|
|
Monday, October 30, 2006:
Eddie Columbia in Training
 Some of you might remember that Edwina " Eddie" Columbia first came on the scene as an aspiring writer, which is how I met her during the summer of 2005 at Lori Foster's & Dianne Castell's Get-Together. She immediately puts people at ease with her friendly personality and wonderfully wicked sense of humor. When I heard she was going to be published, I was pretty excited for her. She's a wonderful person and I just love her writing. I'm seriously anxious for the next installment. (Chop, chop Eddie *g*) Awhile back I interviewed the very funny and interesting Eddie, and now I'm finally posting what we talked about. Sorry, Eddie, for taking so long! ********** SA: "Mistress in Training" is your first published book. How long did it take you to get published, and how does it feel now that your "baby" is out there for all the world to see?
Although I've been an avid reader of romance since my early twenties, I didn’t start writing until about six years ago. After bending the ears of my friends with a story that kept rolling around in my head (the main characters, Lady Edwina and her knight in shining armor, Sir Geoffrey, after hubby, Jeff, of course) I guess everyone got sick of hearing about it and I was advised, none to gently, to put butt in chair and write the darn thing already.
Hence, the story of my heart, Armored Heart, was born. Still sitting "under the bed" I might add, since I knew squat about writing at the time. Didn’t know a POV from an SOB. But hey, I wrote a book!
Then the learning process began and several books later, "Mistress in Training" made an appearance.
As to how I feel -- Excited, happy, privileged, scared. I think when you're newly published you run the entire emotional gamut. But mostly I feel privileged, and blessed that my 95 year-old mother is still here to share in the joy of my getting a book published.
And for anyone wondering, yes, she did read it.
SA: What was your inspiration for "Mistress in Training"?
I started out dabbling in Time Travels only to learn there wasn’t a strong market for them at the time, so it seemed a natural progression to ease into straight historicals. My objective was to write a book with a good balance of steamy love scenes and plot, incorporating my love of majorly alpha males and feisty heroines. A brand of "Sophisticated Sensuality" was what I was shooting for.
SA: Tell us about your WIP (work-in-progress). Isn't this a sequel to "MIT"?
Yes, "Hellion in Taming," is the next book in what I hope to make a three-book series. In this book, Amanda Beaumont, Amelia’s gambling, gun-toting cousin comes to England for a visit. The book will also include some interesting twists and turns I hope the readers will enjoy.
SA: Who, or what inspired you to write? Did you read one of Erin's (McCarthy) books and think "I could do better than this?" LOL. Just kidding. I adore Erin and her stories. She is fabulous.
You are too funny!
Yes, Erin is FABULOUS! And I would be lying to say she hasn’t been an inspiration to me in many things throughout the last few years, but I didn’t have the pleasure of knowing her when I first started writing.
Truthfully, I think my inspiration was a culmination of all the wonderful books and the authors who wrote them that I’d read throughout the years. The ones that made me laugh, cry, and sigh, and especially those "page turners" that had me staying up all night, even when I had to work the next day. My greatest dream was to someday be listed among their ranks. I’m hoping "Mistress in Training" is the first step on that path.
SA: Do you have a critique partner or do you go it alone? And do you revise as you go along or write the story then go back and revise?
Yes, I do belong to a wonderful, outstanding critique group. Most of us have been together for years, adding a new member or two along the way. My personal writing preference is to do some editing along the way. I need things ironed out fairly smoothly as I go along. I don’t plot, so I’m what they call a "pantser" or seat-of-the-pants writer, so I need things fairly solidified in my mind before I move on. That’s not to say I don’t go back and change if one of my characters decides to take off in another direction and throw me into a tailspin.
Then once the book is done I go back and edit the whole thing and then get a fresh pair of eyes or two to go over it and find anything I might have missed.
SA: What was the first romance you ever read, and how old were you (If you don't mind my asking)?
Yikes! You expect me to remember back that far! LOL Lucky for you it’s the short-term memory that’s going and not the long-term. Actually, I was in my early twenties. (Around the time when the first Star Wars came out.)
Actually, it wasn’t the first book that got me hooked, because I didn’t especially like it all that much, probably because it didn’t have enough romance. But here are a few books that I cut my teeth on and from then on, I was caught, hook, line and sinker….
Kathleen E. Woodiwiss - " The Flame and the Flower", " The Wolf and the Dove", " Shanna". Rosemary Rogers – " the Crowd Pleasers". Bertrice Small, " The Kadin". The Kadin was especially memorable. Bertrice’s books back then would not be PC now, but they certainly were the taste of the forbidden back then. I still remember the scene in the harem with the horse’s tails! Uhummm, back to the questions…… (Hey wait! I want to hear this!)
SA: How did you find out about "MIT" getting accepted? How did you react, and what did you do to celebrate?
How I found out was I got, "The Call," as we say in the publishing world. As an aspiring author, I don't think a day goes by when you don't think about it, dream about it, talk about it, rehearse what you’ll say. Something cool, sophisticated, business-like to impress the caller. Not …. "Get outta town! I can't believe you're buying it. I really thought it was going to be too hot for you" Then, while you’re mentally wishing you were bent over behind the cocked, back leg of a mule and someone had duct taped your mouth, the person on the other end starts laughing. (Um, okay. Whatever floats your boat(?))
Moving right along now….
Ahhhh, the celebration part. That was almost better than the call. After the shock wore off, I told my husband. Then after much excited hugging and kissing, and a few snoopy dances, we grabbed a bottle of iced wine we’d been saving for a special occasion and headed for the Jacuzzi. Sorry, the rest of that story is censored. (Spoil sport!)
SA: What are you currently reading, and how do you find the time? Do you think your writing affects how you read?
Coincidentally enough, I just finished reading a fun, great book, " High Stakes," by my buddy, Erin McCarthy. If you haven’t already read it, I would suggest picking it up. It’s the best sexy vampire fun I’ve ever had. (I did read it, and I loved it. Erin's my girl).
I’m in the habit of reading for at least a half-hour to an hour every night before I go to sleep. Lucky for me, once my husband goes to sleep, my having the light on rarely bothers him. Could be he’s just gotten use to it after all these years.
To answer the question about how writing now affects my reading, I have to honestly say that unfortunately, it does. It’s hard not to get caught up in the mechanics of writing when you’re doing it every day. So I especially appreciate coming across a book that keeps me so enthralled, it doesn’t matter if there were twenty point of views, or if there were a hundred typos.
But the one thing I have learned, because free time is so precious to me now, is that if I don’t get invested in a book right from the start, I’ll pass it along to someone it might interest and pick up another.
SA: Do you see yourself writing contemporaries, paranormals or any other genre?
Does the name, " Sybil," mean anything to you???? Yes, yes, yes, and yes. I actually had what I called my " Sybil-period" last year and started writing in all those genre’s. Rather than consider it a waste of time, I learned I could and was actually comfortable writing in all those different genres. Whether I’m good at it or not, I hope to find out in the future as my hope is to either write for more than one house, or find one who will let me stretch my wings in different areas. SA: What is your writing ritual and where is your writing "nook", or can you write just about anywhere?
I have a laptop, which also doubles as my home computer, so I’m pretty mobile. I can write just about anywhere. I even take it to our local Borders if we happen to go there for our weekly "date night" and type while Jeff reads.
I also just purchased this really nifty portable typing stand for my laptop, which allows me to sit just about anywhere, even lounge on the couch while I type.
But most times I can be found in my beautiful, Victorian-influenced bedroom/turned office. It’s light, airy and my husband just built me the most awesome custom furniture for it.
SA: Who do you picture when you think of your characters Julia and Brandon?
Hmmm, I hadn’t really thought about it, but if I had to pick, I think Pierce Brosnon (after a few months in the gym) for Brandon and perhaps a young Jane Seymour for Julia.
SA: Fun stuff: fave movie/fave book/fave comfort food? What hottie (actor/singer, etc) rocks your world?
This is hard for me as I’m one of those people who really have a broad appreciation of movies and music. I’m a sucker for chick flicks, but really love action movies. But I would have to say my all time favorite movie would be the 1979 Dracula with Frank Langella. I’ve been a Drac fan way before it became vogue for romance novels. I think it’s the whole dark, dangerous, alpha male, sexy thing.
As far as books, I don’t think I could pick a favorite if my life depended on it. There are tons I’ve really enjoyed, but I’m not one to re-read a book as I’m always looking for the next great new one out there.
Favorite Food…. I’m sorta a closet gourmet (at least I like to think so), so I love to dabble in elaborate, fancy foods of any type. I have a fresh herb garden just outside my kitchen door. I love to do fancy dinner parties and am not afraid to experiment on people. But my favorite comfort food would have to be Chocolate. Maybe because it’s so darn good and versatile, too!
Favorite Actor – okay, Stacy, this is where you hit the jackpot! Unequivocally, Thorsten Kaye, aka Zach Slater on "All My Children". If there were a Hero College, he’d be Fantasy 101. I even have a picture of him as my computer background. He doesn’t just rock my world, he totally blows it apart. Good thing I’m not married to a jealous man, right? Especially, since I also have a picture of Thorsten hanging up behind my computer at home. (Does the name "Patrick Thornhart" mean anything to you??? My God people, this man is a god!)  SA: What is the most unusual thing or interesting thing you've discovered about the industry?
I think that what amazes me the most about the industry is that in spite of the adversity or maybe because of it, so many who have made it to the top are so generous and giving to share what they’ve learned along the way with those just getting started. I think there’s a saying something like... "The flower that blooms in adversity is the most precious of them all." (I’m paraphrasing here). Well, if that is true, then the romance writer’s community has the most abundantly beautiful garden I’ve ever had the good fortune to walk through. From hearts of gold, precious, everlasting friendships are forged.
SA: How has been your family's and friends' response to your writing? Have strangers come up to you and given their opinion(s)?
Truthfully, it has been overwhelmingly positive. Sometimes I wonder who is more excited about my getting published, me or my family and friends.
I try to respect other people's beliefs and not judge them, and appreciate being extended the same courtesy. No two people are alike, that's what makes us such interesting creatures.
When someone makes a comment about the level of sensuality in my books, I say, "Romance novels are like relationships...some are just steamer than others." I don't feel the need to make excuses for my writing, because I'm not ashamed of what I write. In my opinion sensuality and affection are a healthy part of any good relationship. I feel very fortunate to have come from a very demonstrative and supportive family. My children were raised that way and I'm quite sure they will raise their children the same way.
SA: If you could be in an anthology with 2-3 other authors, which ones would be your dream authors?
Gosh, I don’t know. That would be like asking a mother to pick her favorite child. There are so many great writers out there. I guess I would just have to leave it up to the publishing house that invites me to do one to know who I would best fit in with.
******* Thanx Eddie! It was truly a pleasure. Speaking of which....here's for you ;)
posted by Stacy~ at 10/30/2006 06:36:00 PM
|
 
Happy birthday, little brother
Speaking of birthdays, today is one of my brother's birthdays. Darin is the middle child (I'm the oldest) and we were born one year and 19 days apart. My parents were born 19 days apart. I just think that's kinda cool. So Darin is somewhere out there, celebrating I would guess. He moved to Arizona from Minnesota years ago, and we haven't heard from him since. He still keeps in touch with some friends, who usually let my mom know what he's up to, so we know he's still alive. Last I'd heard, he was a roadie for Metallica, which must be the closest thing to his dream job. Good for him. He and I have always butted heads. I was always the "good kid", the one who never got in trouble in school and who, at least through the 6th grade, was the top student. For him, all he heard about was how "good" his sister was in school, and his entry into academia was rather different. He got in trouble from the first day he went to kindergarten, broke stuff, be-friended the other kids who were the got sent to detention, quietly challenged authority, and for the most part, was bored. He didn't get into fights, but he didn't really care about school. See, I was smart, but he was really, really smart. He had long hair and wore black and looked like he just rolled out of bed, but beyond all that was a brain waiting to be challenged. We didn't really have programs for gifted kids, so his intelligence pretty much lay dormant, waiting for that spark. When I was in the 8th or 9th grade, my mom had had enough of his behavior and took him to a pyschologist (this was after the couple of sessions of unsuccessful counseling the whole family went to for various reasons) and my brother was given a test, basically to profile him and tell the doctors what his problem was. Well, leave it to my brother to beat that test, in which the end results pointed to everyone else but him having a problem. Rather clever of him. The brat. So Darin, wherever you are, happy birthday. I hope you're spending it with people who care about you, and who've made you truly happy. Here's to many more. Lova ya...
posted by Stacy~ at 10/30/2006 05:20:00 AM
|
Sunday, October 29, 2006:
You can pick your friends, but they don't always pick you...
As I mentioned in an earlier post, I am my own best friend. It takes me awhile to feel comfortable enough to share my thoughts and feelings. I think it's because when I was little, I didn't have many friends. I was the ugly girl, and even at the young age of 5 or 7 or 9, kids notice those things. I had really short hair, so people used to ask my parents if me and my two brothers were "you three sons"? Especially since I wore jeans and t-shirts like they did. My mom, God bless her, used to dress me in dresses when I went to school, which meant I couldn't play outside because then I'd get all dirty, so of course, that meant I didn't really have anyone to hang out with. It's probably how I really discovered my love of reading, and I received the most gold stars for doing the most book reports LOL. I was such a geek! Anywayz, this is not about trying to make anyone feel sorry for me because of my childhood - I've long since gotten past that stage, and I am comfortable in my own skin, and have absolutely no problem being on my own at all. In fact, a lot of the time, I prefer it. Hopefully I've learned to be more sensitive to others, and not exclude others. And it wasn't all bad. I still have a lot of good memories from that time, believe it or not. Yet life still has a way of keeping us humble. I have a friend, Liz, that I've known for about 10 1/2 years. We met when she came to work for my company as a temp, and despite the fact that we were so different - she was high-maintenance, moody, saw everything in black & white, didn't easily forgive (if at all), and has terrible taste in movies - we got along very well. We even had a tendency to drool over some of the same guys, though it was the ones we saw as eye candy, not as potential boyfriends. (And she had the "sex on the desk" fantasy way before I ever did!) She soon left the temp job for a permanent position with another company, and we stayed friends. We nursed each other through broken hearts, went on vacations together, supported each other when life or work through us a curveball, and have tons of great fun and crazy "stalking" memories to our friendship. We didn't always see eye to eye - but we've always been friends. Last year was a major birthday for her, and she was a little depressed about it. I bought her some aquamarine jewelry because it was one of her favorite things, and she loved it because she didn't really have a lot of acquamarines. Well, she forgot my birthday. After a small pity party, I got over it. I knew it had been a rough year for her with a death of a close family member, changing jobs, and a major broken heart. There are worse things in the world, and she's always been there when I needed to vent or a shoulder to cry on. This year, March rolled around, and though she'd been busy with her job and we hadn't seen much of each other, I sent her a card and called her on the actual day. Well, guess what? My birthday came...and went. Not a word. I don't know whether to laugh because it is kinda funny in a twisted way, or be insulted. I'm not sure how I feel at this point. I have this image of bringing it up to her and her never talking to me again. Yeah, she's kinda like that. I think I'll give it more time, at least til the end of the year, and see if she realizes it. So, what's your advice? What would you do? I probably should be more mad than I am, but I had such a great birthday this year, which actually lasted more like a week instead of a day, and that's the one time of year I love the attention. I really do have a good life :) So maybe I should just let it go and count the blessings I do have. Life is too short to hold grudges anyway.
posted by Stacy~ at 10/29/2006 09:00:00 PM
|
I got this from Teena's blog:
Advanced Global Personality Test Results |
Take Free Advanced Global Personality Test personality tests by similarminds.com
Stability results were moderately high which suggests you are relaxed, calm, secure, and optimistic.
Orderliness results were low which suggests you are overly flexible, improvised, and fun seeking at the expense too often of reliability, work ethic, and long term accomplishment.
Extraversion results were moderately high which suggests you are, at times, overly talkative, outgoing, sociable and interacting at the expense of developing your own individual interests and internally based identity.
Basically, I'm: messy - yep disorganized - uh, yeah, same thing! not rule conscious rebellious rash weird - sometimes ambivalent about chaos - sometimes I like it, sometimes I don't likes bizarre things anti-authority not good at saving money - so not true not a perfectionist - so very true leaves many things unfinished - it's why I could never be a writer low self control - not always! strange - okay, is this test trying to tell me something??? desires more attention - not really romantic daydreamer - definitely abstract impractical unproductive - so NOT true! leisurely likes the unknown - yeah, I admit it. Your turn...
posted by Stacy~ at 10/29/2006 03:12:00 PM
|
Saturday, October 28, 2006:
I'm working one of my last days at the bookstore today (yay!) and haven't had as much time to be here, but everyone's in the Halloween spirit, so I thought I'd share some of my favorite things about Halloween. I love "The Great Pumpkin, Charlie Brown", little kids in costumes, the good Halloween candy (mostly chocolate, and absolutely NO candy corn!), Bugs Bunny's Halloween special (Hocus ca-da-braaaa), old, black & white scary movies (like Dracula with Bela Lugosi), black cats, departments at work who create haunted houses, more good candy (remember, it's all about the chocolate), and ghost tours. Have you ever gone on a ghost tour? Last year I went with a friend to Richard T. Crowe's ghost tour here in Chicago, and it really was a lot of fun, though we didn't see any spirits. I would have loved to have at least experienced a small little glimpse into the "other" world. The tour took us around the city of Chicago and to where some of the most famous murders and other events have happened. Spooky? You betcha, especially when it involves real people that I've heard about or read about for years. And if you go to the link, you get to hear some creepy music. Boo! Your turn: what do you like best about Halloween?
posted by Stacy~ at 10/28/2006 06:57:00 AM
|
Thursday, October 26, 2006:
Me? I'm boring, people! THAT'S my truth.
That brat Mailyn tagged me, and I usually don't participate in tags cuz I'm rather contrary, but I figured I'll just bore you now and get it over with, and the truth is I actually do have a bit of a soft spot for Mailyn cuz she's always doing stuff for other people even while being a badass cool chick. Yeah, yeah, yeah. Let's just get on with it already..... 1. I would consider myself to be a spiritual vs. a religious person. I totally believe in God, but organized religion? Not so much. I believe that God loves us, believes in us, and that we go on this merry-go-round more than once before going on to our Heavenly reward. Or the other place. I mean, come on. Look at how some people seem to have such a heavy burden while others are more fortunate. I know this to be true because I am one of the fortunate ones while people I know have a lot of serious stuff to deal with. I think at one time or other we all have to pass certain "tests". We all have lessons to learn, but it takes more than one lifetime. And what's in our hearts is more important than just going to church every Sunday. 2. I believe in Karma. Not in a "new-age, hippy, read the tarot cards and wear the crystals" kind of way, but in a more practical fashion. Like, if I do something bad, or vindictive, it's going to come back to bite me. Basically, what goes around comes around. Doesn't mean I'm a really great person, it just means I'm aware of what could most likely happen. So I try to be nice, even when it kills me, but I don't always succeed. 3. You can live without television. I've pretty much been doing it for 3 years, and I find I really don't miss it as much as I thought I would. Sometimes I wish I knew what all the fuss was about on shows like "Lost" and "Grey's Anatomy", but I sure don't miss all that reality t.v. 4. I am my own best friend. To me, the definition of a best friend is someone that you tell everything to, and I don't have a friend like that. What I do have are several casual friends and a few close friends who all know a lot about me, probably different things, but no one knows everything. Sometimes I feel it's like I'm more than one person : one is quiet, reserved, cautious; another is moody and outspoken with a sarcastic sense of humor; and another is funny, crazy, and full of life. Depends on who I'm hanging with. Only me (and maybe my blog) gets it all. No one person knows all my secrets. 5. Okay, I debated about saying this one cuz I usually just don't throw things out there, but what the heck. I've had this recurring fantasy about having sex in my office at work, specifically on my desk, with this guy who works in the same building. We've been friends for a long time, and I never thought of him in that way until more recently, when one day he walked by me and said "good morning" and I went hot all over. I think he knows I have a crush on him but he doesn't know my intentions LOL. Haven't gotten the nerve to tell him that. He's also quite a bit older than me and I don't think he even feels the same way about me, but I've learned age really doesn't mean anything when you're attracted to someone. Nothing may come of it anyways, but it's still a really good fantasy ;) Okay, if you're still awake, I will say "tag" to anyone who wants to play. This truth business is tough stuff!
posted by Stacy~ at 10/26/2006 06:09:00 PM
|
Wednesday, October 25, 2006:
Today I'm gonna be a bit superficial and talk about some women who I think are just really physically beautiful. Yeah, I know, usually I'm drooling over the hotties, but today it's all about the girls. Here are a few of my selections: I first saw Kate Winslet in "Titanic", and was struck by how pretty she was. One of the things I liked best about her was that she wasn't a stick figure - she had real, womanly curves. She reminded me of what I imagined a historical heroine would look like - at least my version of how they should look. She is also very elegant, but can also play really unconventional roles and be utterly convincing. Personally, I believe she is underrated as an actress. She seems like the kind of woman who could be your girlfriend, someone to hang with, go drinking, and dish about hot guys. Gotta like that. Love her or hate her for whatever reason, there is no doubt, at least in my mind, that Angelina Jolie is stunning, and rather fearless. She's a pilot with a sense of adventure, a mother who is as fierce as a lioness, and an activist who truly is trying to make the world a better place. Not everyone can say that. Regardless of what you think of her, she is someone who walks the walk and talks the talk. She just happens to be damn gorgeous while doing it. If I were to have a girl crush, Angelina would probably be it. Believe it or not, not everyone loves Meg Ryan, but I do. One of my favorite movies is with her and Kevin Kline called "French Kiss". I just adore that movie! Cast more often than not for her "perkiness", she has managed to show a depth and a dark side that not everyone wants to associate with America's sweetheart. She is also an intelligent, well-read woman, which definitely makes her even more interesting. The more I read about her, the more fascinated I become and I want to learn even more. She's not just a cute blonde. There is a bit of a rebel in her, and someone who's probably had to deal with being pretty and all the limitations that come along with that label. She can't play the girl next door forever, so I'm curious to know what she'll do next. Who do you find to be beautiful? Have you ever had a girl crush? For who? For clarification, a girl crush doesn't mean it's anything sexual, though it can, but that's not what I'm asking for. You can just find someone really beautiful or maybe you really admire what they do. Or, maybe if you had a choice, it's someone you wished you looked like. Don't be scairt. It's all in fun :)
posted by Stacy~ at 10/25/2006 05:53:00 AM
|
Monday, October 23, 2006:
The Other Guy - please check this out
A friend sent this to me: Greetings everyone: Some of you I know really well . . . some of you I have met. . . and some of you I don't even know at all. Regardless, we are all one Army. You may or may not have heard, that Cory Lidle, NY Yankee pitcher, died yesterday in a plane crash. It was a sad moment for Cory and his family and I would encourage you to keep them in your prayers. However, at the same time, there was another man on the plane. The media never mentions his name and always calls him "The Other Guy" or "Another Passenger" or "Another Man". The truth of the matter is, whether you are a famous baseball player or not, one deserves the same support and prayer as anyone else. I started a personal website at www.biop23.com/ theotherguy. html. At that website there is a hit meter to keep track of how many people visited and prayed for "The Other Guy". The goal is to get 1 million people to visit and pray for The Other Guy and his family. 1 million seems like a high number, until you think about how many people live in the world and the USA. With all the people that we know from church or work and all the people that they know and so on . . . . we can certainly reach 1 million people. After several weeks of this, I will take the tally and send the number to the family of "The Other Guy". Millions upon millions of people know about Cory, thanks to ESPN and the media. That is great and nothing is wrong with that . . . but let us not forget about The Other Guy. Once you visit the website you will see some ideas on how you can help reach that 1 million goal. This is a HUGE project and I could use your help so just don't toss this to the side. Tell people at your headquarters, people at your corps or church, people at your school, kids in your youthgroup, people at other churches. I know that I send this email to a lot of people I don't know. I also know that getting an email like this can be a pain .. . . but in the spirit of prayer I do ask that you put that aside and help in this mission. Would it not be a great Christian witness to tell a family that 1 million people prayed for them?Thanks everyone for doing this. Chuck Rowe Program Director Camp Allegheny The Salvation Army 412.394.4846 424 3rd AvePittsburgh, PA 15219 The Other Guy's name is Tyler Stanger. He was 29 yrs old with one child,and one on the way. Mr. Stanger was Cory Lidle's pilot instructor.
posted by Stacy~ at 10/23/2006 06:58:00 PM
|
"I'm In No Mood For Love" by Rachel Gibson
 Mass Market Paperback: 384 pages Publisher: Avon (September 26, 2006) Language: English ISBN: 0060773170 What is Clare Wingate doing?
One minute she's suffering in a pretty-in-pink gown she'll never wear again, and the next thing she knows it's morning . . . and she has the nastiest hangover of her life.
To make matters worse, she's wearing nothing but a spritz of Escada and lying next to Sebastian Vaughan . . . her girlhood crush turned sexy, globe-hopping journalist. Somewhere between the toast and the toss of the bouquet she'd gotten herself into a whole lot of trouble.
Clare had the right to go wild-after all, she'd been knocked off her dyed-to-match shoes after finding her own fiancé in a compromising position with the washing machine repairman. Clearly her society wedding is off.
But Sebastian pushed all the wrong buttons-and some of the right ones, too. Clare is in no mood for love-;not even for lust-and wants to forget about Sebastian and his six-pack abs ASAP. But he isn't in the mood to go away, and his kiss is impossible to forget. Now this is more like it, remniscent of earlier Gibson. And I just love this cover, I must admit. I liked this one more than "Sex, Lies, and Online Dating". Gibson definitely turned up the heat and stretched out the sexual tension until I was ready to scream. And wow, the pay-off was so worth it.
One of the things that intrigued me about this story is that the characters were different than I thought they were going to be. For starters, Clare may have been labeled the uptight, do-the-right-thing type of woman, but she also has a wild side and is somewhat defiant when it comes to dealing with her mother, right to her face. They butt heads from time to time, and Clare is not afraid of her mother as so many heroines in her position have been. See, Clare comes from money, but it's not turned into this big issue in the book, which was a huge relief. She writes romance novels, which her mother refers to as "women's fiction", and she's quite good at it. Again, with Clare and her friends, we see a glimpse into the writer's life, and I like those little slices of insight. What does make me question Clare is her engagement to a man everyone else knows is gay. Would you let a friend marry someone who obviously wasn't that into her? I don't know how I'd handle that one, especially since Clare believes she really loves Lonny.
Then there's the sexy wanderer, Sebastian Vaughan, who travels the world looking for the real story. Sebastian's father works for Clare's mother, but it's not about the servant/master relationship, thank God. Sebastian is sexy, and confident, and good at what he does, though he's getting a little tired of living on airplanes, but he's not ready to settle down yet. Life has dealt him a rather tough blow and he's decided to get in touch with his father and maybe re-establish some type of relationship after all this time.
Sebastian has been pushing Clare's buttons since they were little kids in the single digits, then they don't see each other for 20+ years, until Clare's heart is broken and she drowns her sorrows after her friend's wedding. Sebastian tells Clare they had an unforgettable night together, and wouldn't mind a repeat. Clare of course is mortified, believing she's fallen back into a pattern she hasn't worked since her twenties, yet she's not about to let Sebastian know her thoughts.
Time passes between meetings, and during that time what began as an antagonistic relationship sparks into unbelievable heat, until even Sebastian can't stop thinking about Clare. At first she tries to resist, but there's something seductive about being truly desired, so eventually Sebastian and Clare give into their strong attraction and wow, it's sizzling! Sebastian couldn't be happier when Clare doesn't want a relationship, just a friendship with benies, and Clare is relieved to know she's over her fiance and able to enjoy being involved in a strictly sexual relationship...or so she thinks.
The reader knows that any two people who can't stop thinking about each other, and a hero who keeps coming back to Clare not just for sex but because he loves her company, is going to end up together. They just haven't figured it out yet, but they will.
I loved that Sebastian read Clare's books, and loved them. I loved his growing relationship with his father. I enjoyed seeing Clare with her friends, and how they supported each other, no matter what. Oh, and there's mention of Jane from my favorite Gibson book, "See Jane Score", which I thought was cool. IINMFL was a great follow-up story to "Sex, Lies, and Online Dating", and I can't wait for Maddie's, which is up next - in 2007.
For more, you'll have to check out Jazz's review on Sanctuary's Finest. Yeah, page 182. I hear ya.
Whatcha waiting for? Go buy the book!
posted by Stacy~ at 10/23/2006 05:30:00 PM
|
Sunday, October 22, 2006:
...and won a prize. But before I tell you who that person is, here are the answers to the contest questions: "Enticed" is book # 2 in Kathleen's "En" series, and it will be released in March 2007. Now, the moment you've all been waiting for: the winner of a copy of Kathleen's story "Entangled" is.... DEVONNA! Congratulations, Devonna :) Please send me your snail mail addy, and I will try and get it out in the mail tomorrow. Thanx to everyone for participating, and remember, anyone can enter, as long as they are at least 18 years of age. Drawings are completely random, and I've had winners everywhere from California to Malaysia to Georgia. It's nice to have so many people visit my little world. You're always welcome :)
posted by Stacy~ at 10/22/2006 04:15:00 PM
|
Up-to-the-minute updates...or whatever
Okay kids, lots going on. First off, I just went back to my p/t job....and decided to quit. I plan on honoring the days they have me scheduled, so my last shift will be November 11th, and I am so excited! I love having weekends to myself, so now I'll actually have something that is supposed to resemble a life. For those of you who don't know, I work @ Barnes and Noble, in the cafe. Been there since October 2002, and it got the point that I tried to quit and they let me work one day a week. Now I just have other things going on and I don't even need the job, so I'm going to let go of my nice discount and move on. It's time. Second, I will have the drawing for Kathleen Dante's book today, just not at noon CST. See, in the confusion of going back to the p/t job, my boss told me I was working 10-6:30 for 3 Saturdays in a row, so I thought I started yesterday, when in fact I start today. Which is a Sunday. She was a little confused, and that's okay, but I'm working 10-3pm, so I will have the drawing later this afternoon, and hopefully post it no later than 6pm, depending on how my day goes. And lastly, brrrrrrrrrrrr! It's freakin' 37 degrees outside with a chance of snow, so for all you Cali girls who have 80 degree weather and want something colder, I'll trade you in a heartbeat! Oh, any song that's stuck in your head these days? I'm addicted to Fergie's "Delicious". And the one with the "funky little monkey with the tiniest ears" - Lady Sovereign - it's driving me nuts. How 'bout you?
posted by Stacy~ at 10/22/2006 08:13:00 AM
|
"Sex, Lies, and Online Dating" Rachel Gibson
Mass Market Paperback: 384 pages
Publisher: Avon (January 31, 2006)
Language: English
ISBN: 0060772913 SEX…What is it about men anyway? Bad cars, bad jobs, even bad teeth, nothing convinces them that they can’t snare a Size Two Babe with a D cup chest. And after way too many internet dates with men named “luvstick” and “Bigdaddy182”, Lucy Rothschild should know.
LIES…But sitting across from her now is hardluvman, and he seems different — sensitive, honest, and hot! He says he’s a plumber, while Lucy claims she’s a nurse! She’s really a mystery writer, dating on line while researching her next book. Hey, everyone lies a little, don’t they?
AND ONLINE DATING…But Quinn’s really an undercover cop hunting down a serial killer, and he sees Lucy as one of his top suspects. And while he could really go for this smart, sexy woman with the killer bod — if that’s the only thing “killer” about her — he knows he needs to wine and dine her and discover the truth. Hey, he realized the dating scene can be deadly — but this is ridiculous!
I've had this one in my TBR pile for quite some time, and I've been experiencing another reading slump, so I thought I'd pick this one up and see if it helped. Rachel Gibson usually can lighten my mood and make me enjoy reading again. For the most part, it worked. Quinn is one hot hero, though there were moments I wanted to bop him on the head for being such a "guy", and possibly not the sharpest knife in the drawer, but then we wouldn't have our reasons for saving the heroine, now would we? I thought Lucy was smarter than most of Gibson's heroines, and I enjoyed learning more about the writing process from her brainstorming sessions with her pals and her speech at a Women of Mystery meeting. Little tidbits like that intrigue this reader. But I felt the "oomph" was missing. Everything seemed to progress so quickly within about a week or so's time, and it just seemed a bit rushed. Where was the drawn-out sexual tension that made both the characters slowly go insane? Where was the trademark Gibson bantering? Something was missing, and I think it was because of how short of a time span the book covered. To clarify, I didn't hate the book, I just felt that it was not what I was used to from Ms. Gibson. For example, this isn't " See Jane Score", which is my all time favorite RG book. Now that book rocked. Which reminds me, I did enjoy the hockey game because I just loooove hockey, and I appreciated Lucy's love for the game as well. I adored her friendship with her pals, and how they each brought something different to the table. So there were some definite pluses in the story, and I already have " I'm In No Mood For Love" waiting in the wings. It did make me wonder though: has anyone ever done the "online dating" thing? I haven't, but I had a friend who met someone and it was perfect....for awhile. He ended up having a lot of baggage, but that's another story. Would you ever meet someone online? Why or why not?
posted by Stacy~ at 10/22/2006 07:15:00 AM
|
Thursday, October 19, 2006:
Nathan Kamp: between the pages of a catalog...
Okay, most of you already know I'm kinda obsessive over a few things. Well, I need a vice, people. I don't smoke, I hardly drink, I'm relatively sane and drama-free, even my chocolate and caffeine addictions are under control and at the safest of levels, so there needs to be a few things that get me all googly and stupid. Here is one of them: my Nathan fixation. What can I say; this one flips my switch. Hate me, call me crazy, think I'm weird, but I love me my Nathan. He's Kampalicious. (And yeah, I'm so not the coolest for saying as such, but he's my boy, and no one has ever, to the best of my knowledge, accused me of being cool. But I have rocked, so I can live with that). What's yours? or Who's yours?
posted by Stacy~ at 10/19/2006 08:48:00 PM
|
I'm shamelessly stealing this from AccessRomance's blog from today. Tawny Taylor wants to know if the blog visitors have a "MySpace". I do. Not exactly sure why because I'm not there a lot, and usually I just post bulletins about what's happening at this blog LOL. And I like to leave a comment at some of my favorite friends' myspace place, but that's about it. It's fun, though I find myself spending more time over here in Bloggerland. Do you have a MySpace? What do you use it for? Do you think it's becoming more or less popular? Even Starbucks has a MySpace. So does Cosmo. It's not just for kids anymore.... (I again thank Kelley, and Michelle B., for introducing me to this new place to hang out).
posted by Stacy~ at 10/19/2006 05:47:00 AM
|
Wednesday, October 18, 2006:
Or more specifically, your checkbook. Now I know in this day and age, many of us, including myself, hardly ever write checks anymore. What with ACH and automatic payments and all that electronic stuff, why bother? But sometimes you need to write out an actual check, like for birthdays or if you owe someone money, so they still do come in handy. So what check style do you have? I used to have airplanes, but I'm a sucker for baby animals, so that's what I have now - cute, fluffy little puppies. I love animals, especially dogs, so this is rather fitting. I smile everytime I look at them because they're so cute. What about you - what type of checks do you have? Do they reflect a part of your personality or were they just the cheapest you could find? If you could choose absolutely anything in the world, what type of checks do you think you would get? I think I would go for my favorite singers, probably country: Garth Brooks, Keith Urban, Tim McGraw, Faith Hill, Jimmy Wayne. Or stars, cuz I just love stars. But that's just me. Now it's your turn. I wanna know.
posted by Stacy~ at 10/18/2006 09:41:00 PM
|
Reminder: Holidays for the troops - 2 weeks left
Hi all, just a reminder that my pal Laurie is still collecting through the end of this month for holiday care packages for the troops. It really is a rewarding project, but if you need further incentive, there are prizes, including books, gift certificates, chocolate. Thank you for all your help :) Laurie, you are the best! Hugs to you, sweetie!
posted by Stacy~ at 10/18/2006 06:19:00 AM
|
Tuesday, October 17, 2006:
...loquacious, don't you think? How about myriad? Or ecstasy? Don't you just love these words? There are so many of them that are fun to say, to enuciate, clever words that just roll off the tip of your tongue. Echo. Lyrical. Karma. Words that are so sensual and bring to mind many decadent images. Delicious. Unusual. Wicked. I think another reason I like words so much is that most people don't really say a lot of different ones when they speak, so to hear a word I haven't heard very often is such a treat for my ears. My mom loves to swear - in fact I'm sure on of the first words I ever learned was one of profanity - and out of the 10 to 15 words she utilizes regularly, after "the", "a", "but", "NO", there are not a lot of choices left to choose from. I think it's made me very conscious of my own vocabulary and I (hopefully) try to incorporate new words every once in awhile...as long as I know what they mean. But I believe readers have a better grasp of words - that seems like a pretty obvious conclusion. And words are so amazing. I love people who articulate their thoughts in creative ways, and use words and phrases that you don't hear everyday. I see a lot of people in a day, and when you ask someone how they are, the usual response is "fine", "good", or "okay". I love it when people say "fabulous", "breathing", "superb" or "resistant to change". That tells me they like to think outside the box, or at least that they want to be different. Noticeable. Intriging. What are some of your favorite words? Why do you like them so much? Least favorite?
posted by Stacy~ at 10/17/2006 08:11:00 PM
|
Monday, October 16, 2006:
Finally, FINALLY, the time has come to give away something. Just because. However I'm not going to make it too easy - I'm gonna make you work for it. But not too hard cuz I may be mean, but I'm not that mean. Well, at least not today. All ya have to do is follow directions and your name will be entered to win a copy of Kathleen Dante's "Entangled". So here we go: 2). Find the book with a legally blind artist 3). Tell me the name of the book, the character's name, and the name of the character's love interest by emailing me @ trelainastarblazer@yahoo.com (Please do not post it here! Thank you!) ***for an extra entry into the contest, please post here at my blog telling me the name of your favorite type of story: secret baby; friends to lovers; pirates; vampires; or whatever else floats your boat. Feel free to include a specific title, though it's not required. Maximum of two entries per person*** ~ Drawing will be held on noon CST on Sunday, October 22nd ~ GOOD LUCK!
posted by Stacy~ at 10/16/2006 06:25:00 PM
|
Saturday, October 14, 2006:
Calling all lurkers....and non-lurkers
I have this work function today, ALL DAY, so not much time to post stuff. Yeah, my contest will be posted soon, this weekend is the plan, so stay tuned. But I did want to pop in and say "hey" before I leave, and ask the burning question: Where are you from? How's the weather in your part of the world? Feel free to leave your response, and anything else that comes to mind, like my blog is boring, or you want more hotties, less rambling, or which song you want me to play, or even just "hi". Adios for now....
posted by Stacy~ at 10/14/2006 05:51:00 AM
|
Thursday, October 12, 2006:
Isn't he yummy? Look at those amazing eyes, and those sexy lips. I could just stare at him all day. And that's because I have this really cool friend who "introduced" me to the wonders of Brazilian model Henri Castelli. Ain't I lucky? My pal, the ultra-cool Judy F, aka known as the hottie goddess and my regular supplier of the goods, deserves a special shout-out for this one. If this weren't reason enough, Judy is also a true friend: thoughtful, funny, sassy, sweet and supportive. She manages to put a smile on my face with just a few chosen words - there's just no one quite like Judy, God bless her. I met her on-line a few years ago through Lori Foster's Yahoo group and since then have gotten the chance to hang out with her in person several times, and it has meant a lot to me knowing she's my friend. Just thought she should know that. So here's to you, Jude, and as promised, I'm keeping my hands where you can see 'em ;)        
posted by Stacy~ at 10/12/2006 07:37:00 PM
|
Bad habits you can't get past
I don't know if I've blogged about this before, but it's been on my mind lately: character's bad habits. Since I don't want to have paper cut-out characters that are so perfect they are boring, it's understandable that they will end up having flaws, idiosyncrasies, little quirks that can endear them to readers, annoy them, or plain just drive us crazy. Some habits are easy to overlook, and might even be ones we can identify with ourselves. Others might be deal-breakers - you know, the type of thing that can keep us from caring about the character(s) and ultimately about the story. One thing that I really don't care for is characters who smoke. Now I know that some of you may smoke, so I don't wish this to come across as any personal attack because everyone should live their own lives doing whatever it is they do and I'm not going to like you any less because of it - that's not what I mean to do at all. In fact my best friend smokes, and I still love her *g* But for characters in a book I'm reading, it is a huge turn-off. I think it has a lot to do with growing up with my mom who smokes, and whenever I go and visit, I could back smelling like cigarette smoke and I have to re-wash everything in my suitcase, which is usually 2 loads of laundry because I pack like I'm going for a month. But I am seriously digressing here. The bottom line is that characters who smoke are not appealing to me. The ones that live on "caffeine and nicotine" seem more like a cliche' of the stressed-out workaholics that seriously need a vacation, or a new career, and I really don't want to read about that because it hits too close to real life. Not mine, but a few people I know live like this. A huge pet peeve for me is the whiner. Instead of the person that overcomes any kind of adversity and gets on with their life, this character lets every little challenge infect all area of their lives, usually ending up unable to have any true last relationships or any type of normal life. And just for clarification, I believe we all need to vent and rant sometimes, even our characters, but not dwell on it every single freakin' day! Now yes, there are events that happen in life that can impact us very strongly - losing a parent, being in a physically and/or mentally abusive relationship, suffering through a serious illness. But there are ways the character can behave and react to their circumstances that allow the reader to feel admiration and respect. As much as we can feel sympathy for someone else's tragedy, after awhile we begin to lose patience and understanding for someone who must broadcast to the world about their misfortunes and who is clearly looking for that sympathy. Whereas the ones I admire are the ones that persevere and try to overcome any obstacles that are thrown in their path without announcing to the world all their business. (I've often noticed it's the people that keep it quiet that are suffering the most). What bad habits annoy you? Any deal-breakers? Has anything caused you to throw the book at the wall? Feel free to give book examples.
posted by Stacy~ at 10/12/2006 05:56:00 AM
|
Monday, October 09, 2006:
Dishing about writing with Kathleen Dante
Kathleen Dante is another on-line friend whom I met prior to her being published, and it's been really exciting to see and hear all about her experiences, those of someone who actually followed her muse. Without further ado, here's Kathleen, though she has told me she is now a bit of a redhead now, with some Fuschia Flash added. (I admire a person who is not afraid to experiment, especially with their appearance *g*).
Kathleen, thank you so much for being here. Please share a few details about yourself: any unusual talents?
No unusual talents, unless you count a vivid imagination. I'm a so-so dancer, not much of an athlete, and only dabble in other languages (Spanish, Japanese, French, German). Research is everything, but I don't count that as a talent.
Tell us a little about your first release, "Entangled". What was the inspiration behind it?
Well, besides romance, I also read a lot of fantasy and science fiction. One of the things that caught my imagination was combining science and magic. I'd been playing with various scenarios involving science and magic, but nothing really took fire. Then a few years back, I'd read "TINKER" by Wen Spencer and one of her characters made a comment about fate and entanglement, and around the same time there was a news article about scientists successfully entangling two photons separated by a river. My back brain suddenly asked, "What if people could be entangled? How would they perceive the entanglement? Surely they wouldn't perceive it in the same way?" And Lantis stepped forward and volunteered to findout. ;-) (Sounds fascinating!) What has been the most fun or interesting research you've done for one of your stories?
Window shopping. =) I've gone to all sorts of stores and websites --furniture, jewelry, lingerie, you name it -- to find things that appeal to my characters. It's like shopping for friends; I find myself thinking that something is Kiera's type or that Lantis wouldn't like it. I don't necessarily buy, but I definitely LOOK. It's all grist for the writer's mill and food for the muse. The most exotic place I've been to, thus far, is Taipei's Snake Market,where you can find restaurants offering snakes (sometimes killed and drained right in front of the audience) side by side with stores selling sex toys. That was an eye-opening stroll, let me tell you. (Ahem, I can imagine!)
What part of the world or country would you love to set one of your stories in if it meant you had to travel there for research?
The Great Barrier Reef in Australia. I've been wanting to go there for years and years, but my travel plans keep getting pushed back. (Oh, Kathleen I really hope you get the chance. I also would love to visit that part of Australia).
Tell us about the moment you first found out you were going to be published.
It was in November last year and I got an e-mail from my agent, totally out of the blue. I was flabbergasted. Literally! I was so shocked and excited I couldn't manage even a squeak, much less scream for joy. I could only bounce around and wave my arms and gasp for breath. LOL I was a loon. I think I read that e-mail five or six times before it sank in.
Name a book that has had an impact with you. It doesn't have to be your favorite, but maybe it affected the way you look at writing, or inspired you to write in the first place. What was it about this book that affected you?
Well, my immediate inspiration was TINKER, but I've already mentioned that, so I'll have to say SECRETS, vol.3, which had Angela Knight's "Blood and Kisses." That story made her an auto-buy author and led me to looking her up online. If I hadn't ended up in her SP Pack, I doubt I'd have tried to write ENTANGLED.
Paperback: 320 pages
Publisher: Berkley Trade
Language: English
ISBN: 0425212750
Describe the type of hero that is your favorite, the ultimate dream man (can include looks and what type of personality).
: > Linda Howard's John Medina, Price Tanner and Black Niall. Angela Knight's Jim Decker. The strong, sexy, protective, extremely capable man who nevertheless recognizes his woman's strengths and *helps* her achieve her goals.
If you weren't writing, what would you be doing?
Reading or sightseeing (aka window shopping).
How do your family and friends react to your career choice?
They're extremely supportive and excited on my behalf. However, except for my parents, I've refused to tell the older generation (my aunts and uncles) how they can find my books. If they do read them, I don't want to know about it. ;-)
What types of stories do you enjoy reading most?
Whether romance, science fiction, fantasy or adventure, I prefer stories with lots of action.
Do you remember what the first romance was that you ever read? How old were you and what was your first reaction?
I think it was HEART OF THE WHIRLWIND, a Mills&Boon by Dorothy Cork. I was 8 years old at the time and my mom had it in her bookshelves. Mills&Boons were quite tame at the time. IIRC the most the H/H did was kiss, but I thought it was exotic with its descriptions of the Australian Outback and raided Mom's bookshelves for more of her books.
I always like to give authors a chance to have a few last words, maybe about an upcoming release, or advice. Feel free to share some thoughts.
Back in 2003, when I started writing the scene that introduced me to Lantis and his world, I never imagined it would lead to today. In fact, I'd stopped writing after a couple of months because work pressures took up all my energy. I returned to ENTANGLED in 2004 after stumbling over the file and re-reading what I'd written. I found myself caught up in the scenes and figured I should give myself the chance to see where it would go. I went so far as to leave my job to give my writing that chance. I figured that if I didn't, I'd always wonder "What if?" Never in my wildest dreams did I imagine I'd end up seeing ENTANGLED in the bookstores.
**Look what I found? Kathleen on release day - with red hair!**
This is an absolute thrill. For me, it's proof that if you keep reaching for your dream, anything is possible. I hope ENTANGLED is as thrilling to read as it was for me to write.
Thanx Kathleen. I hope this is just the beginning for you and that you enjoy the ride :) Good luck with the books, and here's to MANY more!
Click here for an excerpt from "Entangled" and stay tuned for an upcoming contest to win a copy of this book!
posted by Stacy~ at 10/09/2006 06:59:00 PM
|
Sunday, October 08, 2006:
I won a copy of Alison Kent's "Complete Idiot's Guide to Writing Erotic Romance" and as I was thumbing through it, I started to imagine..... Like most other readers, I've had dreams since I was in the single digits to write stories. I used to sit at my grandparents' house and tinker away on their typewriter, creating pages and pages of characters, and coming up with story ideas. I'd get as far as chapter one and then lose steam.
It was years before I started up again - there was a "dark" period when I wrote lots of violent, morbid and bizarre poetry - and it started the same way: create the story idea, then come up with a whole busload of characters, start writing the story, then bam - I'd hit the wall. The inspiration was gone. I ran out of story. Or interest. It just wasn't in me to write. And that became the conclusion. I was not meant to be a writer. I'm not going to lie and say I don't have the time, because any "real" writer will tell you that you make time, no matter what. I just don't have the discipline. I may try again, but I think I'd miss out on so many great books, you know, the ones I don't write.
Now the internet is an amazing place, and I've met authors, aspiring writers, and readers, and there is such enthusiasm out there. There are also more opportunities than ever before on getting published. That can be a good and a bad thing, I think. I think it's wonderful that there are avenues for people who truly want to write, but my concern is the quality. I think it's more or less because just about anyone could become published these days on their own.
I know there are also many amazingly talented people out there as well, so I don't want to discourage anyone from following their dreams, but I've read some excerpts at different websites that made me cringe in fear. Most of it is the really erotic stuff, and no, it wasn't that erotic to me.
If you are a reader, have you ever wanted or even attempted to write? What, if anything, has stopped you? Feel free to share your successes as well.
If you are an author, other than writing your brains out, what would be some other advice? Classes? Joining and attending RWA meetings? Reading books on writing? And what about grammar, and the proper way to write a sentence? Feel free to share your insights.
I'm a reader who loves the industry. I enjoy discovering new authors and exploring the various genres that are out there, and I admire those who take on the challenges of writing. Maybe someday I will have my own story to tell.
posted by Stacy~ at 10/08/2006 08:56:00 PM
|
Movie review: "The Guardian" (2006)
After losing his crew in a fatal crash, legendary Rescue Swimmer, Ben Randall (Kevin Costner), is sent to teach at “A” School, an elite training program for Coast Guard Rescue Swimmers. Wrestling with the loss of his crew members, he throws himself into teaching, turning the program upside down with his unorthodox training methods. While there, he encounters a young, cocky swim champ, Jake Fischer (Ashton Kutcher), who is driven to be the best. During training, Randall helps mold Jake’s character, combining his raw talent with the heart and dedication required of a Rescue Swimmer. I went into this with rather low expectations, I will admit. Yeah, I've liked a lot of Kevin Coster's movies, but I hadn't seen one in years, and Ashton Kutcher comes across as the goofy yet kinda cute kid who does silly movies and shows liked "Punk'd". But the preview looked good and I do have a weakness for movies where the aging hero must pass along his torch to the young know-it-all, who ends up earning the respect of the "old guy". You know what's going to happen because movies like this always have a formula, and that's just fine with me. Just make it work. Ashton Kutcher is rather confident in his abilities... And it does, on many levels. Jake is a cocky, swaggering overachiever who announces right from the start he is going to break all of Senior Chief Ben Randall's records, only to have the man himself overhear the comment in a very public fashion. This comes in handy for a future scene btw, and not really how you might expect. And that's a good way to describe some of the events that do take place: not as you might expect. Sure, Fischer and Randall clash, yet from the start there is recognition and respect. And yes, because Jake is our young hero that all the teenage girls squeal over, there is a girl, but he definitely has to work for her attention. Both Randall and Fischer have their own baggage they carry with them for various reasons, and the inevitable tragedies that pepper the movie emphasize that what these men do is a heroic job, but not a romantic or glamorous one. Overall, I loved the movie. The 2 1/2 hours flew by, and there was definitely a lot of growing up done in the movie, and not just by the main characters. If I have any complaints, it's the roles of the females, or maybe I should say lack thereof, which seems to be standard for action movies. Ben is married, but his wife is leaving him in the beginning of the movie and doesn't really appear much after that. Jake's girl is also relegated to the background, like an afterthought, maybe to show how relationships in this line of work just don't count as the top priority. But even the females students in the program are virtually ignored, which kinda ticks me off Women face harder challenges, especially in these types of positions, which are more physical and require strenuous training to prepare. I would have liked to have seen that, but I guess that would have made it a 3 1/2 hour movie. Even age can't totally erase Kevin Costner's appeal: he makes a great tortured hero I won't spoil the ending but I'm sure you can figure it out because like I mentioned, it has a formula. (I'm such a bad reviewer at my own blog, saving all the juicy stuff and not giving any spoilers). But do go see the movie. I think you'll really like it. There really isn't a lot out there to see, at least nothing I found to be interesting, and this movie is a pleasant way to spend a rainy afternoon or an evening out with friends. And if this movie doesn't make you cry, something is seriously wrong with you LOL. Take the movie challenge.... What movie out there would you recommend?
posted by Stacy~ at 10/08/2006 12:04:00 AM
|
|
|
