran or two hours on the local ferry will bring you to the craggy outlines and clear blue waters of Symi, which lies to the north of Rhodes a couple of miles off the Turkish coast. As the boat rounds the headland into Symi bay, the first time traveller is met by a wonderful vista of handsome stone buildings spread across the three hillsides framing the harbour.

This is Symi. For while the island is not as small as some Greek jewels - Paxos, for instance, or tiny Tilos - it consists really of Symi town, a beautiful agglomeration of neo-classical buildings grouped around and above a lovely natural harbour. The town is divided into two sections, the lower harbour area, Yialos, and the upper Chorio or village, the two being linked by one of Symi's best known features, a flight of over 400 steps known as the Kali Strata (beautiful steps). The donkeys who used to struggle up these steps laden with logs, water barrels and various wares have now largely been replaced by motor vehicles but they still labour up the slopes with visitors' luggage attached and set an example to less fit visitors pausing for breath on their ascent.

Symi town is where almost all the accommodation is found, since in its heyday in the 19th century, when Symi grew rich on the proceeds of shipbuilding and sponge-diving, the Symiots constructed their imposing three-storey houses almost exclusively in the town. These are the dwellings which have steadily been restored as holiday accommodation since the advent of Greek tourism in the 1970s.

Opinion is divided over whether the place to stay in Symi is the village or the harbour. There are advantages and drawbacks to both. The village is a long climb on foot, especially in 90 degrees of heat in July and August, but is quiet and offers splendid views once you are there. The harbour area is more bustling, as most of the (very good) tavernas, cafes and shops are located there and there are boats of various sizes drawing in or pulling out during most of the day.

Travel a la carte, who have been bringing holidaymakers to Symi for twenty years now, rather hedges its bets on this question - by having some of its prime properties between the two. Laza penthouse, for instance, a superb one-bedroom apartment enjoying glorious views over the harbour, and the larger Villa Laza below, are a quarter of the way up the Kali Strata and so get the best of both worlds: proximity to the local amenities combined with tranquillity and commanding views. The two can be taken together or separately, with the villa itself being the model of a beautifully restored old Symi house, with typical mousandra or sleeping platform in the huge living room and a lovely walled courtyard garden.

Villa Laza is also one of the very few properties on Symi with a swimming pool. Some people considering Symi for a holiday have the mistaken impression that swimming is a problem on the island. Obviously it's simple if, as at Villa Laza, you have your own pool or, as at the newly built Iapetos Village Hotel, there is a pool for use by all residents. But even though only very few Symi properties have this facility - the island is a conservation area and some planning permission is very difficult to obtain - there is one beach just a very pleasant 15-minute walk from the centre of town and several others within easy striking distance by boat. Sea taxis ply at regular intervals between Symi harbour and the various nearby beaches - Aghios Nikolaos, Aghia Marina and Nimborio - while Pedhi Bay can also be reached by bus. The water is crystal clear and the beaches generally have at least one taverna nearby where drinks or a light lunch can be enjoyed in between the sunbathing and swimming.

Another alternative is to swim directly in Symi bay. Only the local schoolchildren do this in the harbour itself but a bit further out the water is perfectly fine for taking a dip. Villa Eleni, a new addition to Travel a la carte's range of Symi properties, is perfectly positioned for such activity. On the western arm of the bay a few hundred metres from the main harbour, the two apartments at Villa Eleni look directly out to sea and each has a flight of steps leading down to the water's edge. Very few other properties in Symi town can offer this facility. Diving off the terrace at Villa Eleni, you may no longer find any of the sponges which were the foundation of Symi's wealth all those years ago but you will certainly be the envy of many of your fellow holidaymakers, particularly those catching their breath halfway up the Kali Strata and wishing, instead, they were being lapped by the cool waters of the Aegean.

About The Author: Tony Wells is the MD of Travel a la carte ltd, an independent tour operator to the Greek islands and Italy, and has been involved in the company since the early 1990s. He travels frequently to both Greece and Italy and has worked in all aspects of the business, from sales, marketing and PR to financial control and management. His email address is tony@travelalacarte.co.uk. For more information on Travel a la carte's Symi programme and all of the company's properties on the island, go to Holiday Villas on Symi at www.travelalacarte.co.uk or call 01635 33800 and ask for Tony Wells

Southern Women - The What Not To Do Guide

2013-05-02T06:00:00.000-05:00

The Etiquette Guide

Ever heard that old saying "You Don't Want To Mess With A Southern Woman"? Well there's a reason why! Southern women can be the most kind-hearted, giving, trusting people you've ever met, but if you cross one, you better be prepared for a life-long feud. There's a moral code in the South, we help others and stick together when the going gets tough. For those of us outside the city limits that bond is even stronger. We still depend on each other in times of trouble. Many things have changed in the South and we are just as tech savvy as the rest of the United States (a fact still unknown to some people) but when it comes to how we handle our problems, let's just say that we protect our own.

If you show up at my house on any weekend, there's always going to be the offer of great food and friendship. Friends that stop in understand that, and also know that you respect the rules of the land. Our friends know if they ever need anything, and it's within our means, we'll do our best to take care of them. On that same principle, if we ever needed anything we could go to them and ask for the same in return. It's called mutual respect, and the topic of today's conversation on Tears of Crimson.

Tears of Crimson is my home on the web, and the people that stop in here, I consider friends. If I can help you in any way, and again if it's within my means, I'm going to do it. That being said, when you come into my house and try to disrupt the peace I'm going to hold you accountable. If you turn into one of those people that are like a sheep in wolves clothing, you're going to be shown the door. Have a nice day, it was nice knowing you, and don't let the front door hit ya where the good Lord split ya! Couldn't resist, always wanted to say that in a post. But seriously, Tears is a place for great friends, and fun and anyone attempting to disrupt our happy little nest ... well just remember the above saying "You don't want to mess with a Southern Woman".

Now most of you probably have no idea why I've decided to take a stand on the soap box today, because I do my very best to keep any negativity behind the scenes. Spam is only one reason I began moderating comments on the blog. There are a few people who have taken it upon themselves to spew some very nasty lies that they aren't willing to back up in a court of law. Malicious rumors, temper tantrum statements and even childish threats were issued. Some of them came attached with a name (for those people at least you had the courage not to hide) other's by fake or anonymous user names, which really just annoy me because if you have something to say be an adult and don't hide behind the curtain.

Something I've learned over the years is that people spewing off hatred usually do so because they are frustrated at their own lack of success. It's much easier to blame someone else for your failures instead of going out there and working toward making your life what it should be. Back when I began Tears of Crimson in 2009, I knew what my goals were and for years I kept pushing until doors finally started to open. There were no hand outs and I put eight or more hours in a day, pushing toward a goal that I refused to give up on. Hard work and dedication, that's what works and if you're not willing to put that in, then don't blame others for your lack of motivation.

For the friend's of Crimson, I thank you from the bottom of my heart for continuing to be so supportive. For all those malicious rumor spreaders, find a new place to stalk, you're not welcome here. Consider this the Private Property area of Friend's of Crimson and be on your merry way. Vulgar language, threats, or any immature variation of the previous will be dealt with publicly from this point forward. To put it simply, if you don't like what we're doing here, why are you here? If you feel obligated to continue slithering around in the back alley, maybe you should consider working on making your own life better.

This is that Southern woman you rarely get to see because I was raised to show Southern hospitality. And let me just quote "American by birth, Southern by the Grace of God."

Behind the Book with Sylvia Stein

2013-05-01T06:00:00.000-05:00

Behind the Books with Sylvia Stein

When did you first decide you wanted to be an author?

I wanted to first become an author since as early as the age of 7. I can still recall writing my first stories about fairies and enchanted places. I always wanted to create a make believe world since my mom and dad divorced and we had to go and live with my grandparents.

Tell us about your life when you're not writing?

I love to spend time with my husband Jeremy and three wonderful children Paul 8, Michael 7 and Consuelo 3.

What's the one thing people don't know about you?

I can speak Spanish fluently since I grew up with the language being born Mexican American born and raised in Brownsville Texas to parents that immigrated from Mexico and became citizens in the 1970’s.

If you weren't an author, what would your other career choice be?

I would be a song writer because I love music, and writing songs.

Was there any one person that helped you decide to pursue this path? If so who?

Yes there was. It was actually two people my mother in law Kathie Stein because she was is a fiber artist who works a full time job and she told me to focus on what I love and not give up on it! I also wanted to thank Best selling author Melissa Foster whom I met on fb and has inspired me to keep going with her World Literary Cafe and the #Sharethelove4Authors from the WLC Community, Melissa’s Awesome Support Team etc. She along with other fellow authors have been amazing.

How do you come up with the stories you write?

I start to envision my characters, then I create the story around that particular character.

What's the most frustrating part of being an author in your opinion?

The most frustrating part of being an author in my opinion is finding more time to write. I love being a wife and mother of three however since I have little ones, I have to adjust my schedule to their own.

What's the most positive part of being an author in your opinion?

The most positive part of being an author is creating stories and characters that all come to me.

What category do your books fall under?

I write all types of genres. My categories are fictional stories- that fall under fantasy, romance and also psychological thrillers.

Have you ever considered writing outside that category? If so which one and why?

Yes I have as a matter of fact. I have joined a writer’s group on LinkedIn and I write

anything from science fiction to mystical and so forth.

What advice have you followed that has made a significant change in your perspective?

The advice I was given when I first got into writing was to join a writer’s group so that others could help to critique my work. This was done by best selling author and Book doctor David Henry Sterry. David and his wife Arielle who has been a literary agent for years and also author teamed up to help authors perfect their pitches in what it is they are writing and have helped many authors. It changed my perspective and has helped in the way I write my dialogue and in creating my characters.

If a new author came to you and asked for advice, what advice would you give?

If a new author came to me and asked for my advice I would tell them to write and always find the time to write and never give up on it. No matter how busy you get find time to always create and write.

Would you rather be a self-published author or signed to a major publishing company?

I think I would like to start out as a self publish author and try and publish if I can as an independent author and then if it so happened a major publishing company would sign me that would be great too. However, I have met some very talented and wonderful independent authors and I have to say that I respect both Indie as well as traditional publishers.

What's the difference between your online personality and your personal life?

There is no difference between my online personality and my personal life. I am Sylvia Stein all the time wife, mother, friend, author and I love to treat everyone with respect all the time. I do not think I need to change and be different. The only thing is I do keep two facebook pages one of my personal with my family and kids but I do share about them also in my separate writing page!

When you think about writing, do you consider this more of a professional career or a hobby?

I consider my writing as a professional career. I really am enjoying this part of my life so much. I waited so long to make it a reality. Now that it is here I just want to do it all the time. I am also going for a Master’s of Creative Writing.

What was the first story you wrote? Did you publish it?

The first story I wrote was The Hidden Message with my writer’s group. Prior to that I had written stories as a kid and also wrote plays and poems. I do have poems that were published on Poetry. com. However my first published work became a reality this past February 14, 2013 when my first Anthology with my writer’s group was published along with 15 other authors. This has been a dream come true.

How have you changed as an author since your book was published? No I have not changed since I became a published author. I always recognize that this could not have been possible without the support of my family. My husband is very supportive and also the Writers Group.

Do you consider yourself a sociable person in real life or more private?

Depends on the event. I am friendly and sociable and not a shy person. I grew up as the oldest of 7 in our family so I always tended to be the one who tried to protect everyone else.

What was your favorite vacation, and why?

My favorite vacation has been whenever I get to go back home and visit Brownsville, Texas because I miss my family and friends and the good Texas food.

If you could have your book read by any celebrity, who would it be and why?

I would have to say Jodi Picoult and Nicholas Sparks who have been such big inspirations. Also Jillian Flynn.

Are there any social causes that you support? If so what are they and why?

I tried to support social causes that deal with women and children. The main reason is that my mother was a victim of domestic violence so whenever possible I try to support that cause. Also I am a mother of three and I think causes that deal with protecting our children and also I am against Bullying- no child or anyone should ever have to deal with that type of issue.

Follow Sylvia Stein

Facebook @sylvia_stein07 Website/Blog

End of Night - The Journey Ends

2013-04-30T06:15:00.000-05:00

It began with tragedy.

Continued with rebirth.

Intensified with an uncovered past.

How will it all end?

The wait is almost over!

Storm Sullivan's epic journey comes to an end tomorrow with the release of

END OF THE NIGHT

I am thrilled to reveal the stunning new cover created by the brilliant and fabulously talented,

Tammie Clarke Gibbs.

And, a teaser excerpt.....

Storm

Beep, Beep, Beep.

Storm groaned and rolled over, right into PacMan’s back. “PacMan, you bad boy.” She halfheartedly mumbled the reprimand and attempted to push his body to no avail. “Fine. Be that way.” Slapping the snooze button to silence the alarm, Storm draped an arm over her dog and snuggled into the short soft fur, relishing the gentle rise and fall of his chest.

Beep, Beep, Beep.

PacMan snorted and licked Storm’s face. “Alright,alright, I’m getting up. I don’t know why you’re so put out, you get to lay around in bed all day.” Pushing off the bed, Storm reached down and flipped the alarm to off before breaking into a yawning stretch that was highlighted with a serious of soft cracks and pops as her spine realigned. For a second, Storm swore she heard a baby crying and paused at its closeness. She mentally chastised herself and shrugged. Must be the neighbors. The apartment walls were paper thin after all.

Stepping into the shower, Storm stood for several minutes under the steaming hot water, washing away the grime from the day before and the vague discomfort following the vision she’d had. The vision. It was an ugly one and somewhat painful if truth be told. She’d made the call to the precinct from her disposable cell and hoped they been able to nab the sicko in time. Part of her wanted to call Dan and Shane to ask about it but then they would wonder how she knew. Every time Storm had the same internal argument but ultimately did the right thing and waited for the news story. She rinsed off and stepped out, wrapping herself in a worn bath towel. PacMan sat in the doorway of the bathroom staring at her in his usual concerned way. Storm called him a worry wart because he always appeared to be frowning in concern.

“I think I talk to you too much, boy.” Storm turned from her dog and wiped off the mirror. A man’s face looked back at her. She blinked, rubbed her eyes and wiped at the mirror again but only saw her own reflection. “Yes, definitely. I am losing it.” Storm grumbled to herself and went about methodically combing the tangles from her hair before neatly plaiting it. With the towel secured tightly around her body she slipped back into the bedroom and flipped the television on to the morning news. Sifting through her wardrobe, Storm half listened to the weather and traffic. By the time the main anchor re-took the screen she’d slipped into a pair of black pin-striped pants and her least ratty white lace camisole. The story Storm had been waiting for came on just as she was slipping into her emerald green satin blouse.

Violet Patterson on Amazon

Working with Professionals in the Publishing Industry

2013-04-28T23:24:00.000-05:00

As a self-published author, I've worked with many different caliber people in my industry. With Romance Book Club, I wanted to make sure it had the best possible debut I could give, so I made some huge decisions. I have to give credit to my husband for those decisions, because he made a point I just couldn't disagree with. If you are trying to market something to the public why would you work with people that aren't professionals in their field? My husband works in the automotive industry, so while he has very little understanding of the publishing world, he's considered a leader in his area of expertise. That area requires him to made advertising decisions, and financial ones that affect his company, so when he speaks about business I listen.

When he offered to back this project, I knew exactly what I wanted to do if I had the ability to put my book out in the best possibly light. I hired a professional editor, cover designer, and decided that if I wanted to give the public a product they would be proud to buy, then I needed to have things done by people who knew what they were doing. After the fiasco with the last series I wrote, there was one thing that stood out clear in my mind. If I had better prepared, worked with people that do this for a living, instead of a hobby, I would still be selling those works. The bitterness I had over that situation melted away when that realization hit home.

As an author, you can do things the cheap, easy way, or you can invest time and money and put contracts in place that protect your work. Writing a book is a labor of love, being smart in your business decisions is just common sense. I realize that not everyone has someone willing to back their project, and believe me when I say I know how blessed I am to be afforded that opportunity. If you can't hire the pro's then at least protect yourself legally with contracts. Any person not willing to sign a contract stating that the work they are taking on is completely owned by you, is a person I would walk away from and never consider working with in the future.

Working with a professional editor is an experience that will change your entire attitude about writing. Having a professional critique of your manuscript is worth it's weight in gold. It might hurt your feelings, but you discover where you screw up in your writing efforts, and it helps you fix those problems before a book goes to print. Learning the industry tricks of the trade from those critiques can't even have a price tag put on it!

I wish you nothing but luck in your career as an author, and hope that my reading friends of Crimson forgive me for talking shop on the blog today! We'll get back to the fun stuff now!

Eric Northman you will always be "MY" true Love!

2013-04-28T06:00:00.000-05:00

For the last twelve years I've loved this man, and called him my fantasy book lover. Don't judge me I can have a fake book boyfriend if I want one *grins* My heart was shattered after some person from another country decided to give away the ending to a book that has felt like family since 2001. This was almost like losing a lover, not that I would know since I'm happily married *giving my sweet innocent face*, but you get the emotion I'm trying to define.

Yesterday I wanted to tear down a sign at one of the book shops that announced the arrival of this book that broke my heart. As if I weren't already dealing with the issue of not having this series end up where I wanted, I had to stare at that HUGE poster announcing the arrival of the book. I can only refer to the emotion as PSED (Post Traumatic Eric Disorder). It took me hours to not feel like crying my eyes out (yes I get emotional over the characters I love), and then a few more hours to come to some rational decisions that needed to be made so I could put this loss behind me.

On the one hand, Harris didn't deserve to have her book leaked to the US before the sell date. As an author I would be furious if something of this nature occurred. On the other I wasn't very happy with where she went with the story, so I couldn't feel much sympathy at the time. Then I had to make myself rethink the reason I was so upset, and I came to a conclusion. Eric belongs with me, at least in my dreams so him belonging to someone else, well that just isn't going to work. Even in my dreams I don't like to share, so some blonde waitress didn't deserve to have my dream lover *grins*.

That being said Eric is mine and Sookie can go jump off a cliff, or play with the dogs, she doesn't deserve a viking God like him anyway. I think I said he was mine back in 2009, obviously I knew what I was talking about! Using this mind set I can forgive Harris for breaking my heart, because at least in dreams the gorgeous vampire is still available. I won't give spoilers but that other thing in his life... she can go jump right off the cliff with Sookie!

Now I know this all sounds a little fanatic, and before you tell me I need to seek mental help for my obsession, let me just fill you in on some simple truths. I have a husband and five kids that I love with all my heart. Eric is not a real person and while I enjoy fantasizing about being the first lady of Area 5, I'm not sure me turning Vamp would go along with my image *grinning*. The one thing Harris managed to accomplish was creating an emotional bond between me and her characters. That is something any author can only hope to do. So kudos Harris, and I even forgive you for the tears!

Eric Northman you will always be my true love, so don't worry about the blonde bimbo, she never knew what a good thing she had! And considering that I'm in a generous mood today, I'm sure me and the millions of fans that love you can make you forget she ever existed. By the way if you ever feel the need to sneak back into my dreams again, I'll leave the window open!

Looking back on Tears of Crimson - #SampleSaturday

2013-04-27T06:00:00.000-05:00

Proud to be a supporter of the Virtual Ebook Fair Hosted by Tammie Clarke Gibbs

Looking Back on Tears of Crimson

Surrender to the night with the incredible vampire love story of Rafe and Cara, New Orleans Style

By: Michelle Hughes

The book behind Tears of Crimson

Originally Released June 9, 2009

Include on your Goodreads TBR List

What was he thinking? Normally he would have just sent someone like her away. If he allowed himself to rationalize his decision for giving her this job, he would have kicked her out of his club faster than normal. For reasons he cared not to delve into, he wanted this girl here and it had nothing to do with the fact that she would make a controllable employee. She had this charming innocence that surrounded her and it was compelling to a monster like him.

Interviewing for a job in a vampire bar was insane. She was barely old enough to drink, and the things that went on at Tears of Crimson terrified her, but there was just something about this man. Her mind told her to run but the thought of leaving him, it physically made her heart ache. Then she looked into those eyes....

She should have listened to her instincts. He read her mind, the demon in him roared in pleasure. She would be his! The scent of her blood combined with the awakening desire of an innocent, there was no way he could refuse the beast. Run little girl, the last remnants of his humanity wanted to scream. Forcing her out of his club that night had taken every ounce of restraint he had left.

The way he had looked at her was almost primal. Her heart raced as she drove back to her small apartment. Longing filled her in a terrifying capacity, it was like nothing she'd known in her entire twenty-one years of life. Sleep didn't dim the need, instead he came to her in dreams showing her a passion that could only have been born from the demons of hell.

New Orleans at night hides secrets down every alley. Welcome to Tears of Crimson, the New Orleans Vampire Bar.

It's still hard to believe it's been four years since the original release of Tears of Crimson. The title has changed, the book has went through major updates, and still it resonates in my heart as my first love. Rafe will always be my first love, and Cara is more a part of me than anyone will probably ever know. Even several books later, the love story that is found within the pages still haunts me in dreams. Currently I'm considering having the books redone with a professional editor or possibly even doing a complete rewrite. There's still one book left to complete as well, so the possibilities are endless. I've put off ending this story that speak louder to my heart than any other for long enough.

Keep up with Michelle Hughes

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Friday Escape - Hot Air Ballooning in Temecula Wine Country

2013-04-26T06:00:00.000-05:00

We've been focusing on very active Friday Escapes and this week we wanted to explore something a little different. Imagine flying high above the ground, and enjoying the incredible beauty of the scenery all from a private hot air balloon tour. If you've yet to experience this thrill, it's a treat that you must indulge yourself in at least once in your lifetime. We're focusing on Temecula, California because the scenery is just so breathtaking it's a must see. A Grape Escape Adventure has everything you need to journey into this amazing Friday Escape Destination!

The Flights are 60-75 minutes, and when you find the ground once again, you celebrate your landing with orange juice and champagne! If you schedule your trip from May 31st- June 2nd, you can also experience the Temecula Valley Wine and Balloon festival, making it an even more spectacular get away. There's nothing quite like it!

Lodging for your stay can be found in great resorts or quaint bed and breakfast inns, depending on your preference. Outside of the great balloon adventure, there are activities to keep you entertained such as bike trails, golfing, wine tours, musical concerts, and so much more you'll want to extend your trip. You can get a list of events happening in the area for your vacation time here.

Book Your Accommodations by Clicking the Photo Above or..

http://www.temeculacvb.com/things-to-do/

Behind the Book with Karen Vance Hammond #WW

2013-04-24T06:21:00.000-05:00

Karen Vance Hammond

When did you first decide you wanted to be an author?

The very first time I realized I wanted to be an author is when I started writing Shoe Marks a paranormal inspired by true events that took place in Texas. When I sat down to write the incredibly true story that is when I knew that writing and creating novels is my calling.

Tell us about your life when you're not writing?

My life is not any different from any other mother. I play taxi driver, cook, boo-boo kisser, dry tears and of course try to be the best wife that I can be to my husband. The only difference is my work is writing just like your work maybe a teacher or a doctor.

What's the one thing people don't know about you?

I guess the one thing that people don't know about me is that I used to be a runway model as well as compete in beauty contests. In fact, I was a contestant in the Miss Arkansas pageant.

If you weren't an author, what would your other career choice be?

I would want to be a special education teacher. Many people know I suffer from dyslexia as well as a reading/learning disability. Placed in special education classes all of my scholastic career, including college, I would want to give back to those that helped me. After all, if it wasn't for them, I would not be an author today.

Was there any one person that helped you decide to pursue this path? If so who?

That's a really tough question. There's not just one particular person that helped me decide to pursue writing.

I think it was a collection of people who encouraged me. After I wrote the first draft of Shoe Marks, I sent it to several friends for their opinion. Every one of them told me that Shoe Marks was incredible and that I had the gift of storytelling.

How do you come up with the stories you write?

I come up with the stories I write through people that I meet, or dreams that I have. In fact, the fifth novel I am writing, a high school teen gave me the idea, and I went with it. I have also been contacted another family who would like me to write their paranormal true story. This novel will be entitled The Stone.

What's the most frustrating part of being an author in your opinion?

Oh, that's an easy one! Being dyslexic is probably one of the most frustrating things I have to endure when writing. Going back and correcting can get very frustrating. However, last year I gave myself the best birthday present, which was the Dragon speech to text software.

What's the most positive part of being an author in your opinion?

The most positive part about being an author is the feedback that I receive. When I hear that a reader enjoys what I write, it pleases me. It makes me happy and I am encouraged to continue this path.

What category do your books fall under?

The well-known Kimberly Huddle Brouilette and my self have teamed up in completing ‘Secrets in the Shallows’ from The Monastery Murders series, part 1 which is now on the market and my first novel, Shoe Marks falls under the genre of Paranormal, Suspense and thriller.

Have you ever considered writing outside that category? If so which one and why?

Yes, I have. In fact, I will be writing my autobiography entitled Karen's story: How a young woman with dyslexia combined with a learning disability becomes an award-winning, best-selling author. Readers are intrigued by my life story. I hope it helps people and encouraged them to do what they love and to strive for success.

What advice have you followed that has made a significant change in your perspective?

When I was struggling through high school and in college barely making it because of my dyslexia and disability, the number one thing that was drilled into my head is this: Never, ever give up for if you have a dream and a desire to do something; otherwise the answer is always going to be a 'no'.

If a new author came to you and asked for advice, what advice would you give?

Never edit your own work. The reason; Writers are too close to their manuscripts. Just like a mother is too close to their baby. They can't see the mistakes. It is always best to have a fresh pair of eyes, especially from an editor.

Would you rather be a self-published author or signed to a major publishing company?

When I first started the writing process, I knew that I did not want to be self-published. Therefore, I chose to go the traditional route and find a publishing company who believed in me. Anyone can self publish. Unfortunately, many self-publishing companies will give the good writers a bad rap. There are several self-publishing companies who just want your money and they don't care about the quality of the work.

What's the difference between your online personality and your personal life?

I have to honestly say that my personality does not change. Not even when I'm doing a television/radio interview. What you see with me, is what you get.

When you think about writing, do you consider this more of a professional career or a hobby?

Well, it's a hobby and a career combined. When I sit down to write, I lose myself in the characters of the manuscript. It is something I relish and enjoy!

What was the first story you wrote? Did you publish it?

The first story I ever wrote was Shoe Marks, a paranormal inspired by true events that took place in Texas. Synergebooks, a traditional digital and paperback publishing company believed in my work and me and wanted to publish it. It was a hard road but I got there.

How have you changed as an author since your book was published?

The only thing that has changed in me about being an author is the confidence that I have. When I sit down to write or create, I'm not afraid anymore. I don't question myself, "Can I do this?" which is exactly what I did when I sat down to write Shoe Marks. Once I knew that i had it in me the creative juices flowed and hasn't stopped.

Do you consider yourself a sociable person in real life or more private?

I am a social butterfly! Lol.. my family tells me I can make friends with the brick wall. I enjoy being social and being around people.

What was your favorite vacation, and why?

That is such a hard question because I have wonderful memories about every vacation that I have taken. I guess the one vacation that really stands out is when I went to Mexico on a mission trip. That vacation/mission trip changed me and how I view things.

If you could have your book read by any celebrity, who would it be and why?

I'm gonna have to say I would want my book read by two celebrities. Temple Grandin; I can identify with her on so many levels. See, I couldn’t read a simple book when I was eleven years old. Nor could I speak correctly. The next person would be John Irving, because he has dyslexia.

Are there any social causes that you support? If so what are they and why?

Yes, I do. I support American Disabilities and St. Jude.

Discover more about Karen Vance Hammond

Author Website

Romance Book Club Review Tour

2013-04-20T06:00:00.000-05:00

Sign-ups for Romance Book Club Review Tour

May 10th - May 15th

Book bloggers, are you looking for something to entice your readers? We've got a book that we believe will do just that. Ordinarily we would be building buzz for a new release by sharing the cover and excerpts from the soon to be released book, but this release is completely different! Until release date there will be no cover reveal or information about the Romance Book Club, unless you're involved with the review tour. This is a way of offering your readers something unique that they can't get anywhere else. Everything's being kept secret, because what really goes on behind the scenes at a Romance Book Club might just shock you.

For interested book bloggers, we will say that Romance Book Club is a contemporary romance with a sensual heat that takes it above the average romance read. Basically, if you don't like books hot and steamy then you probably won't be interested in reviewing. If you like your romance with sexy love scenes, and a unique perspective into the insight of an alpha male, this book may be your favorite of 2013.

By now you're probably asking what's in it for me? You haven't told me much about the book, so why should I be willing to join in this blog tour? So glad you asked, because book bloggers are the reason we live, okay that and fantastic readers! As a participant for the review tour you will receive a digital ARC (advanced release copy). We're keeping the lid so tight on this book that you need a background in computer science to get any information about it early! Also we will plug your site to all of our 250,000 contacts during and long after this tour is over. We don't forget the people that have our backs!

All tour hosts will be given a book cover, tour banner, and media kit to be included with the blog post. Giveaway's for this tour include a $50 Amazon gift card, Five eBook versions in either mobi or epub, and one paperback.

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Friday Escape - Glacier National Park

2013-04-19T10:30:00.000-05:00

Exploring Glacier National Park
Glacier Park is an adventure for all ages and for anyone who loves the natural beauty of the outdoors. With over 200 waterfalls, horseback riding, glacier fishing, and of course white water rafting, it's a must add to our Friday Escape. Lodging can be anywhere from rustic cabins, to upscale accommodations, so you get to choose how you want to enjoy the majestic beauty of this incredible location. To discover all the great lodging you can visit http://www.nationalparkreservations.com/glacier.php
Horseback riding at Glacier Park can start with a one hour trip, full-day excursions or for those that want to experience how it felt to live on horseback, an overnight trip. They offer riding with fishing packages as well, so no matter how you enjoy your outdoors you're bound to have a great time here! Imagine having wranglers setting up camp for you and eating around the campfire, the stories you could bring home would be incredible.

Glacier Park Lodge
Our pick for lodging is the Glacier Park Lodge. Almost a storybook view and comforts that allow you to enjoy the beauty of nature without actually roughing it. The lodge has scenic bus tours, a spa, evening entertainment, 36 hole golf course, evening entertainment, a boat cruise and was built in 1915. The picture below shows the lobby.

If you're interested in the ultimate Adventure this year, we're listing Glacier National Park as one of our top 10 Friday Escapes in the US! If you have photo's of a spectacular vacation that you would like us to discuss on Tears of Crimson drop us a line!

Romance Book Club

2013-04-18T07:04:00.002-05:00

At Tears of Crimson, I think it's pretty obvious that we love romance books. Not just one type of romance either, we love it all! From paranormal to contemporary and the steamy erotic romance, any book that discusses the different ways people can fall in love will have a welcome place on our bookshelf. We started Tears of Crimson back in 2009 to share our love of paranormal romance with our friends of Crimson, and no one on the staff had any idea our world would expand so much. Today we have another new addition and that's the Romance Book Club on Facebook, and Twitter!

It started off on a whim last week, just a simple facebook page to share great stories and the fantasies they generate. In less than three days we had 2,100 new friends, so we took that as people are interested in not only sharing romance books, but talking about the things they make them feel. Discussing new romance books is great, but there are some incredible older books out there that people still have strong feelings about as well. We think that's what makes the Romance Book Club really different. Yes, we talk about the new romance of the heart being put out there, but we also live in memory of some of the great classics that never left our hearts.

At the Romance Book Club we don't just discuss the book, we explore the scenarios. What would it be like to walk in the steps of the heroine? That's our focus. It's amazing what people share about their own lives when you start talking romance. So what really happens behind the scenes at a Romance Book Club? Come join us and find out! Not convinced yet? Well how about a little tease...

...after reading the first book in the Anne Rice Sleeping Beauty Trilogy, I couldn't stop thinking about the scenes in the book. I'd never even dreamed people consider such things. That led me on a journey of self-exploration that still fascinates me today. The book was published in 1999 and at the time AOL was the first real social media connection for normal people, not just computer geeks. There was a group in chat called Le Chateau' and when I found it I couldn't believe people were living out a lifestyle that wasn't as intense as the one in the book, but it had some of the same qualities... After a year of chatting with people living that life I had to know the real truth, not just what I'd read in a book, or heard people discussing online.

I met an incredible couple that invited me to their home to share with me a lifestyle that would remain in my thoughts long after I returned back to my own hometown. The experiences were like nothing I'd ever dreamed of before, and a love of the world of dominance and submission was born. It was captivating, sensual, and I was enthralled. It would be years later before the world finally accepted this as a safe, sane, way of exploring fantasies, but thanks to an incredible author... and a wonderful group of friends, I discovered a world of sensuality that finally has become mainstream.

We'll be waiting to hear your fantasies at the Romance Book Club