Schizoid Personality Disorder - individual generally detached from social relationships, and shows a narrow range of emotional expression in various social settings.

Author Note (test creator):I don't think Schizoid personality is a valid disorder (read), some of the smartest people in history were schizoid because they occupied a remote end of the intelligence bell curve. Schizotypal personality can encompass highly original thinkers as well as totally insane people so I think it's a flawed type. I think the remaining eight disorders are generally valid.

You can always click here to diagnose yourself.....

Been reading up a storm lately, and these are the books that I've spending my time with. It's a little bit of everything and from 3 of my favorite auto-buy authors:

LUCY MONROE



Paperback: 342 pages
Publisher: Brava (May 6, 2006)
Language: English
ISBN: 0758211767

Claire Sharp trusts few people and relies on no one. But after her life is threatened, ex-mercenary Brett Adams blows into her self-contained world, full of southern charm, rugged good looks, and enough sexual experience to write a how-to manual...experience he makes it clear he'd like to use on Claire. She wants help fighting the bad guys, but she's not about to fall into Brett's bed. For one thing, the guy has a no-commitment clause better than most big shot attorneys and for another, despite her response to his too sensual kisses, in her experience sex isn't exactly fireworks and brass bands. Definitely not worth getting all excited over...
Brett plans to prove her wrong. He’s never felt such a powerful combination of lust and friendship with a woman. He'll give her a white-hot pleasure like nothing she’s ever known and she'll realize that some things in life are worth taking the risk for. When the threat to Claire grows dangerously close, pitting them against deadly odds, Brett will do whatever it takes to save her. Because Claire Sharp has just found herself a man who’s ready to bring it on, willing to do what it takes, and able to go the distance...


Hotwire is a confident male who excels at everything he does. But his reaction to Claire throws him for a loop. He just cannot keep away from her. He knows he's in trouble when he tells her what his real name is, and she insists on calling him Brett instead of Hotwire. He feels very protective of her, but insists that their relationship will never be more than a physical one. But oh what a physical one it is! Hotwire is a very sexual man - he loves giving pleasure to a woman and is not ashamed to admit it. We see a very vulnerable side of Brett because of his feelings for Claire, and learn more about his background and how he grew up. He has a more sensitive nature than he lets on, and this glimpse into that part of him makes him more human.

Claire is a young woman who's had her own growing pains, but she is determined to make something out of her future and focuses all her energy on making something out of herself. In her mind, Brett is out of her reach, but he genuinely seems to want her. At first she is reluctant to get involved with him, but she is unable to resist their attraction. Once she makes the decision though, she gives herself wholeheartedly to Brett, and revels in the pleasure he gives her. The more she gets to know him, the more she feels for this southern charmer, and realizes that while his words might say he's not looking for a commitment, his heart is saying something entirely different.

I've been eagerly awaiting this book by Lucy, but dreading it at the same time. I really hated to see the series come to an end. Even now I can't decide who I like better: Wolf, Nitro, or Hotwire. All very special men in their own way. And so are the heroines: Lise, Josette, and Claire. Lucy teases us with a glimpse at another irresistible hero: Ethan Crane. I hope that means we'll get glimpses of our past heroes and heroines in any upcoming books.

MARYJANICE DAVIDSON




Paperback: 320 pages
Publisher: Berkley Trade (April 4, 2006)
Language: English
ISBN: 0425207951

USA Today bestselling author MaryJanice Davidson has enchanted readers everywhere with her delicious blend of wicked humor, sizzling sex and a totally unique vision of vampires and werewolves. Now, in this collection of four sensual novellas, worlds collide when she brings her beloved Wyndham werewolves together with the vampires ruled by Undead Queen Betsy Taylor. In three of her most popular novellas, a Wyndham werewolf finds their perfect-sometimes reluctant!-mate, whether mortal or immortal. The collection culminates with the highly anticipated original story of feral vampire George the Fiend, as he meets the only female who can tame the beast within-a lovely werewolf. Filled with equal parts of spicy heat and laugh-out-loud moments, this collection will drive you wild with blood-pounding delight.

OMG, this is one series you have to get! MaryJanice Davidson is one of the funniest authors around - she excels at humor. And this collection of stories fits together perfectly. In "Santa Claws", Alec Kilcurt is a powerful werewolf who can't wait to get out of Boston and head home when he finds, okay, he smells his mate. Giselle Smith can't believe this European hottie wants her, but he is pretty obvious about the fact that he does. Very much. And who can resist a sexy accent coming from a rich alpha male (!) who adores her? "Monster Love" is the unlikely love story between werewolf Janet Lupo and vampire Richard Will. Janet is one outspoken bitch (and I mean that in the nicest possible way) and their love story is cantankerous and romantic. Richard delights in Janet's insults, and only feels as alive as a vampire can feel while he is basking in her insults. Ahhh, true love...Werewolf Drake may be blind, but he can see - at least he can see Cresent, the love of his life. Only she's a lot younger than him. But age doesn't seem to matter when you've found the one you belong to....George finally finds his own mate in "A Fiend in Need" when "defective" werewolf Antonia (!) travels to Minneapolis to meet Betsy, the queen.

All of these were great stories, though a bit shorter than I would have liked, especially George's. But they are laugh-out-loud funny and filled with lots of sexy scenes - you won't be disappointed. In fact, you might just feel the overwhelming urge to go and buy all of MJ's backlist. That's what I'd recommend.....


LISA KLEYPAS




Paperback: 384 pages
Publisher: Avon (March 1, 2006)
Language: English
ISBN: 006056251X


A devil's bargain ...
Easily the shyest Wallflower, Evangeline Jenner stands to become the wealthiest, once her inheritance comes due. Because she must first escape the clutches of her unscrupulous relatives, Evie has approached the rake Viscount St. Vincent with a most outrageous proposition: marriage!
Sebastian's reputation is so dangerous that thirty seconds alone with him will ruin any maiden's good name. Still, this bewitching chit appeared, unchaperoned, on his doorstep to offer her hand. Certainly an aristocrat with a fine eye for beauty could do far worse.
But Evie's proposal comes with a condition: no lovemaking after their wedding night. She will never become just another of the dashing libertine's callously discarded broken hearts -- which means Sebastian will simply have to work harder at his seductions...or perhaps surrender his own heart for the very first time in the name of true love.

Oh, who doesn't want to find out what happens to that bad, bad man Sebastian after what he did to one of Evie's best friends! Well this poor rake gets his comeuppance when he falls in love with the ultimate wallflower, and it couldn't have happened to a more deserving soul. Initially bored by her stuttering and utterly vapid appearance at his home, despite the inappropriateness of her visit, Sebastian is soon overcome by intense lust for this quiet yet determined young woman. Caught up in desperate circumstances of her own, Evie doesn't have time to shy away from St. Vincent, which intrigues him. His little shy Evie is a passionate, stubborn woman who heats his blood and soon melts his heart. No one falls harder into love than a wicked rake - probably because he never thinks it's going to happen to him - but when it does, it is an intense, all-consuming passion for the one woman brave enough to look into his heart and still stay with him despite all he may have done....

So....there you have it. I highly recommend each story, and urge you to go out and buy the books. These are the types of stories you can get lost in, laugh with, and fall in love.

colorgenics test

You have always been on the move seeking affectionate, satisfying and harmonious relationships. Your ultimate goal has been the realisation of an intimate union in which there could be love, self-sacrifice and mutual trust. It has often been said that 'True love is just around the corner' and - if you haven't found it as yet - you possibly soon will.

At this time you 'need to be needed' and again you 'need to need'. You have had this feeling for some time now and you are looking for someone who could share a close bond in an atmosphere of shared intimacy. You have the belief that with the right person you could conquer the world.

The present situation, not of your making, is forcing you to compromise. You will have to hold back and forgo some of your hopes, dreams and aspirations.

You are pretending that the situation around you doesn't matter, but the effort of trying to conceal your emotions and anxieties is resulting in untold stress. The existing situation is disagreeable. You feel unwanted and lonely and you would really like to associate with someone whose ideals are as high as your own. You want to be above the standard of mediocrity and this need to be needed and that need to need has almost become an obsession. You are trying to magnify the need into a compelling urge. You would really like to tell the world how great you are but no, you are holding back because you feel that your peers may treat you with contempt. This is a great pity because you have in fact a unique quality of character, but the continual restraint that you impose on yourself makes you suppress this need for others and you pretend you don't really care. You treat those who criticise you with contempt. However, to be honest, beneath this assumption of indifference you really long for the approval and esteem of others.

You would like to be respected and valued for yourself and this can only be achieved from within a close and harmonious relationship.

-----

Wow. A lot of truth to some of these statements, though I think it could fit anyone. I am not currently in a "disagreeable situation" - I couldn't stand to be in a relationship like that. I find it amusing that I want the world to know how great I am but am afraid that others will look down on me because of it. LOL. Maybe there is some truth to that - thinking I am better than I really am. Basically I am not afraid to be alone and just don't choose to settle. I've seen too many people who have and believe me, there is no envy on my part. If it happens, it happens. If not, oh well. It's better than being with someone just so I'm not alone. That sounds really depressing to me. It's way more fun being single ;)

Romance author Brenda Novak is on a mission - to cure diabetes. So when she's not writing, she's working on her mission. You see, diabetes hits close to home for Brenda - her youngest son Thad has the disease. The Juvenile Diabetes Research Foundation (JDRF)is the leading charitable funder and advocate of type 1 (juvenile) research worldwide. Diabetes kills one American every three minutes, and those are just the statistics in the U.S. For more information, click here.

Hey, when the romance community gets together to support one of their own, they are one strong unit! Look at what the romance community is doing for JDRF! The auction begins May 1st and will run for the whole month of May. To encourage bidding, there are lots of amazing prizes Brenda has included to give to the person who has the highest number of bids. Brenda also has a flyer to hand out to family and friends. Let's help Brenda find a cure.


Thanx PattiF for the heads-up :)

In addition, MJ also writes YA stories with her husband, Anthony Alongi

"JENNIFER SCALES AND THE ANCIENT FURNACE"

Jennifer Scales is entering what may be the single most traumatic time in a person's life - puberty. And if we aren't all insecure enough, Jennifer discovers that her ancestral lineage is derived from dragons! How does a 14-year old cope with this kind of disaster?

Still need more of an MJD fix? Try her Royal family series, her "Gorgeous" Cyborgs, or one of her many anthologies!

But as any diehard fan will tell you, it's not enough. So, um, MJ, love ya, but um, write faster!

If there hadn’t been a 24-hour blackout… Tawny never would have confessed to Simon about his starring role in her explicit dreams. After all, Simon was her fiancé, Elliott’s best friend. Besides, Simon despised her. Didn’t he?
Simon never would have had the chance to spend a night with the woman he’d wanted since he met her. If only he hadn’t had to break the news about her fiance’s indiscretions first. Still, Tawny didn’t seem all that heartbroken--and Simon was quite prepared to kiss any lingering hurt all better…
They never would have given into temptation and lived out every one of their fantasies. The night was magical, life-changing. But would the magic last when daybreak—and Elliott—arrived early the next morning…

Jennifer LaBrecque uses one of my favorite storylines - hero in love with best friend's fiancee/girlfriend/whatever - and sets it on fire. It starts out with a really hot fantasy that Tawny is having - about Simon. But see, Tawny is engaged to Simon's best friend Elliott, so she should not be having fantasies about another man. She is engaged. But still, she finds herself majorly attracted to Simon. A moody photographer who cannot stand her. Or at least that's what he's lead her to believe. But Simon is actually completely captivated by the lovely and outspoken Tawny, however Simon is an honorable man, and would never act on his feelings, even when his best friend admits to cheating on his fiancee. However Tawny makes it completely clear that she is not interested in any form of revenge, but she would like to work on getting her attraction to Simon out of her system. Fortunately for her, Simon gives in and the result is an explosive night together that never one is able to walk away from.

OMG, I loved this story! I have re-read it at least once a month since I bought it, and still feel that tingly little sigh go through me when Tawny and Simon hook up. So I probably shouldn't be singing the praises of a story where an engaged woman has sex with her fiance's best friend - so many rules! - but Jennifer LaBrecque solves this dilemma by creating very realistic circumstances between them. 1). Tawny is already having doubts about her engagement - her fiancee spends more time criticizing her than he does supporting her 2). Tawny has been fighting her attraction to Simon right from the beginning and believes he hates her, so she tries to keep as far away from him as possible 3). Simon has also tried to stay away from Tawny, not willing to jeopardize his friendship, so we know he's honorable, however his best friend puts him in the inenviable position of telling Tawny about his (Elliott's) transgressions 4). Tawny and Simon don't sleep together until after Tawny finds out about Elliott's affair, and she has ended the engagement, for good. 5). Simon is actually in love with Tawny but refuses to tell her because she couldn't possibly want him.

But she does! And who wouldn't? He's sexy, brooding, has an irresistible accent, and is totally in love with her and wants her more than he wants to breathe, yet for all that, he's not creepy or anti-social or having delusions. Any man who loves a woman's curves and hates the idea of being with a bony stick gets a gold star in my book - he sees her real beauty. I'd trade places with Tawny in a heartbeat, but I'm not a character in a romance novel, I just play one in my head...

had been encouraged by many people with similar reading tastes to read Eloisa James' Four Sisters series. So after some procrastination, I finally did this week. I am very anal about starting at the beginning of a series, so I waited until I could find "Much Ado About You" at the bookstore. Then I picked up the following books, "Kiss Me, Annabell" and the recently released "The Taming of the Duke". I'll give the synopsis for each book, then explain my reaction to each book.




When you're the oldest daughter, you don't get to have any fun!
Witty, orphaned Tess Essex faces her duty: marry well and marry quickly, so she can arrange matches for her three sisters—beautiful Annabel, romantic Imogen and practical Josie. After all, right now they're under the rather awkward guardianship of the perpetually tipsy Duke of Holbrook. But just when she begins to think that all might end well, one of her sisters bolts with a horse-mad young lord, and her own fiancé just plain runs away.
Which leaves Tess contemplating marriage to the sort of man she wishes to avoid—one of London's most infamous rakes. Lucius Felton is a rogue whose own mother considers him irredeemable! He's delicious, Annabel points out. And he's rich, Josie notes. But although Tess finally consents to marry him, it may be for the worst reason of all. Absurd as she knows it to be, she may have fallen utterly in love…

I loved this story; it really set the tone for the series. Tess is a smart woman, looking out for her sisters and making sure they never have to worry about money again. They all grew up virtually counting every penny (or whatever the English counted back then). We also meet her younger sisters, each very different and noticeable in their own way. Since the series is called "Four Sisters", we already know each one is going to have her own story, and therefore the behavior of each is noted carefully.

Sent to live with their guardian when their father unexpectedly passes away, the girls are greeted by Raphael Jourdain, Duke of Holbrook, who was not prepared for 4 grown ladies. In his mind he was picturing 4 young girls, still in the nursery. But the Duke is not one to split hairs, and he adapts rather quickly to the change in plans. Of course he never thought when he agreed to be a guardian that he would actually end up with the duty, so he does flounder throughout the whole business, but with a constant drink in hand, the details become one big hazy vision that does not perturb him overmuch.

Lucius Felton, not titled but obscenely rich, is a wonderful match for Tess. He notices her beauty, true, but then her other sisters are quiet beautiful as well. Tess is also smart, and rather practical, and very protective of her younger siblings. He also knows that for the first time, maybe ever, his money cannot buy him what he wants, what he needs. It isn't until he lets himself be vulnerable to his new bride that he gains his heart's desire..... Romantic, sensual, beautiful. This is what I love in a story. I could not wait to read more.



The RULES OF MARRIAGE...according to Miss Annabel Essex
A husband must be:
RICH.
Make that very rich. She's had enough of leaky roofs and thread-worn clothing.
ENGLISH.
London is the center of the civilized world, and Annabel has a passion for silk and hot water.
AMIABLE. Good-looking would be nice, but not necessary. Same for intelligent.
Isn't she lucky? She's found just the man! And her chosen spouse is nothing like the impoverished Scottish Earl of Ardmore, who has nothing but his gorgeous eyes, his brain -- and his kisses -- to recommend him.
So what cruel twist of fate put her in a carriage on her way to Scotland with just that impoverished earl and all the world thinking they're man and wife? Sleeping in the same bed? Not to mention the game of words started by the earl -- in which the prize is a kiss. And the forfeit...
Well. They are almost married, after all!

Annabell is the sister who uses her looks to get what she wants, but she is not completely mercenary. Having grown up as the one in charge of her family's finances, Annabell knows what it's like to watch every shilling, feels the frustration of a father who cares more for his horses than for his daughters, and decides at a young age that she will only marry for money. Relying on her God-given beauty, Annabell sets out to find a wealthy husband, one who will appreciate her beauty and her love of beautiful things. But she is also a bit of a rebel, and while she realizes that some of her tendencies are looked upon with disapproval, she is not willing to let any man completely control her. She wants her future husband to know that while she will be the perfect wife, she will not be a complete doormat.

When she is involved in a scandal, she must marry right away, but instead of the rich man she always imagined, Annabell is to marry a Scottish earl who is said to not have a penny to his name and has come to London to find a wealthy bride.

Ewan Poley, Earl of Ardmore, is captivated by the lovely Annabell, and by her practical goal to marry a rich man. When she refuses his overtures, he decides she's not worth the trouble and sets his sights on another suitable female. But then the aforementioned scandal happens, and both are resigned to a marriage between them. Ewan is not altogether unhappy with the match - he is attracted to the blonde beauty and is glad of her own Scottish background which indicates she has more mettle than the majority of the delicate females of the ton. Now he must convince his bride that he did not marry her for her beauty, and that she alone can cause him to lose his temper and damn his soul, over and over, for her, the keeper of his heart.

Again, a wonderful story. Annabell may be beautiful, but she is not completely shallow. She's had to live with the stigma of being beautiful, (a problem some of us wouldn't mind having!) and wondering if her husband truly loves her for herself or her looks. Ewan may be a religious man, but he has never truly been tempted to stray from his beliefs, and his relationship with Annabell tests his faith and shows him just how human he really is. Love is not a safe emotion, but rather an all-consuming passion that turns their lives, and their expectations, upside down until they realize just how important an emotion it is and that it is worth fighting for. James expertly handles their conflict, making each obstacle realistic and strong enough, and the doubts Ewan and Annabell have are legitimate and need to be addressed before they can make their relationship work. Also, I loved how James had Annabell and Ewan get to "know each" other, both physically and emotionally. It was a delightful way to bring them together and she draws out the sexual tension between the two so well that when they finally do make love, it is as emotional as it is physical. Another keeper...




Imogen, Lady Maitland, has decided to dance on the wild side. After all, she's in the delicious position of being able to take a lover. A discreet male who knows just when to leave in the morning.
But Lady Maitland is still under the watchful eye of her former guardian, the wildly untamed Rafe, the Duke of Holbrook. He believes she is still in need of a "watchdog." She laughs at the idea that someone so insufferably lazy and devoted to drink can demand that she behave with propriety.
It's Rafe's long-lost brother, a man who looks precisely like the duke but with none of his degenerate edge, who interests Imogen. To Imogen, he's the shadow duke...the man who really should hold the title. But when Imogen agrees to accompany Gabe to a masquerade...whose masked eyes watch her with that intense look of desire? Who exactly is she dancing with? The duke or the shadow duke? Rafe...or Gabe?

Okay, this is the story that has me, and apparently many other readers, conflicted. We have known Rafe and Imogen since the first book. Imogen had impetuously married her first love only to lose him 2 short weeks after the wedding. She is a passionate creature interested mostly in her own needs and wants, not giving a damn who she hurts in the process. But Imogen evolves from the first book, even through the third book, and I actually started to like her. She has realized how her behavior has hurt other people, and comes to terms with the loss of her husband and her supposed role in his death. Now I probably wouldn't like Imogen at all if I didn't already know she was going to have her HEA with Rafe (this information was gleened at some of the blogs I visit).

We have seen Rafe as a drunkard, always having a glass of alcohol in his hand, no matter the hour. He has let his looks go; has a paunch, unruly hair, and clothes that have seen better days. But he cares deeply his wards, and takes his responsibilities rather seriously. We even see glimpses of his strong reaction to Imogen in "Kiss Me, Annabell", which he may not fully understand other than to know that she has the power to drive him to a rage. What we see is a man who gets irrational whenever Imogen intimates that is she about to take a lover, and cares not a bit about her scandalous reputation. Rafe is beside himself trying to save her from her destructive behavior, until one day he feels desire for her, a reaction he has not felt in years.

Another reason has him giving up alcohol for good, though it is not without struggle and suffering. Rafe is slowly coming back to life, and realizing that he suddenly wants to marry. But he has competition in the form of his brother Gabe, who looks like him but is much more appealing and worthy, in Imogen's mind. Events lead to Rafe disguising himself as Gabe, with Imogen none the wiser, or we are lead to believe anyway, as he sets about seductively courting his future bride, a contrary woman who has no desire to marry, him or anyone else for that matter.

Again I will mention that I knew Rafe and Imogen were going to end up together before I started this series, so I waited with bated breath, carefully reading each exchange between the two of them, interpreting each gesture, each fit of rage, each brief and lingering glance, as part of the dance that would lead to their HEA. The expectation was set on high but I was not worried because I thoroughly enjoyed the first two stories and had no doubt that Eloisa James would pull it off a third time. Well, yeah, she did. She peppered the story, especially the 3rd half of the book, with clues to answer the numerous questions readers had while reading "TTOTD". I was a bit slow on the uptake, but after going back and re-reading, I felt that most of my issues were addressed, albeit in a subtle fashion (sometimes I prefer the glaringly obvious). But what bothered me, no, really, really annoyed me, was the lack of a pay-off. I felt short-changed. Yes, Imogen and Rafe admit their love, and she accepts his proposal. But where is the rest of it? I felt like at least a page, if not more, was missing from the ending. They had been through so much, together and apart, that I felt there should have definitely been "more". Something that would have put my mind at rest and made me feel both Imogen and Rafe finally found peace when they found each other. I'm not bashing the book or the author, I just felt like something was missing - like the frosting off the cake.

Apparently I am not the only one who felt this way. Amazon.com had several unhappy reviews, and Eloisa James herself has spoiler bulletins at her own website as well as at the Avon Authors' board to explain the ending. Last I heard, another chapter was going to be written or more detail was going to be provided in the fourth book, Josie's story. Since Josie is my favorite sister, I do plan on reading it. We will wait and see, because overall, I like James' writing and I truly do want to find out who Josie ends up with as her (hopefully) deserving hero....could it be Mayne?

Okay, not gonna happen. I am totally uncoordinated in fashion, hairstyle, and grace. Not to mention the fact that I am deathly afraid of heights, have a extremely low tolerance for pain, and have absolutely no clue how to shoot a gun.

But a girl can dream, can't she?????

Hey look, Charlize Theron (as Aeon Flux) has ultra-cool hair, mega-cool clothes, and looks just about flawless in direct sunlight.....bless those make-up artists.....



...AND she's an independent woman who can take care of herself....she'll watch her own back...



...and she can pull off the trendy hairstyle - not just any ole chick can "work it" so effectively with this modern, sleek look. 'Course it does help that she's kinda ...okay, really pretty.



You can tell that Milla Jovovich totally loves her work.....



While Uma Thurman really loves her weapons.....




...and still looks damn good even when chasing the bad guys. Again, props to the make-up people on this effect - sunlight becomes her....



And these chicks get their guy....unless he's really not a good guy, but hey, it's Gerard Butler, hottie extraordaire, and I don't see Angelina (as Lara Croft) complaining....would you???



But why would she complain? She's mega-rich, has a cool ride and gets to play with all kinds of fun gadgets, some of them inanimate....



Kate Beckinsale (Selene from Underworld & Underworld Evolution) knows how to take care of any situation....she doesn't need a man to protect her...



...and she still finds time for a little romance. Talk about multi-tasking.....




And hey, kick-ass chicks can actually be happy, well-adjusted, and wear pastels....Sarah Michelle Gellar is robot Buffy....



....but she gets serious when the need (or the dead) rises. Will the real Buffy please stand up?



Look at that wicked blade. I bet she means business. Word of warning: don't mess with this chick....she has a Spike with her at all times.....



And you just gotta love a girl who still makes time for the love of her life.....nothing quite as irresistible as a fallen Angel....


So, yeah, someday when I grow up, I wanna be a bad-ass chick. How 'bout you?

Okay, I'm lazy today because usually I don't like to do this blogthings, but I liked the picture and the description, though the only part I'd agree with is the whole moody angle, okay, and okay, yeah, the weird ways. Here I am - just fascinating, isn't it???

Your Personality Profile

You are dependable, popular, and observant. Deep and thoughtful, you are prone to moodiness. In fact, your emotions tend to influence everything you do. You are unique, creative, and expressive. You don't mind waving your freak flag every once and a while. And lucky for you, most people find your weird ways charming!

I saw this link today - Lori Foster and Dianne Castell will be collecting donations (at their June get-together) for care packages to send to the troops. If anyone is interested in helping, you can go here, or please feel free to contact me. Every little bit helps, whether it's an inspirational card/letter, a stack of magazines, or a bag of hard candy - just a little something to let the troops know they are not forgotten; something to show that we are still thinking of them everyday and care about their well-being. I thank God everyday that we have such heroes in the world. It takes an unselfish person to sacrifice their lives like they are doing, and at the very least they deserve to be remembered.

Please don't forget to say a prayer tonight for those serving somewhere out there in the world. If it wasn't for them, we would not be at home, safe in our beds with our loved ones while enjoying our creature comforts and reading a good book or watching "American Idol" and "Grey's Anatomy", sipping wine and enjoying a bubblebath or a soak in the hot tub.

***Click here for an intimate story told in pictures of the war in Iraq***

4/10/06: UPDATE: Here are some other links regarding the troops you might find interesting:

http://www.familiesunitedmission.com/docs/signup_new/individual.shtml

And if you'd like to find locations that are looking to receive care packages, you can go here:

http://anysoldier.com/WhereToSend/

Okay, I make no secret of the fact that I am a huge fan of Lucy Monroe. Emotional intensity is a really important part of my reading experience, and Lucy is an incredible storyteller who mixes romance, sensuality, and spirituality into each and every one of her books. She also gives so much back to readers with her positive attitude and passion for the work that she does. She is rather prolific, so don't be surprised to find that among her books are titles from the Harlequin Presents line, Kensington Brava and Zebra, Berkley Sensation. In addition, one book I am eagerly anticipating is her first contemporary paranormal, which is to be released in December 2006. Look here for more details......

Anyway, I decided when I set up this blog that I was going to have a few contests because I have been extremely fortunate as a reader to not only meet some of my favorite writers, but to also get the opportunity to review their books. And since what goes around comes around, I decided to have a contest to win a copy of "Willing". (Please keep in mind it is book 2 in a trilogy and while it does stand on its own, it's so much better read in order). Check out her website and the cool flash movie that goes along with it.

Soooo, how do you win? Well, it's going to be a random drawing, but I thought I'd get some feedback from you. What I am requesting is that you give me the name of a book and the author for a story that touched you. Maybe it made you cry. Maybe it stayed with you for days. Maybe you dreamed about being the heroine. Whatever. It doesn't have to be your favorite book, it just has to be a story that got a strong reaction out of you. I would also like a quick sentence as to why it affected you. Why, you ask? Well, because I might really like to read that story. So share your story with me, and enter to win a copy of the excellent story, "Willing".

If you have already been lucky enough to read "Willing" when it first came out, I also have an extra copy of Edwina Columbia's "Mistress in Training".

For those of you who may not have met Eddie, she was at Lori Foster's reader/writer get-together last June and was an absolutely delightful person to chat with - very friendly and entertaining. I am so excited for her because I feel like a met a friend that day and to see her dream become a reality is just so much fun (more books, more books!) The romance-writing community is very lucky to have her as one of their own. I am really looking forward to her next story, and I believe I already know what it is ;)

So there you have it - two chances to win. I will pick a winner on Wednesday, April 12th, from those who participate, and will do my best to mail it out by Good Friday. Oh, and this contest is not limited to just those in the U.S. So please, share a favorite story with me, and take the chance to win not just one, but two wonderful stories. As readers, you can't possibly convince me that you have enough books in your tbr pile :)

4/12/06: Update! I have the winners :) They are, for "Willing": Dannyfiredragon! And for a copy of "Mistress in Training": Lidia! I would also like to say a huge "thank you" to the fabulous and gracious Lucy Monroe and the funny and entertaining Eddie Columbia for writing such wonderful books - they make me want to share :)

Everyone, thanx for playing, and stay tuned for future contests!

During my reading journey, I have been lucky enough to meet some of my favorite authors over the last few years. One of them is Dianne Castell, who has written such wonderful stories as the "Forty and Fabulous" series: "Fabulous Wife", "Fabulous Husband", and "Fabulous Wedding". One thing I've learned about Dianne is that she is just as genuine and as spunky as her stories. This sweet and sassy lady took the time to answer some of my questions, and respond in her unique "Dianne" way. You just gotta love her and her fun outlook on life. And if you've never read a book by Dianne Castell, you are in for a treat. Her stories are sexy, funny, and full of life. Here she is to talk a little bit about a day in her life....


SA: Dianne, your 40 and Fabulous series deals with love, romance and sex for those not in their 20's anymore. I think it was a very empowering message, one that is extremely positive. Do you see more authors writing similar stories, and how do you feel about reading stories involving older characters? Do you think younger readers can relate to these stories?

Dianne: I love writing characters of all ages. In my Brava series the dad, Rory, is 52 and has a baby daughter and is involved with a 38 year old gal.
In the last of this series, I'll Be Seeing U, the hero is 33 and the heroine is 40.
Love is blind to age and people of all ages fall in love. What fun stories, and I so enjoy writing them!

SA: Peeps, an obsession. Or maybe it's a love story. How long have they been a part of your life and how are they served best?

Dianne: Best served stale!!!! I've loved Peeps since I snitched them from my kids' Easter baskets when the kids were little. It's a fast sugar high. What could be better. Beats carrots by a mile! :-) and they come in colors! Gotta love the colors!

SA: What is it with you and Maypoles anyway????

Dianne: the maypole is this big pole in my back yard that's draped in ribbons and when I'm in a good mood I dance and swing on it in my pink cowboy hat and sing Toby Keith songs. (SA: I adore Toby Keith!) It makes me happy. You'll have to come over sometime! :-) We'll eat peeps together! (SA: Dianne, I am sooo there!)

SA: You are an animal lover and have even included them in your stories. How do you feel about reading a story with animals, and what makes them so special? I know your cat Pixie has a special place in your heart - have you/would you include him in one of your stories?

Dianne: In The Way U Look Tonight (Brava) I have a stray cat that the heroine finds, I named the cat Dusty after Judy F's cat who passed away last year. (Note: Judy F. is a special person and a dear friend whom we all adore. She posts regularly at the Scamps and Vamps group. Dianne, what a touching tribute). The O'Fallons (the family in the Brava series) has a big yellow mut dog named Max. He gets shot saving the baby. I loooove animals. I think all romance readers love animals...we are a loving and kind bunch of people! (Amen, sister!)

SA: How does your family feel about your writing, and what do you think of those people who call romance novels the devil's work?

Dianne: My family loves that I write romance. They are artsy-fartsy and have never fit into a mold and don't expect me to either. My kids skip the sex scenes when they read my books. They are of the belief that the stork brought them! :-)

SA: Who are some of your favorite authors? Which ones got you interested in writing, and inspire(d) you?

Dianne: Janet Evanovich is one of my fav authors because she makes me laugh out loud. I loooove to laugh. I love Lori Foster for her books and the terrific friend she is to me. I owe her a lot! I truly love the gals on the Scamps and Vamps loop! Not only are they wonderful authors they are also great friends.

SA: You adore country singer Alan Jackson, carrying his cut-out whenever there's a booksigning. What qualities do you like about Alan? What other men do you admire and why? What qualities do you look for in your heroes? What qualities do you admire in your dh?

Dianne: Alan is a genuine guy. I don't think I've heard anything bad about him and that matters to me. I really hate jerks! Guys who think they are God's gift to mankind or womankind make me ill. There's that old question who'd you like to be on a deserted island with? For me that would be my dh. He's one of those guys who always save the day. Give him a pocket knife and he's carve a boat and get us off that island! My heroes are like that...resourceful, fun, smart.

SA: The romance industry seems like a very supportive community. How did you get your start in the business? What goals have you set for yourself and your writing?

Dianne: Goals...get the next book done! :-)
I got into writing because I looooove reading romance so I thought...why not? I've been thinking up stories all my life now I get to write hot sexy ones and meet all you wonderful readers along the way. What a terrific job!!

SA: From your website you indicate you enjoy gardening (me, too). What other things do you enjoy doing when you're not writing? What gets you motivated and excited to face each day?

Dianne: I love to get in my car, crank back the sunroof, turn on the country western station and sing at the top of my lungs. Too bad it scares the poop out of other drivers. :-)

SA: Who are some of your favorite authors? When you manage to find a few free moments, what are you currently reading?

Dianne: I'm reading Shiloh Walker's books right now. Very hot!! (SA: I'll say! I love Shiloh's books too. Her Hunter series is awesome!) Plus I love Shi. What a neat gal!

SA: What would you like your readers to know about you? What are your hot buttons, meaning the topics you love to talk about?

Hot buttons...sexy older cowboys. I can't do the young studs 'cause I have a son that age. I love going to the movies and talking movies! What's good, what's bad. I love the theater. We're going to see Wicked and I'm so excited. Think I'll paint my face green...and sing more county western songs!

SA: If you weren't writing, what would you be doing?

Dianne: Going nuts. I honestly cannot imagine not writing. I have no idea what I would do. I'll be dreaming up stories till I kick the bucket!

SA: You love "Desperate Housewives", and you were lucky enough to meet James Denton. What other guilty pleasures will you admit to?

Dianne: Eating junk food. I really love junk food. Give me a Coke and chocolate cake and I'm in hog heaven. I like driving fast...have the tickets to prove it. I loooove to shop. I love to redecorate my home and make it pretty. Having a pretty house is important to me. My house isn't big but it looks nice...except for my office. We will not talk about my office. UGH!

Stacy: Thanx Dianne! You're a peach :)

Dianne: Honey, you are the peach! I am honored to know you. What a terrific friend you are. Hug! D

(SA::blushing profusely:: Right back atcha, Dianne!)

This book is installment #7 in Alison Kent's exciting SG-5 series. In "Deep Breath" we meet Georgia McLain, a treasure hunter who has a talent for finding valuable items that others are willing to pay big bucks to obtain and possess. This time around, the coveted item is more personal, tied to her late father and Georgia is determined that no one but her is going to get their hands on it. She's got too much to lose, and too many unanswered questions.

Georgia is convinced no one but her knows the whereabouts of this historical document, but she should have known better. Another, more dangerous treasure hunter known for his merciless methods has been following her, and when Georgia and her brother Finn stop for a bite to eat at a roadside diner, he barges in with his goons and gives Georgia an ultimatum: she has three days to locate and deliver the document back to the diner, otherwise her beloved brother will die.

Tagging along for the ride is Harry Van Zandt, whom Georgia thinks just happened to have been at the wrong place at the wrong time when she sees him in the diner, but he's actually an SG-5 operative working on his own mission. All Georgia knows is that her new sexy partner makes her mouth water and that distracting fact is keeping her from focusing on getting the job done. But she refuses to let anything happen to her brother, the only family she has left, so she sucks it up and does what needs to get done in order to save Finn and the other innocent bystanders caught in the crossfire.

It just so happens Harry is also looking to recover the same document for the Smithson Group, only now, Georgia's mission has become top priority for the moment. He is caught off-guard by this beautiful and brave woman, amazed at how strong she is when faced with a dangerous situation. Georgia is unlike any woman he's ever met, not caught up in all the female trappings or clamoring to find domestic bliss. Instead she is a woman without real roots, who travels with little baggage, and who fascinates and infuriates the hell out of him. Helping her becomes his mission, falling for her becomes inevitable.....

I have been a long-time fan of Alison Kent's stories, starting with her Blaze books - such as the gEAR gIRL series - and I love how I can be going along, reading one of her stories, when all of a sudden she catches me off-guard with what happens next. Just when I think I have it all figured out, Kent veers off in another, more interesting direction and keeps me locked into the story. This one is no different. I might think I know exactly how Georgia is going to react, or believe I know what to expect around the next corner, only end up being surprised. I love the SG-5 series, and while the book can be read on its own, I would suggest reading the previous stories for a lot of the background, especially for characters making a return engagement. You will not be disappointed. "Deep Breath" will leave you wanting more. More action. More passion. And more SG-5 operatives.