It's rather amazing to me how fickle memory is. The mind shies from memories that it associates with unpleasantness or danger, sometimes leaving a panic or unease without context to taunt one...or it obsesses over those same memories, torturing one with things better left forgotten. It stores snips of happy memories. Why are there only snips that can be drawn out and savored? Why not keep snips of the bad and access to volumes of the good? Had I designed the system, that would have been my programming...or at least something coequal.
So the question of the day is about our earliest memories. Mine is of sitting on a porch that has a railing, looking down at a yard in what appears to be late spring/early summer, based on the flowers. My parents have dated this memory for me as somewhere between when I was 8 months and 10 months old. No kidding. They base that on it being warm enough for me to sit outside and the fact that such a porch and yard only existed at the house we lived in until I turned 10 months old. Seems like an odd thing to remember snips of, but I'll assume I was happy at the time, so it got stored away in the back of the mind.
Some things I remember are better forgotten. I won't shy from that idea. There's a reason I write dark fiction. At times, the idea of ETERNAL SUNSHINE OF THE SPOTLESS MIND sounds pretty good to me. Not to get rid of little things like the ex-boyfriend, but to eradicate years of abuse and neglect. Then again, those experiences are part of who I am. If I eradicated them, would I still be me? Or would I be some smiling poppet that didn't have my drive and heart? Would I lay myself open to further pain, if I didn't remember the old? Would I forget to protect myself? On second thought, the movie had the right idea. It's better to leave the good and the bad.
Things I wish I could claim to remember, I can't. I'd love to remember the first story I created. Sadly, that is not saved among the snips...at least as far as I've been able to access. I have writing saved from the age of 7 up, sporadically. I know I was writing then, but the earliest memories I have of practicing my craft come around the age of 10.
Memory may be inconstant, but it's worth a trip down the lane, once in a while. Who knows what side paths you might stumble upon and recover those precious snips?
28 July 2010
16 July 2010
NEW BLOG EVENT! Friday Five
Every week on Friday, I'm going to ask a question, and people can give their top five list in answer to it.
This week's question...
What are the top five things you use to procrastinate when you should be writing?
Mine would be...
1. eMail! I tend to obsess over email when I'm dragging feet on a writing project...opening it a couple times an hour. I do it so badly that I sometimes turn off my network to make it a less appealing option. Instead of a two-button action, it takes me minutes to get back online, so it's no longer worth it as often.
2. Facebook! See the description above.
3. The kids. When I'm hot on a writing project, being involved in every facet of their days seems less pressing than when I don't really want to be typing or writing in a notebook. I love my kids and spend time with them every day, but I also usually take my work time as well. On days when I don't want to work, that is a very convenient reason for me not to do it. "We haven't had a family game day in a while. Break out the games. Let's take an outing."
4. The house. Seriously? Me? I loathe housework (love cooking!), but when I don't want to be writing for some reason, I am Mrs. Cleaver. My husband will come home to freshly scrubbed floors, dusting done, three loads of laundry done in a day when I typically do one or two...or -- Heavens forbid! -- an actual trip to the laundrymat to do all of it at once, fold, and put away.
5. Any other writing project in existence but the one I should be finishing.
This week's question...
What are the top five things you use to procrastinate when you should be writing?
Mine would be...
1. eMail! I tend to obsess over email when I'm dragging feet on a writing project...opening it a couple times an hour. I do it so badly that I sometimes turn off my network to make it a less appealing option. Instead of a two-button action, it takes me minutes to get back online, so it's no longer worth it as often.
2. Facebook! See the description above.
3. The kids. When I'm hot on a writing project, being involved in every facet of their days seems less pressing than when I don't really want to be typing or writing in a notebook. I love my kids and spend time with them every day, but I also usually take my work time as well. On days when I don't want to work, that is a very convenient reason for me not to do it. "We haven't had a family game day in a while. Break out the games. Let's take an outing."
4. The house. Seriously? Me? I loathe housework (love cooking!), but when I don't want to be writing for some reason, I am Mrs. Cleaver. My husband will come home to freshly scrubbed floors, dusting done, three loads of laundry done in a day when I typically do one or two...or -- Heavens forbid! -- an actual trip to the laundrymat to do all of it at once, fold, and put away.
5. Any other writing project in existence but the one I should be finishing.
13 July 2010
CONTEST FOR THE DAY!
My web site is at 24,989 visitors, and I really want to see it over 25,000. Here's the contest. Go to my site, go through the gateway, and note the number on the counter at the bottom of the page while you're there. Send it to me by tomorrow night, and I'll enter you to win PDF of choice from me. Whichever book you want... from whichever publisher.
LEGALESE: By entering, you are verifying that you are adult in your country of origin and allowed to receive erotic romance content.
Come on out and help me get those last 11 visits today!
LEGALESE: By entering, you are verifying that you are adult in your country of origin and allowed to receive erotic romance content.
Come on out and help me get those last 11 visits today!
09 July 2010
EPICon 2011 Classes and Panels Call
EPICon™ 2011 – Instructors, Panellists, and Class Proposals Needed
EPIC™ (Electronically Published Internet Connection) needs classes and panels for EPICon™ 2011.
• Do you have a subject you’re knowledgeable about?
• Have a desire to teach but don’t have time for long-term commitment?
• Do you have an idea for a class that you'd like to see offered?
• Is there a topic that you want more information about but don't know where to find it?
• Want to learn more about publishing, writing, or just be around interesting people talking about interesting things?
If you answered “yes” to any of these questions, join us in beautiful Colonial Williamsburg, Virginia on March 10th-13th, 2011 and volunteer to teach a class.
Uncomfortable with teaching a class? Then volunteer to sit on a panel or request a class, and we’ll see what we can do about fulfilling that request.
Submit your suggestions, class proposals, ideas for panel discussions and for potential speakers to Ashley and Elizabeth at EpiConClassCoordinator(at)gmail(dot)com. Be sure to include what you’re interested in (top 3 choices for classes or panels) and we’ll get back to you as soon as possible.
For more information on the conference, please visit this link.
Elizabeth Schechter
Ashley Christman
EPICon™ 2011 Class Track Coordinators
EpiConClassCoordinator(at)gmail(dot)com
http://www.epicon-conference.com/
# # #
EPIC – Electronically Published Internet Connection™ was established in 1997 as a professional organization for published and contracted eBook and print authors. EPIC™’s goal is to provide a strong voice for electronic publishing—the major publishing marketplace of the future. EPIC™ is non-profit and tax-exempt under 501(c)6.
02 July 2010
Another new review!
"Tygers is a real whodunit. It took everything I had to keep from cheating by turning to the back to see who won. Goodness, Brenna Lyons certainly knows how to put a reader on the edge wondering if they would rather jump or keep reading to experience the full impact of such a wonderfully written suspense novel. The one aspect that made the experience truly unique are the pictures scattered throughout the book to make for a one of kind romance story rarely experienced outside of manga novels. I would encourage you to pick up Tygers, and I challenge anyone to read the whole book; every page; no skipping allowed." Reviewed by Delane for Coffee Time Romance & More 5 Cups!
Grumbling at blatant misrepresentation...
Not about me, but that doesn't make it any better.
Background... We all know that EPIC's eBook Awards (formerly called the EPPIE) have been around for 12 years now. They are the longest-standing eBook awards in existence. There were some before EPPIE, like Frankfurt, but they are no longer in existence. We all know that the Dream Realm Awards are only a year younger.
A new award (this is their INAUGURAL year) is now claiming they are the "a brand new awards program and the only one of its kind" and "the only awards program in the world committed to illuminating and honoring the very best of English language digital publishing."
You might believe they are simply clueless, which still would turn me off from entering their contest. If they don't know the industry, why would I trust them to judge an award in it?
But that can't be said. I know that I've sent them a note about it, and I know at least a half dozen others that have as well. They aren't ignorant of the fact that they are making false claims, but they persist in it.
As if that's not bad enough, they cost almost three times as much as the EPIC contests do and more than three times what DRA does. What a deal. Sarcasm intended.
Brenna
Background... We all know that EPIC's eBook Awards (formerly called the EPPIE) have been around for 12 years now. They are the longest-standing eBook awards in existence. There were some before EPPIE, like Frankfurt, but they are no longer in existence. We all know that the Dream Realm Awards are only a year younger.
A new award (this is their INAUGURAL year) is now claiming they are the "a brand new awards program and the only one of its kind" and "the only awards program in the world committed to illuminating and honoring the very best of English language digital publishing."
You might believe they are simply clueless, which still would turn me off from entering their contest. If they don't know the industry, why would I trust them to judge an award in it?
But that can't be said. I know that I've sent them a note about it, and I know at least a half dozen others that have as well. They aren't ignorant of the fact that they are making false claims, but they persist in it.
As if that's not bad enough, they cost almost three times as much as the EPIC contests do and more than three times what DRA does. What a deal. Sarcasm intended.
Brenna
29 June 2010
New Review!
ALL I WANT FOR CHRISTMAS IS YOU
"I loved this book. I was sort of expecting some cheesy romance story about an innocent girl falling for her late fiancé's older and more handsome brother, but I got much more than I bargained for. I was very surprised by the depth in Robin; she isn't just an innocent girl who's been repressing her feelings. She is a strong willed woman who knows what she wants in and out of the bedroom and is not afraid to go after it. She is a portrayal of courage all throughout this story, first by sticking with the one she loves even though he didn't exactly satisfy her sex-wise, and later by going against all reason just to find happiness again. I loved the development of the story also, it was very well paced, the dialogue is rich and witty, and the sex scenes are sizzling. This story is a great addition to erotica." Reviewed by Athena for The Romance Studio 4 Hearts!
CAVEAT: Athena pointed out that she would have liked to see more from the Carson family (the secondary characters). There are currently two more stories from the family WIP. Les hasn't decided to speak to me yet about his lady, but Neil and Barb have...and so have Neil and Les's younger sister, Samantha, who we haven't met yet. Don't worry. There's plenty more to come from Carson Cousins.
"I loved this book. I was sort of expecting some cheesy romance story about an innocent girl falling for her late fiancé's older and more handsome brother, but I got much more than I bargained for. I was very surprised by the depth in Robin; she isn't just an innocent girl who's been repressing her feelings. She is a strong willed woman who knows what she wants in and out of the bedroom and is not afraid to go after it. She is a portrayal of courage all throughout this story, first by sticking with the one she loves even though he didn't exactly satisfy her sex-wise, and later by going against all reason just to find happiness again. I loved the development of the story also, it was very well paced, the dialogue is rich and witty, and the sex scenes are sizzling. This story is a great addition to erotica." Reviewed by Athena for The Romance Studio 4 Hearts!
CAVEAT: Athena pointed out that she would have liked to see more from the Carson family (the secondary characters). There are currently two more stories from the family WIP. Les hasn't decided to speak to me yet about his lady, but Neil and Barb have...and so have Neil and Les's younger sister, Samantha, who we haven't met yet. Don't worry. There's plenty more to come from Carson Cousins.
27 June 2010
New Reviews!
NEVERMORE
"A supernatural romp of delightful proportions, Nevermore is a truly captivating glimpse of a truly magical world. The line between love and hate is drawn, crossed and re-crossed as the battle lines are drawn between the werewolf and his mate, mortal enemies drawn together by the magic of their world. Short, but sweet, the level of emotion in this short interlude is unexpectedly profound in its brevity. Surprisingly well drawn." Reviewed by Stacey for Manic Reviews 4.5 stars! Featured review!
MAGMON'S HUNGER
"The elements of fire and ice collide in “Magmon’s Hunger.” Ms. Lyons does a fantastic job in building this world and the characters within it. Like a movie, this story unfolds before the reader in great detail." Reviewed by Angelique for Happily Ever After Reviews 3 Cups!
CAVEAT: Angelique continues on to caution that she finds the book "unbalanced," because it shows very little about Diama until she meets Kar but follows Karliss through life. This is undeniably true. As my web site and the publisher's site state, this book is not my typical erotic romance. It has a romance in it and has a HEA, but the book is fantasy erotica and follows Karliss on his life toward a future he's been denied knowledge of...Diama. Please, be aware this is the case. Likewise, the second book in this series will follow a young noblewoman Kar trained to her HEA with another. This series is NOT strictly a romance series and will have this unbalanced feel.
WRITTEN IN THE STARS
"In less than 24 hours, after reading the prologue and first chapter of Written in the Stars, I tumbled madly in love with the fantasy genre. It was easy. As engrossed in this electrifying tale of loss, love, and second chances as I was, it became harder to pull away from it long enough to attend a visitor. To defend my lapse as a hostess, I’m not the first to refuse to be yanked away from a good book! With writing this original and out of this world, the visitor didn’t stand a chance! Written in the Stars is fantasy romance at its finest; an example of how much the fantasy genre has evolved with more room to expand. Everything I enjoy most about fantasy and narrative is right here! Loads of angst and action offset by strong, complex characters immersed in a web of mystical intrigue. The entire story will knock your stellar socks off! The author’s delivery is brilliant, always leaving you on edge as the plot gives way to action, forcing the narrative to gain ground until everything comes together in a Twelfth Night finessed finale. Now you understand why I was relentless in finishing it. It’s worth every magical, sensuous moment, I guarantee. This sparkling gem of a novella is sure to bedazzle you, so put it on your spring/summer reading list." Reviewed by Patrice F. for Joyfully Reviewed Joyfully Recommended Read!
THE MASTER'S LOVER
"Ms Lyon’s has penned a story of sacrifice, fear, trust and redemption. I enjoyed every magical word. Galon is a tortured soul. More than desperate need for physical love, he needs someone who understands his secret yearnings and desires. Anzel, charmed by the young Mage, offers him sanctuary and with each touch, love. But Galon’s physical scars reveal the severity of his emotional damage. Can he believe in Anzel, trust in him to share a life not filled with pain? Read His Master’s Lover to discover how love can heal the most broken of men." Reviewed by Romancereader for Seriously Reviewed Story 8.5 out of 10, Presentation 8.5 out of 10
POISON, LIES, AND NO-WIN CHOICES
"Cruelty and revenge engage in a fatal dance, and the innocent need protection from ruthless ambition, and even the most powerful fall victim to cunning and greed. Brenna Lyons delves further into secrets and betrayals past [in] this wicked futuristic-fantasy cocktail. For newbies, it’s twice as effective if they’ve read the prequel, though not necessary. This tale captivates because it spins an intriguing combo of sexual heat and lots of angst in excess, all tied into emotion, and a narrative that seduces the imagination through every stage. Just remember this isn’t the Cinderella story made famous by the Grimm Brothers and the silver screen. It’s something with one foot stretched into the real world, our present societal ills on full display. Everything is reconstructed for adult readers (like me!) who enjoy their erotic romance tied up with a big bow of creativity that’s edgier, darker, and bolstered by a grown-up twist." Reviewed by Patrice F. for Joyfully Reviewed
WITH GREAT POWER
"Deception, betrayal, and humans with fantastic powers fill the pages of this new story from Brenna Lyons. Once again, Lyons has created a fantastic world filled with vivid imagery and endearing characters. This is a great short story that shows the wonderful talent that Brenna possesses." Reviewed by Cassie for Bitten by Books 4 Tombstones!
CAVEAT: For some reason, the review shows the old cover art from the original NCP release of the story in the anthology ULTIMATE WARRIORS. We have requested a change to the correct art, and I'm not certain how they picked up the old art, but the review is a great one! Thanks to BBB.
TYGERS
"Tygers was an interesting book to read. In the beginning, I wasn’t sure what or who was real, a ghost, a figment of a child’s imagination, or an overreaction. I have to say that that’s what made this novel. The characters are all tied up emotionally and mentally by first the mysterious Ty (who we don’t really know exists or not or who he is) and then by Carol’s abusive husband. The story is intense and detailed. This is a true fantasy novel that will have you aching for our poor heroine. Actually, the one I felt the worse for was poor Keith. Keith has been in love with Katie for the last couple decades and he’s being drawn in head first in to the crazy psychic world of Katie and Kyle’s tigers. This is a great book, and Lyons has a wonderful way with situations and characters." Reviewed by Booktaster for Bitten by Books 4.5 Tomstones!
RENEGADE'S RUN
"Brenna Lyons has delivered a futuristic psychic fantasy that not only captivated me from the start, but also opened my mind to the possibilities of this truly happening in our not-so-distant future. I was pleasantly surprised when I got to the meat of this story; the futuristic fantasy genre is not always my preference, but this one is sure to be one of my tops in this category. The characters’ strength and determination in their fight to be with each other as well as their devotion to finding out and reporting the truth about the deceit and corruption found in the upper offices of the government agencies was brilliant and gave the book heart which set it apart from the rest. This book was full of excitement, romance, sex and blended it with a bit of psychic superheroes that joined together to defeat the bad men (think X-men with a lot more steamy love scenes)." Reviewed by Hockeyvamp for Bitten By Books 4.5 Tombstones!
UNDEAD UNDERWAY
"What would happen if a vampire got loose on a nuclear submarine? This story is a first person perspective account of just that. Petty Officer Bob Leonard is the storyteller in this terrific tale. This short story by Brenna Lyons is a descriptive and interesting romp through the world of the vampire. With enough humor and levity to keep the nightmares at bay, this story is a great read." Reviewed by Cassie for Bitten By Books 4 Tombstones!
UNDEAD EMBRACE
"This anthology shows gives readers a glimpse into the ever interesting and always terrifying world of the undead. Including stories by Brenna Lyons, T. L. Ryder and Terri Pray, this volume takes the undead to a new level. Comfort Food is a very descriptive story with an interesting take on the traditional zombie story. Human Touch- Vividly descriptive and fun, this story is a great read. Long Odds- Once again, Brenna Lyons has woven a tale of intrigue and surprise that is a great page turner." Reviewed by Cassie for Bitten By Books 3.5 Tombstones!
THREE WISHES
"First things first. This is one scorching little story that will have you thinking of cops and handcuffs in a whole new way — a naughty and delicious way. Brenna Lyons loosely bases Three Wishes on the Brothers Grimm fairy tale “The Three Little Men In The Wood”. The story is also reminiscent of “Cinderella”, with Ellie being terrorized and relegated to a second-class citizen in her own home by a wicked stepmother and stepsister. The characters are interesting and the plot erotically charged while still remaining true to the dark and macabre nature of fairy tales." Reviewed by Brit for Bitten by Books 3.5 Tombstones!
THE TEMPTATION OF EVE
"This story is the perfect example of how people twist the word of God to accommodate their own beliefs and actions, and everyone from the most devout Christian to sadistic cult leaders and terrorists are guilty. This actually makes my skin crawl more than the most vicious horror novels. Eve seems like a good person, if maybe a little too naïve, but her maturity and awareness grow throughout this story. I also enjoy the fact that Román is not completely innocent, but has those human flaws that we can all relate to." Reviewed by Lototy for Coffee Time Romance & More 3 cups!
CAVEAT: This is one reviewer that gets it! The truth is that this book is not technically a romance either. Dark romance? Yes. Absolutely. This is a tale of revenge, loss of innocence, corruption, and murder. If you're looking for a romance book, this is not your typical fare.
"A supernatural romp of delightful proportions, Nevermore is a truly captivating glimpse of a truly magical world. The line between love and hate is drawn, crossed and re-crossed as the battle lines are drawn between the werewolf and his mate, mortal enemies drawn together by the magic of their world. Short, but sweet, the level of emotion in this short interlude is unexpectedly profound in its brevity. Surprisingly well drawn." Reviewed by Stacey for Manic Reviews 4.5 stars! Featured review!
MAGMON'S HUNGER
"The elements of fire and ice collide in “Magmon’s Hunger.” Ms. Lyons does a fantastic job in building this world and the characters within it. Like a movie, this story unfolds before the reader in great detail." Reviewed by Angelique for Happily Ever After Reviews 3 Cups!
CAVEAT: Angelique continues on to caution that she finds the book "unbalanced," because it shows very little about Diama until she meets Kar but follows Karliss through life. This is undeniably true. As my web site and the publisher's site state, this book is not my typical erotic romance. It has a romance in it and has a HEA, but the book is fantasy erotica and follows Karliss on his life toward a future he's been denied knowledge of...Diama. Please, be aware this is the case. Likewise, the second book in this series will follow a young noblewoman Kar trained to her HEA with another. This series is NOT strictly a romance series and will have this unbalanced feel.
WRITTEN IN THE STARS
"In less than 24 hours, after reading the prologue and first chapter of Written in the Stars, I tumbled madly in love with the fantasy genre. It was easy. As engrossed in this electrifying tale of loss, love, and second chances as I was, it became harder to pull away from it long enough to attend a visitor. To defend my lapse as a hostess, I’m not the first to refuse to be yanked away from a good book! With writing this original and out of this world, the visitor didn’t stand a chance! Written in the Stars is fantasy romance at its finest; an example of how much the fantasy genre has evolved with more room to expand. Everything I enjoy most about fantasy and narrative is right here! Loads of angst and action offset by strong, complex characters immersed in a web of mystical intrigue. The entire story will knock your stellar socks off! The author’s delivery is brilliant, always leaving you on edge as the plot gives way to action, forcing the narrative to gain ground until everything comes together in a Twelfth Night finessed finale. Now you understand why I was relentless in finishing it. It’s worth every magical, sensuous moment, I guarantee. This sparkling gem of a novella is sure to bedazzle you, so put it on your spring/summer reading list." Reviewed by Patrice F. for Joyfully Reviewed Joyfully Recommended Read!
THE MASTER'S LOVER
"Ms Lyon’s has penned a story of sacrifice, fear, trust and redemption. I enjoyed every magical word. Galon is a tortured soul. More than desperate need for physical love, he needs someone who understands his secret yearnings and desires. Anzel, charmed by the young Mage, offers him sanctuary and with each touch, love. But Galon’s physical scars reveal the severity of his emotional damage. Can he believe in Anzel, trust in him to share a life not filled with pain? Read His Master’s Lover to discover how love can heal the most broken of men." Reviewed by Romancereader for Seriously Reviewed Story 8.5 out of 10, Presentation 8.5 out of 10
POISON, LIES, AND NO-WIN CHOICES
"Cruelty and revenge engage in a fatal dance, and the innocent need protection from ruthless ambition, and even the most powerful fall victim to cunning and greed. Brenna Lyons delves further into secrets and betrayals past [in] this wicked futuristic-fantasy cocktail. For newbies, it’s twice as effective if they’ve read the prequel, though not necessary. This tale captivates because it spins an intriguing combo of sexual heat and lots of angst in excess, all tied into emotion, and a narrative that seduces the imagination through every stage. Just remember this isn’t the Cinderella story made famous by the Grimm Brothers and the silver screen. It’s something with one foot stretched into the real world, our present societal ills on full display. Everything is reconstructed for adult readers (like me!) who enjoy their erotic romance tied up with a big bow of creativity that’s edgier, darker, and bolstered by a grown-up twist." Reviewed by Patrice F. for Joyfully Reviewed
WITH GREAT POWER
"Deception, betrayal, and humans with fantastic powers fill the pages of this new story from Brenna Lyons. Once again, Lyons has created a fantastic world filled with vivid imagery and endearing characters. This is a great short story that shows the wonderful talent that Brenna possesses." Reviewed by Cassie for Bitten by Books 4 Tombstones!
CAVEAT: For some reason, the review shows the old cover art from the original NCP release of the story in the anthology ULTIMATE WARRIORS. We have requested a change to the correct art, and I'm not certain how they picked up the old art, but the review is a great one! Thanks to BBB.
TYGERS
"Tygers was an interesting book to read. In the beginning, I wasn’t sure what or who was real, a ghost, a figment of a child’s imagination, or an overreaction. I have to say that that’s what made this novel. The characters are all tied up emotionally and mentally by first the mysterious Ty (who we don’t really know exists or not or who he is) and then by Carol’s abusive husband. The story is intense and detailed. This is a true fantasy novel that will have you aching for our poor heroine. Actually, the one I felt the worse for was poor Keith. Keith has been in love with Katie for the last couple decades and he’s being drawn in head first in to the crazy psychic world of Katie and Kyle’s tigers. This is a great book, and Lyons has a wonderful way with situations and characters." Reviewed by Booktaster for Bitten by Books 4.5 Tomstones!
RENEGADE'S RUN
"Brenna Lyons has delivered a futuristic psychic fantasy that not only captivated me from the start, but also opened my mind to the possibilities of this truly happening in our not-so-distant future. I was pleasantly surprised when I got to the meat of this story; the futuristic fantasy genre is not always my preference, but this one is sure to be one of my tops in this category. The characters’ strength and determination in their fight to be with each other as well as their devotion to finding out and reporting the truth about the deceit and corruption found in the upper offices of the government agencies was brilliant and gave the book heart which set it apart from the rest. This book was full of excitement, romance, sex and blended it with a bit of psychic superheroes that joined together to defeat the bad men (think X-men with a lot more steamy love scenes)." Reviewed by Hockeyvamp for Bitten By Books 4.5 Tombstones!
UNDEAD UNDERWAY
"What would happen if a vampire got loose on a nuclear submarine? This story is a first person perspective account of just that. Petty Officer Bob Leonard is the storyteller in this terrific tale. This short story by Brenna Lyons is a descriptive and interesting romp through the world of the vampire. With enough humor and levity to keep the nightmares at bay, this story is a great read." Reviewed by Cassie for Bitten By Books 4 Tombstones!
UNDEAD EMBRACE
"This anthology shows gives readers a glimpse into the ever interesting and always terrifying world of the undead. Including stories by Brenna Lyons, T. L. Ryder and Terri Pray, this volume takes the undead to a new level. Comfort Food is a very descriptive story with an interesting take on the traditional zombie story. Human Touch- Vividly descriptive and fun, this story is a great read. Long Odds- Once again, Brenna Lyons has woven a tale of intrigue and surprise that is a great page turner." Reviewed by Cassie for Bitten By Books 3.5 Tombstones!
THREE WISHES
"First things first. This is one scorching little story that will have you thinking of cops and handcuffs in a whole new way — a naughty and delicious way. Brenna Lyons loosely bases Three Wishes on the Brothers Grimm fairy tale “The Three Little Men In The Wood”. The story is also reminiscent of “Cinderella”, with Ellie being terrorized and relegated to a second-class citizen in her own home by a wicked stepmother and stepsister. The characters are interesting and the plot erotically charged while still remaining true to the dark and macabre nature of fairy tales." Reviewed by Brit for Bitten by Books 3.5 Tombstones!
THE TEMPTATION OF EVE
"This story is the perfect example of how people twist the word of God to accommodate their own beliefs and actions, and everyone from the most devout Christian to sadistic cult leaders and terrorists are guilty. This actually makes my skin crawl more than the most vicious horror novels. Eve seems like a good person, if maybe a little too naïve, but her maturity and awareness grow throughout this story. I also enjoy the fact that Román is not completely innocent, but has those human flaws that we can all relate to." Reviewed by Lototy for Coffee Time Romance & More 3 cups!
CAVEAT: This is one reviewer that gets it! The truth is that this book is not technically a romance either. Dark romance? Yes. Absolutely. This is a tale of revenge, loss of innocence, corruption, and murder. If you're looking for a romance book, this is not your typical fare.
Update on travel to EPICon 2011
As I said on the site, there are many local airports. Some people have only been checking the closest one and finding high fares, because Newport News/Williamsburg is a small regional airport. If your airfares into that airport are outrageous, as some people are finding, be sure to check out Norfolk Airport (which is an International Airport, though a small one), Richmond Airport, or the two Washington, DC airports (Dulles and Reagan). To be blunt, my ticket into Norfolk comes in at almost $100 cheaper than a ticket into NPN/W, but others have seen MUCH lower rates at other airports than I have.
The same coach company we have serving NPN/W also serves Norfolk and Richmond, for a higher rate. You can still use our EPICon page to reserve, but be sure to put in the other airport. If you don't wish to rent a car at Norfolk for the hour or so drive to the hotel, this is a viable alternative, and if the ticket is considerably less at one of those airports, it would be well worth it to take the coach that far.
Dulles is about 2-3.5 hours (in moderate traffic) from the hotel, and Reagan is a bit further, but not horribly so. It's a rental car type of thing, definitely.
To anyone that wants to take a bus or train, the station is very close to the hotel, and there is a cab stand right outside that can get you to the hotel. If you're driving in, there is free parking at the hotel.
Brenna
The same coach company we have serving NPN/W also serves Norfolk and Richmond, for a higher rate. You can still use our EPICon page to reserve, but be sure to put in the other airport. If you don't wish to rent a car at Norfolk for the hour or so drive to the hotel, this is a viable alternative, and if the ticket is considerably less at one of those airports, it would be well worth it to take the coach that far.
Dulles is about 2-3.5 hours (in moderate traffic) from the hotel, and Reagan is a bit further, but not horribly so. It's a rental car type of thing, definitely.
To anyone that wants to take a bus or train, the station is very close to the hotel, and there is a cab stand right outside that can get you to the hotel. If you're driving in, there is free parking at the hotel.
Brenna
EPICon 2011 is open for registration!
The EPICon site is now 100% up and running, and everyone (member or not) is welcome to register! Please feel free to forward this message...
Brenna Lyons
EPICon 2011 co-chair
The 12th Annual EPICon™ Goes Colonial
EPICon™, hosted by EPIC - Electronically Published Internet Connection™, has opened registrations for their 12th annual industry convention. The convention will be held March 10th-13th, 2011 at the Williamsburg Woodlands Hotel and Convention Center in Colonial Williamsburg, VA.
Why should you consider coming to EPICon?
* Two days of workshops in everything from genre writing to the business of ePublishing, marketing, and IP law, including a class on writing love scenes by NY Times bestseller Angela Knight and a two-hour class on hostage negotiation by veteran police officer Michael Woodcock.
*Affordable pricing! Early EPIC member registrants this year (those who register before October 31st, 2010) will pay $190 for the three-day convention, and non-members will pay just $30 more. The cost includes most meals from the Thursday evening mixer through the Sunday morning breakfast. In addition, the convention has special rates for family members who are just eating convention meals but not attending classes, middle school through college students, teachers attending the convention, and even a deal for three-day passes into the historic district. The convention hotel rate is $109 per night (single or double occupancy), and a suite is just $129.
* A convention that not only offers meal choices at all non-buffet meals but also works with food aversions, allergies, and other concerns.
* A full list of promo opportunities for authors, publishers, and agents. Pitch sessions will be arranged with agents and editors interested in giving them, as well as underwriting for meet and greets held at the convention.
* Free Wi-Fi in all hotel rooms and convention areas.
* All profits from the hotel and historic site passes go to support the Colonial Williamsburg educational efforts.
* Convention materials on CD instead of the bulky old 3-ring binder!
* Something for everyone, from the unpublished author to the published, from industry members to teachers and students.
Registration for the 2011 convention is at http://www.epicon-conference.com/ EPICon is using technology to its full advantage. For those that don’t want to do everything by phone, the entire process--from registering for the convention and making reservations at the hotel to arranging for the airport shuttle and choosing meals--can be accomplished online this year.
Contact: Lisa Brennan-Webb, Convention Chair
Email: epiconchair2011@yahoo.com
http://www.epicon-conference.com/
http://www.epicauthors.com
Brenna Lyons
EPICon 2011 co-chair
The 12th Annual EPICon™ Goes Colonial
EPICon™, hosted by EPIC - Electronically Published Internet Connection™, has opened registrations for their 12th annual industry convention. The convention will be held March 10th-13th, 2011 at the Williamsburg Woodlands Hotel and Convention Center in Colonial Williamsburg, VA.
Why should you consider coming to EPICon?
* Two days of workshops in everything from genre writing to the business of ePublishing, marketing, and IP law, including a class on writing love scenes by NY Times bestseller Angela Knight and a two-hour class on hostage negotiation by veteran police officer Michael Woodcock.
*Affordable pricing! Early EPIC member registrants this year (those who register before October 31st, 2010) will pay $190 for the three-day convention, and non-members will pay just $30 more. The cost includes most meals from the Thursday evening mixer through the Sunday morning breakfast. In addition, the convention has special rates for family members who are just eating convention meals but not attending classes, middle school through college students, teachers attending the convention, and even a deal for three-day passes into the historic district. The convention hotel rate is $109 per night (single or double occupancy), and a suite is just $129.
* A convention that not only offers meal choices at all non-buffet meals but also works with food aversions, allergies, and other concerns.
* A full list of promo opportunities for authors, publishers, and agents. Pitch sessions will be arranged with agents and editors interested in giving them, as well as underwriting for meet and greets held at the convention.
* Free Wi-Fi in all hotel rooms and convention areas.
* All profits from the hotel and historic site passes go to support the Colonial Williamsburg educational efforts.
* Convention materials on CD instead of the bulky old 3-ring binder!
* Something for everyone, from the unpublished author to the published, from industry members to teachers and students.
Registration for the 2011 convention is at http://www.epicon-conference.com/ EPICon is using technology to its full advantage. For those that don’t want to do everything by phone, the entire process--from registering for the convention and making reservations at the hotel to arranging for the airport shuttle and choosing meals--can be accomplished online this year.
Contact: Lisa Brennan-Webb, Convention Chair
Email: epiconchair2011@yahoo.com
http://www.epicon-conference.com/
http://www.epicauthors.com
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