Sensual Energies

Blog Move & Revamp

2007-06-06T14:26:00.000-04:00

The blog is closed and now over at wordpress with a new face and a new name.

Please join me over there.

Blog - Flava by Angeleque

Website - Erotic Romances by Angeleque

This blog will stay open just as a refer for a small while. All previous posts are already archived over at Flava.

Website Relaunch

2007-02-14T18:08:00.000-05:00

Just in time for Valentine's Day -

I am happy to announce the launch of my new website with a new domain name.

Erotic Romances by Angeleque

FREE READS for Valentine's Day

2007-02-14T18:01:00.000-05:00

Valentine's Day FREE READ courtesy of the Romance Divas Ebook Challenge

For more exciting FREE READS go to Romance Divas E-Book Challenge for a complete listing

This started out completely different and isn't quite the heat level I usually write.

Anchor - Jaycee's Story

It's available in both PDF and HTML forms.

Mating Call by Emily Ryan-Davis

2007-01-05T22:00:00.000-05:00

Available now at Freya's Bower!

Cora Phillips has witchcraft in her blood, but she's convinced she inherited the recessive rather than the dominant trait. Her mother and sister are the real heiresses to the Lune tradition; Cora has neither the interest nor the inclination to take up the Dragonkeeper mantle. Years ago, she left the New York City Witch lifestyle to the other women in her family, and said goodbye to all the velvet and lace. However, during a moment of insomnia-induced insanity, she agrees to come back to celebrate Christmas/Winter Solstice with her family.

It comes as a shock to all three women when Cora, through clumsy fumblings to "get in touch with her goddess" at her sister's urging, calls a pair of ancient dragons into her meditation circle.

Cora swears it's a mistake. Her mother swears it's the correct course of events. Eventually, every Dragonkeeper issues the call to mate. Problem is, nobody expected Cora to summon even a single dragon, let alone two.

Before long, the dragons' guardians come knocking, literally, and ruin any hope of politely apologizing and returning the creatures.

For more information, visit Freya's Bower!

Up In Flames by Ember Sinclair

2007-01-05T21:52:00.000-05:00

Check out this steamy release by Ember Sinclair:

Up In Flames by Ember Sinclair
Available January 12, 2007
from CobbleStone Press

Blurb

Kat Ashbrook has two things on her mind—catching a murderer and sexy new boss, Connor Mercer. She never expected his come-hither looks, but she’s betting she can resist if she keeps her mind on the job. Too bad a prank leads to her surrender and
possibly their deaths.

Paralle Heat by Deidre Knight

2006-10-26T17:03:00.000-04:00

Deidre Knight Cranks up the Heat in Her Latest Installment in the Parallel Series: PARALLEL HEAT

“Intelligent characters, hot romance and breathtaking adventure with epic feel—exactly what I want to read!” - Susan Grant, New York Times bestselling author

“A fantastic and riveting new voice in paranormal fiction.” -Karen Marie Moning, New York Times bestselling author of Spell of the Highlander

“At times humorous, at others heart-wrenching, but always compelling, Deidre Knight offers readers a fresh, wonderfully creative glimpse at the complexity of human decisions. What a page-turner!” - Gena Showalter, Author of Playing with Fire

In the unforgettable, alternate world of Parallel Heat, two enemies are bound by betrayal, vengeance—and forbidden passion.

Warrior and royal guardian Marco McKinley has been assigned a vital mission on Earth, where a war between human fighters and otherworldly soldiers is rising in the far reaches of Wyoming. But he's also been warned about twists of fate yet to come-ones that will transform him into the enemy of his own people and appoint him the personal protector of beautiful soldier Thea Haven.

Little do Marco and Thea know, but they have met before in an alternate universe, and they are bound by betrayal and vengeance. Now, on a world at the brink of destruction, forbidden passion ignites—but will the destiny Marco has glimpsed unfold a second time?

Sign up for Deidre’s newsletter and be eligible to win a $50 Amazon gift certificate, signed copies of her books, and plenty of other goodies! Just click here.

Check out the book that launched the series, PARALLEL ATTRACTION or order your copy of PARALLEL HEAT today! And coming in April, PARALLEL SEDUCTION.

ONE by One

2006-10-14T17:48:00.000-04:00

Thursday Thirteen # 1

2006-10-11T22:58:00.000-04:00

Thirteen Sensual Love Songs

In no particular order...

1. Thank you in advance by Boyz II Men
2. When we're dancing close and slow by Prince
3. Wey U by Chante Moore
4. Natalie by Al B Sure
5. Speechless by Beyonce
6. Insatiable by Prince
7. Sexual Healing by Marvin Gaye
8. Soulful Moaning by Dale
9. My Body by LSG
10. Something in your eyes by Bell Biv Devoe
11. T-Shirt by Destiny's Child
12. My Place by Nelly
13. Adore by Prince

Get the Thursday Thirteen code here!

The purpose of the meme is to get to know everyone who participates a little bit better every Thursday. Visiting fellow Thirteeners is encouraged! If you participate, leave the link to your Thirteen in others comments. It’s easy, and fun! Be sure to update your Thirteen with links that are left for you, as well! I will link to everyone who participates and leaves a link to their 13 things. Trackbacks, pings, comment links accepted!

Thought for The Week

2006-09-13T18:10:00.000-04:00

"You've got to love libraries. You've got to love books. You've got to love poetry. You've got to love everything about literature. Then, you can pick the one thing you love most and write about it."

~ Ray Bradbury

Are you Left or Right Brained?

2006-09-05T22:15:00.000-04:00

You Are 30% Left Brained, 70% Right Brained

The left side of your brain controls verbal ability, attention to detail, and reasoning.
Left brained people are good at communication and persuading others.
If you're left brained, you are likely good at math and logic.
Your left brain prefers dogs, reading, and quiet.

The right side of your brain is all about creativity and flexibility.
Daring and intuitive, right brained people see the world in their unique way.
If you're right brained, you likely have a talent for creative writing and art.
Your right brain prefers day dreaming, philosophy, and sports.

Are You Right or Left Brained?

2006-08-28T17:24:00.000-04:00

"Life is ten percent what happens to you and ninety percent how you respond to it. "
-- Lou Holtz

Recipe of the Week

2006-08-21T18:24:00.000-04:00

I've tried this recipe and found it to be great for a snack or even a late even dinner. I used egg in the breading process and it came out crispier.

FRIED RAVIOLI
(courtesy of Food Network - Giada De Laurentiis - Everyday Italian)

Ingredients:
Olive oil, for frying
1 cup buttermilk
2 cups Italian-style bread crumbs
1 box store-bought cheese ravioli (about 24 ravioli)
1/4 cup freshly grated Parmesan
1 jar store bought marinara sauce, heated, for dipping

Directions:
Pour enough olive oil into a large frying pan to reach a depth of 2 inches. Heat the oil over medium heat until a deep-fry thermometer registers 325 degrees F.

While the oil is heating, put the buttermilk and the bread crumbs in separate shallow bowls. Working in batches, dip ravioli in buttermilk to coat completely. Allow the excess buttermilk to drip back into the bowl. Dredge ravioli in the bread crumbs. Place the ravioli on a baking sheet, and continue with the remaining ravioli.

When the oil is hot, fry the ravioli in batches, turning occasionally, until golden brown, about 3 minutes. Using a slotted spoon, transfer the fried ravioli to paper towels to drain.

Sprinkle the fried ravioli with Parmesan and serve with a bowl of warmed marinara sauce for dipping.

Quote of the Week

2006-08-21T18:21:00.000-04:00

"Not to know is bad; not to wish to know is worse."

-African proverb

Recipe of the Week

2006-08-15T22:13:00.000-04:00

I usually change recipes to suit my own tastes so I made a few substitutions like with the seasonings, oysters and type of fish but it still came out good. My mother, who is a picky eater, loved it. If you try it, let me know what you think.

Seafood Jambalya

Ingredients:
2 Tbsp olive oil
1 lb. chorizo sausage, cut into thin slices
1 large bell pepper, any color, diced
1 large onion, diced
3 ribs celery, diced
1 small head garlic, cloves peeled and minced
Creole seasoning to taste
Salt and pepper
2 large tomatoes, cored, peeled, seeded, and chopped
1 lb. medium shrimp, peeled
1/2 lb. fish fillets, diced (trout, catfish, redfish, bass, or bluefish)
2 bay leaves
3 cups long-grain rice, rinsed
6 cups water
1 pint shucked oysters, with their liquor
2 bunches scallions, thinly sliced
1/4 tsp red Tabasco sauce, or to taste

Directions
Combine oil and sausage in a heavy-gauge pot or large wok over high heat, and sauté for about 5 minutes, stirring occasionally. Add the pepper, onion, celery, and garlic, and season with Creole seasoning, salt, and black pepper. Sauté, still over high heat, for about 10 minutes, or until the vegetables have browned and caramelized.

Add the tomatoes, shrimp, fish, and bay leaf, and stir. Add the rice, stir gently, and add the water. Gently move a spoon across the bottom of the pot, making sure that the rice is not sticking. Bring to a boil, then reduce the heat, cover, and simmer for about 15-20 minutes or until the rice has absorbed most of the liquid. Turn off the heat; fold in the oysters and scallions, cover, and let sit for about 10 minutes. The jambalaya will continue cooking from residual heat.

Writing Action/Fight Scenes and Writing the Kick Sass Heroine Q & A

2006-08-05T10:01:00.000-04:00

Writing Action/Fight Scenes and Writing the Kick Sass Heroine Q & A With some of the Hottest Paranormal Authors in the Genre!!

August, the 5th, 6th and 7th in the Diva Classroom!

Authors Attending:

Kelley Armstrong
CJ Barry
Sonia Singh
Cathy Clamp & C.T. Adams
Carrie Vaughn
Gena Showalter
LA Banks

Want to know how to write realistic fight and action scenes? Want to know what makes Mia, Eden, Kitty, Maya, Damali, Katie and Tru such KICK SASS heroines?

All you have to do is ask.

*Note: LA Banks will only be able to attend on Monday, August 7th!

Top 6 Favorite Writing Quotes

2006-08-04T17:57:00.000-04:00

1. I can fix a written page; I can't fix a blank one. - Nora Roberts.

2. You cannot use up creativity. The more you use the more you have. - Maya Angelou

3. Writing is like prostitution. First you do it for love, and then for a few close friends, and then for money. -Moliere

4. I was working on the proof of one of my poems all the morning, and took out a comma. In the afternoon I put it back again. - Oscar Wilde

5. If you don't have the time to read, you don't have the time or the tools to write. - Stephen King

6. You must keep sending work out; you must never let a manuscript do nothing but eat its head off in a drawer. You send that work out again and again, while you're working on another one. If you have talent, you will receive some measure of success - but only if you persist. - Issac Asimov

Romance Divas August Happenings

2006-07-31T19:26:00.000-04:00

Romance Divas
Author of the Month : Gemma Halliday – Contests workshop from the Golden Heart winner

Aug 5-7: Paranormal Event with Carrie Vaughn, LA Banks, CT Adams/Cathy Clamp, Gena Showalter, and Kelley Armstrong.

Aug 11 Jessica Faust: Bookends-inc agent in the Chatroom. 9 Eastern

August 8-18 :: Getting To Know The Voices in Your Head Workshop with Jo Ann Ferguson/Jocelyn Kelley

Aug 18 :: Theresa Meyers: PR/Promo in the Chatroom.

August 25 :: Ann Christopher, Patricia Sargeant, Maureen Smith and Sophia Shaw Multi-cultural Authors Chat

So True

2006-07-30T18:26:00.000-04:00

Hosted by Sparkle Tags

Things Found Online

2006-07-30T18:24:00.000-04:00

Hosted by Sparkle Tags

Right Now

2006-07-29T22:35:00.000-04:00

What would I be doing today if I wasn't at work?

Well since today was a hot one in the good "ole derrty Dee" also known as Detroit. I would have been enjoying the sunshine and spending time with my friends either at Belle Isle or walking around downtown.

But I'm at work so I did get to finish one book, Solid Soul by Brenda Jackson, on my to be read list and started another, Again by Sharon Cullars. So the day hasn't been wasted because I was able to read during my off-peak times.

I did a bit of writing, but it's hard to write at work with people coming to ask questions and all the inquisitive (read NOSY) people I work with. Not many know I'm a writer, or a writer of erotic romance.

The place I work is very conservative and it's easier and safer (for my job) that they don't know.

The bad thing is that I work tomorrow also. So I should have another book finished.

Diary of a Love - Part Two

2006-07-29T17:32:00.000-04:00

So what happened after Derek and Trina got married? Did they infact get married?

The next part of Trina's diary begins with her marriage to Derek and what happens afterward. Join them on their honeymoon and as they settle into married life. As they realize there's more to being married than just saying "I Do."

The story is still in process of being written so it hasn't even made it to the Synopsis and Proposal phase. Right now it's in the plotting and planning phase and will soon move to the actual writing phase.

I did it...

2006-07-29T17:30:00.000-04:00

I joined myspace.

Stop by and visit Angeleque's Diary

Another Great Blog Link

2006-06-06T21:23:00.000-04:00

Here's another great, informative blog.

Pub Rants Blog

Great Blogs Link

2006-06-06T20:59:00.000-04:00

Here is one blog that I've discovered recently and have been lurking on ever since.

Crabby Cows

They are honest, brutally so and you may need a thick skin if you submit. But submitting will do wonders. I must say that they are educational and entertaining too.

Njoy.

A Great way to start the week

2006-06-05T17:57:00.000-04:00

I figured I'd start the week with a little inspirational eye candy.

Enjoy.

Writing Advice

2006-06-01T16:48:00.000-04:00

One of the best piece's of advice I've recently about writing is:

There are no real rules, only guidelines.

A lot of the time as writer's we get bogged down with "The rules" and the "do's and don'ts".

Forget all that. Write the best story you can. Because if you worry about the "shouldn't do's", you run the risk of having a stagnated story that sounds like a bad carbon copy of someone else's writing/voice; Instead of writing from your heart and with your own voice.

I've found it's hard to write when that small voice in the back of your head says - stop, that's wrong, you're doing it wrong, you should do it this way. So I've learned to kill that inner critic, doubt demon and just write.

Then I'll worry about everything else, because the most important thing is getting the story down and finished.

So what's the best piece of writing advice you've received? Or a better question - what is the one piece of advice you follow and apply to your own writing?

A Little Thursday Inspiration

2006-06-01T15:03:00.000-04:00

2006-05-30T20:51:00.000-04:00

Enslave Me Sweetly by Gena Showalter

She has the heart of a killer, and the body of an angel. . .

Eden Black walks among humans, protecting them from the murderous evil of other-worlders who abduct and enslave. And though she appears to be human herself, Eden is an alien, a Raka, distinguished by her golden hair and skin, and gifted with the ominous ability to kill without remorse – and with total accuracy. That is, until the fateful night she has one shot to eliminate her target, a human slaver – and misses.

"Failure" is not in Eden's vocabulary. Neither is "partner" – but that's what she is forcibly assigned after recovering from her disastrous mission. A sexy, steely-nerved human agent, Lucius Adaire enjoys nothing more than sparking the fury – and rousing the desire – of the fiery female assassin to proud to admit defeat. Locked in an assignment they cannot afford to lose, Lucius and Eden find themselves bound in two high-stakes, heart-pounding games: the dangerous web of kill or be killed, and the erotic dance of seduction. . .

Showalter first demonstrated her skill at blending sizzling romance and nail-biting suspense set in a convincing futuristic society in Awaken Me Darkly (2005). She now continues the roller-coaster-like adventure in an equally entertaining tale that will please a wide cross section of readers. *Starred Review* Booklist.

Order your copy from Amazon, Barnes and Noble, or BooksAMillion.

For more information, visit Gena's website at http://www.genashowalter.com and her blog at http://www.genashowalter.blogspot.com

Old Diary Cover

2006-04-21T12:49:00.000-04:00

This is the cover as it stands now.

About Diary of a Love: Trina never dreamed that work would threaten the deep relationship she had with her fiancé Derek, the talented leader of Throwback, an up and coming Jazz group just ready to release their first CD. Their love connection has become more about hurried sex than the deep bond they shared from the start. In order to heat up their faltering relationship, Trina tries some drastic measures. Will she get through to Derek? Or will their love become another entry into the diary of her life?

Today must be...

2006-04-21T12:41:00.000-04:00

UPDATE Day.

I have some news in the works concerning Diary of a Love. We are in the process of re-working the cover so those who may not have liked the first one, I hope you like the new one.

Promises

2006-04-21T12:38:00.000-04:00

I'm going to prommise to try to do better and update my blog more regularly. But with life, my day job and finding writing time it's hard sometimes to keep up.

The good thing is that the long hours 10, 12 and 14 hour days are gone until October.

And it's SPRING. So enjoy the weather, bask in the sunshine and have fun.

Ugly Feet E-mail/Summer Open Toe Shoe Pledge

2006-04-21T12:37:00.000-04:00

Something fun and true.

Ugly Feet E-mail/Summer Open Toe Shoe Pledge

I got this in an email and I thought I had to share. I do not know who the original author was, put thanks to that person for laying it down.

Alright it's that time of year "once" again!!! And based on this email that someone passed along to me I think we need to be reminded of a few things. So my sisters, PLEASE, raise your big toes and repeat after me below....

The Open Toed Shoe Pledge
As a member of the Cute Girl Sisterhood, I pledge to follow the Rules
when wear sandals and other open-toe shoes:

I promise to always wear sandals that fit. My toes will not hang over
and touch the ground, nor will my heels spill over the backs. And the sides
and tops of my feet will not pudge out between the straps.

I will go polish-free or vow to keep the polish fresh, intact and chip-free.
I will not cheat and just touch up my big toe.

I will sand down any mounds of skin before they turn hard and yellow.

I will shave the hairs off my big toe.

I won't wear pantyhose even if my misinformed girlfriend, coworker,
mother or sister tells me the toe seam really will stay under my toes if I tuck it there.

If a strap breaks, I won't duct-tape, pin, glue or tuck it back into
place hoping it will stay put. I will get my shoe fixed or toss it.

I will not live in corn denial; rather I will lean on my good friend Dr.
Scholl's if my feet need him.

I will resist the urge to buy jelly shoes at Payless for the low, low
price of $4.99 even if my feet are small enough to fit into the kids' sizes. This
is out of concern for my safety, and the safety of others. No one can walk
properly when standing in a pool of sweat and I would hate to take someone down
with me as I fall and break my ankle.

I will take my toe ring off toward the end of the day if my toes swell
and begin to look like Vienna sausages.

I will be brutally honest with my girlfriend/sister/coworker when she
asks me if her feet are too ugly to wear sandals. Someone has to tell her that
her toes are as long as my fingers and no sandal makes creepy feet look
good.

I will promise if I wear flip flops that I will ensure that they actually flip
and flop, making the correct noise while walking and I will swear NOT
to slide or drag my feet while wearing them.

I will promise to go my local nail salon at least once per season and
have a real pedicure (they are about $20 and worth EVERY penny).

I will promise to throw away any white/off-white sandals that show signs
of wear... nothing is tackier than dirty white sandals.

Don't keep this to yourself - pass it on to other sisters.

Is it February Already?

2006-02-11T21:28:00.000-05:00

I've been busy writing.

And now I'm re-working cause halfway through plotting and doing my outline for my new WIP - The Best Revenge which is a multi-cultural, erotic romance - I'm having to rework the WIP because of my uncooperative hero.

He doesn't like one of the conflicts and now I have to find a way to re-write it with new twists and turn to keep it exciting and hopefully still be a page turner. Okay, so I was plotting and realized that the middle half and end part of the outline the hero was inconsistent and his character arc was lopsided.

The problem is coming up with a new plot and new conflicts and twists since the one I had to remove was a major one.

It's good that I'm attempting to be more organized and focusing on my writing because my goal is to be published again by 2007.

I have four WIPs that I will be focusing on this year.

The Best Revenge -- An Erotic Romance (80000 words)
Untitled -- Erotic Fiction with some romantic elements (90000 words)
Someone to Share It With -- Sensual, Multi-Cultural Romance (85000 words)
Untitled -- Paranormal African American Chick Lit with romantic elements

I also have plans to get back to my chick lit manuscripts on more of a regular basis.
On the backburner is my fantasy/parnormal sensual novel.

-"So many Ideas so little time"

Sexy Name Decoder

2006-01-19T19:49:00.000-05:00

What kind of writer are you?

2005-12-16T10:33:00.000-05:00

You're a Plot writer!

What kind of writer are you?
brought to you by Quizilla

A Day Off

2005-12-16T10:30:00.000-05:00

It's my day off and what am I going to do.

Write, Read and Sleep.

Not necessarily in that order.

I've already plotted one novella and working on another.
I haven't had a day off, a whole day with nothing to do but what I want in so long
I don't know how to act.

Off for more Writing, Reading and Sleeping.

What's YOUR Writing Style?

2005-12-16T10:18:00.000-05:00

You are a romantic writer. You're ALWAYS writing
about some significant other--about lacking
one, about wanting one, about having one, about
being with one--it doesn't matter. If it
involves even a tiny ounce of love, you're
there! Much into the works of Christina
Rossetti and the works of Alfred Tennyson, you
are a bit of a classical writer as well....but,
for the sake of all things cheesy, you're more
of a hopeless romantic than a classical writer.
You write whatever comes to mind--which usually
involves a significant other. ^^; Oh well. If
literary geniuses don't do it, who will, right?

What's YOUR Writing Style?
brought to you by Quizilla

Review - Diary of a Love - Coffee Time Romance

2005-12-15T21:44:00.000-05:00

Another good review has come in for Diary of a Love.

This time it is from Coffee Time Romance.

Ms. Santiago has given us an afternoon delight on what it takes for a relationship to endure, remembering the good times when the bad times overwhelm us. The characters and the situation was believable, as well as the emotional ups and downs. I look forward to seeing more of this author’s work.

Kimber
Reviewer for Coffee Time Romance
Reviewer for Karen Find Out About New Books

3 cups

Read the full review here.

Review - Diary of a Love - Romance Divas

2005-12-15T21:36:00.000-05:00

My first review is in for Diary of a Love.

Diary of Love is an erotic love story that is in a league of its own! The characters and plot were surprisingly well developed for such a short novel. There is nothing hotter than a sexy musician or the woman who loves him. Angeleque Santiago is an awesome storyteller. Diary of Love is a must read! I will be recommending this to all my friends.

5 kisses

Reviewed by: Diamond Taylor
Reviewed for: RomanceDivas.com

Read the full review here.

The Email

2005-12-15T21:22:00.000-05:00

Here's another article which was published by Romance Diva's for the Blog.

--

“We’d officially like to aquire…”

When I first read those words, I was shocked. For years I’ve known I could write, wanted to write, wanted to be a published author.

How did it happen?

I originally wrote a story for a contest, small 300 word piece. I didn’t win in the contest but was encouraged to submit it to publishers. I was undecided and scared, what if they hated it and called me a no talent hack. What if no one wanted to publish it.

Then I thought, what if someone did...

No Matter What Just Keep On Writing

2005-12-15T21:18:00.000-05:00

My new article on the Romance Diva's Blog is now up.
It was published under my other Pen Name - Jayna Gardner.

--

Every day we are faced with challenges, dilemmas, situations and LIFE.

It has a way of getting in the way and interrupting a good time and our regularly scheduled routines. One day you’re going along and BAM – lifetus interruptus. Yes, that’s a made up word but I’m a writer and I’m using a bit of creative license here.

As a writer I battle almost daily with page counts, word counts and sleeping versus writing. I’ve learned through lifetus interruptus that I can exist, survive on 3 hours sleep a day. There are also other factors to consider....

SORMAG's 2005 Online Conference

2005-10-12T21:51:00.000-04:00

You're invited to SORMAG's 2005 Online Conference

When - October 23-29, 2005

Where: SORMAG Blog

Time: 24/7 the conference is open all day. There will be no chats, so you're free to stop by anytime and attend.

Price: FREE!

Prizes: There will be doorprizes for those who participate.

Tell your friends, we have something for the writer and reader.

We have 50 authors and four editors attending this year. Don't miss out on the knowledge and fun.

Go to the blog and check out the schedule.

Harlequin acquires BET Books

2005-10-10T21:25:00.000-04:00

TORONTO, Oct. 6 /PRNewswire/ - Harlequin Enterprises Limited today announced the purchase of the assets of BET BOOKS, the publishing arm of Black Entertainment Television. The new ownership deal is expected to close November 30, 2005.

This is a key acquisition for Harlequin, and represents a strengthening of the Company's strategic position as one of the world's leading publishers of women's fiction. The addition of BET Books, a leading publisher of African American women's fiction and the imprints Arabesque, Sepia and New Spirit, to the Harlequin portfolio will enhance the position of Harlequin within a strong growth segment in the US book market.

"This acquisition supports a key strategic initiative for Harlequin of offering greater breadth in publishing niches that can create future growth for the overall Harlequin franchise. The BET editorial strategy dovetails perfectly with that of Harlequin - romance, women's fiction and inspirational publishing," states Donna Hayes, Publisher and CEO. "We are delighted that Linda Gill has agreed to join Harlequin and lead the growth of this new venture, which combines BET Books with Harlequin's own African American program. We are also very pleased to associate ourselves with such an excellent group of authors and are confident that under Linda Gill's strong leadership, we will continue to build a strong publishing program for these authors," says Hayes.

ABOUT HARLEQUIN ENTERPRISES LIMITED

-----------------------------------

Harlequin Enterprises Limited is the global leader in series romance and one of the world's leading publishers of women's fiction, with titles issued worldwide in 25 languages and sold in 94 international markets. The company produces over 115 titles monthly and publishes more than 1,300 authors from around the world. Harlequin Enterprises Limited is a wholly owned subsidiary of Torstar Corporation, a broadly based media company listed on the Toronto Stock Exchange (TS.nv.b). Harlequin's Web site is located at www.eHarlequin.com. Harlequin has offices in 18 countries including Toronto, New York and London. For more information please visit www.eHarlequin.com or press.eHarlequin.com.

ABOUT BET

---------

BET, a subsidiary of Viacom, Inc. (NYSE: VIA and VIA.B), is the nation's leading television network providing quality entertainment, music, news and public affairs programming for the African-American audience. The BET Network reaches more than 79 million households according to Nielsen media research, and can be seen in the United States, Canada and the Caribbean. BET is a dominant consumer brand in the urban marketplace with a diverse group of branded businesses: BET.com, the Number 1 Internet portal for African Americans; BET Digital Networks - BET Jazz, BET Gospel and BET Hip Hop, attractive alternatives for cutting-edge entertainment tastes; BET Event Productions, specializing in a full range of event production services, including event management, venue selection, talent recruitment, sound, lighting and stage production; and BET Books, the nation's leading publisher of African-American themed romance novels under the Arabesque imprint which also publishes compelling fiction under the Sepia imprint and inspirational fiction and nonfiction under the New Spirit imprint.

SOURCE Harlequin Enterprises Ltd. -0- 10/06/2005 /CONTACT: Katherine Orr, (416) 391-7025; Christine Saunders, (212) 553-4226/ CO: Harlequin Enterprises Ltd. ST: Ontario IN: PUB SU: TNM -30- RM -- TO054 -- 0000 10/06/2005 15:30 EDT http://www.prnewswire.com

New Release

2005-10-10T21:08:00.000-04:00

Diary of a Love my erotic romance story is officially available for download from AphroditeUnlaced.com

I'm so excited. I think I stared at the website for like 10 minutes just looking at the cover and the page it's on.

It grew from 300 words to almost 7000. From a contest challange involving the senses to a hot, romantic, erotic African American story.

And it is now available for download for $2.99 through Aphrodite Unlaced.

Check it out as well as the bio and excerpt.

It's OFFICIAL

2005-10-07T23:50:00.000-04:00

"Diary of a Love" will be ready on the Aphrodite Unlaced website probably sometime
this weekend.

Things went faster than expected. The cover is all done and looks fantastic. Now it's on to phase 2 - promotion and website.

I'll post the official word when it's up and available for purchase.

Diary of a Love

2005-09-27T22:02:00.000-04:00

Diary of a Love - my originally 300 word contest piece for Desdemonda.com has turned into an 5000 word piece which will be published in the near future by Aphrodite Unlaced.

The contract is in the mail and the cover being designed.

A Big Announcement Coming Soon

2005-09-10T13:15:00.000-04:00

Check back within the next few weeks because Angeleque will have a big announcement soon.

Update and Explanation

2005-09-10T13:10:00.000-04:00

You may be wondering where I've been. Of course, you may not be wondering too.

But here's the scoop:

I've been writing. And getting organized.

Busy submitting and querying. I did enter the Harlequin Blazing Summer Contest but only with one entry not the original three. I still have the other two plotted and planned though.

Submitted a couple of queries to agents.

Working on my Harlequin Epic, Spice and a AA romance which I hope to submit to either BET, the new AA line at Harlequin or Kensington (when I get that agent).

A Busy September

2005-09-10T12:58:00.000-04:00

Hey everyone,

Be sure to check out these wonderful and educational activities for the month of September over at Romance Divas.

September Activities

Chat with Dorcester Sr. Editor, Chris Keeslar on Sept. 15th 9PM EST

Don't miss this chat. It's sure to be a fun and informative time!

Free Workshop with Author Of The Month Candace Havens:

Candace Havens presents Fast Draft: How to write your first draft in two weeks. Really.

Week of September 18th, 2005

Fast Draft is way to get through the terror of the first draft in a fast and efficient manner. Why draw it out over several months, when you can have a first draft in just two weeks? Using creative techniques you’ll learn how to write more pages a day than you ever thought possible. This class works for new writers as well as seasoned professionals, and allows writers to flesh out a story fast to see if it will work.

Q & A with Deidre Knight:

During the week of Sept 18th, Super Agent Deidre Knight will be answering questions in a special section of the forum aptly titled, "Ask Deidre". Don't miss this opportunity to get those questions answer and get to know this fabulous woman!

Find out more: The Knight Agency or The Knight Agency Blog

See you online!

A Favorite Quote of mine

2005-06-08T03:17:00.000-04:00

"Twenty years from mow you will be more disappointed by the things you didn't do than by the ones you did do. So throw off the bow lines. Sail away from the safe harbor. Catch the trade winds in your sail. Explore. Dream. Discover." -- Mark Twain

It helps sum up why I keep writing, even with the rejection.

If I didn't write, I'd probably go crazy. I love the entire creative process involved in writing a book from concept to finished manuscript.

Now if only I could find an easy way to do a synopsis then I'd be happy.

ERWA - Erotic Romance Writers Association

2005-06-07T23:26:00.000-04:00

Erotic Romance Writers Association:

"We're a non-profit association of published and non-published professional writers, dedicated to promoting the highest standards in the erotic romance genre.

We believe erotic romance, and those associated with the genre (ie.publishers, cover artists) merit the recognition and acceptancecurrently provided to other established romance genres, without censorhip.

We shall seek to encourage and advance the erotic romance genre, by providing advocacy, leadership, and educational opportunities -- both within the organization and to the general public at large."

I joined this group a couple of weeks ago and wanted to put out the call to others who might read my writing journal. We are in the preliminary stages now of setting this organization up, so input from fellow erotic romance writers, editors, publishers, cover artists, etc. is greatly appreciated. Please join us and help us to build this organization.

-Join Here-

Comments Please

2005-06-07T22:46:00.000-04:00

Comments are welcomed and appreciated on all my posts so feel free to say what you want/feel - even if we may not agree with each other. I welcome your thoughts and opinions.

A healthy debate is good.

What gives you the right?

2005-06-07T22:45:00.000-04:00

Yet another moved post ---

I'm an avid reader.

Heh heh heh! No big surprise there right? I mean I usually am right 2 or perhaps 3 books at a time. People ask me how, why, etc. I don't know. I get bored easily. I lose things a lot, right now I don't know where my glasses are and I need those to see. But that's not the point. Just like I have 3 different manuscripts being written at the same time, while not simultaneously cause even I'm not that crazy, when I get blocked or frustrated or think my writings crap (depending on my day and the way the wind of life is blowing) I pick up a different manuscript cause as I said I get bored easily. Again not the point.

I love to read. I have books from high school, even elementary school still.

Okay the point - I don't like reviews. I try not to read them. And I often wonder who gives the reviewer the right to review? What are the credentials? Qualifications?

Just a love of books? I have that.
A degree in English? I have that too.

A lot of books I get I buy either from the cover art is interesting and the blurb interested me and i've browsed a few pages and it caught my attention. Or from word of mouth like Michael Baisden's God's Gift to Women my best friend recommended it and I agree, excellent book. Now if I had just went by the reviews, I probably would have passed on it.

How many people have passed up a good book because of a bad review? Or picked up a bad book because of a good review?

Aren't reviews just another person's opinion? I mean, when did we start letting others dictate what would be of interest to us in reading and in life. Why should their opinion matter and not our own? Why don't we trust ourselves? Obviously something about the book must have interested us or we wouldn't have picked it up right?

Sometimes I think I'm going to start a book review site with my friends and co-workers who read. We read all types of books.

But me, I'll focus on the "black" books. The African American, Multicultural and even erotic romance and erotica books because they get a lot of bum rap in reviews.

I have a degree in African Studies so that should qualify me right? I read alot? And I have sex sometimes so I know what turns me on.

So - do you read reviews? Go by word of mouth?

A Good Comeback

2005-06-07T22:44:00.001-04:00

Another Writing Related post that needs to be moved --

When asked why it takes me so long to work on and complete a manuscript?

My response - I'm sorry but I only have 26 letters to work with.

It amazes me how easy people think it is to write a book. Let me correct that a good book and then to get it requested, agented or published.

Also I'm reminded of the fact that if it were that easy to do then everyone would be doing it. Kinda like breathing.

Now most people can write, if they are literate, and that's not a slam. But a lot of people can't write.

Understand?

Let me further clarify, it's not as easy as it looks. It's more than just throwing words on a paper or typing them into a word processing program.

So thinking about this, writers are a rare breed of people. Personally sometimes I think you have to be alittle bit loco to want to write a book. Do you understand the criticism and rejection that you are opening yourself up to?

To write a book, to want to write a good book and get it published for hopeffully millions of people to read - you have to be or have:

strength
independent
thinker - quick, advanced, free
persistent
manipulative
perserverance
thick skin
imaginative
desire
go-getter
open-minded
heart

Ignorance is Bliss

2005-06-07T22:44:00.000-04:00

Okay here's a post from my personal blog - I'm moving it here cause it's writing related/relevant:

why oh why must there be idiots in this world?

I'm a writer. And if I hear the words, "Not black enough." or "Need to inject more realism" into my manuscript or into a friends manuscript or even an established author's book ---- I will scream.

One of my completed multi-cultural manuscripts, which I let my critique partner read. And really, it's no problem (she does what she does. helps me out. debates certain issues of the story).

I like that. but then we got on the topic of job choice for characters.

Because a third member of the group, a non-writer - strictly a proofreader and continuity checker says --- "aren't you afraid of making them too Huxtable-ly".

Now I know what she means and I pointed out that Huxtable-ly is not a word but I also pointed out that there are black doctors, lawyers, rocket sciencist, engineers, etc. Then she wanted to add more "flavor, ethnicity" to the story - perk it up some. well i thought the story was/is perky.

and I don't write "perky".

--- Sidebar: Can someone define perky for me? In reference to writing? Cause truthfully I don't get it. -Okay back to the rant/ramble: ---

Of course, I'm curious, have a way too overactive imagination and I've been told I think too much, so of course, me being me, wondered if she meant making them gangstas, drug dealers, unwed teenage mothers, drug addicted, poor, living in the ghetto, etc. So I asked if she was hinting or trying to infer that it wasn't "black" enough. Which I totally hate and really really pisses me off. Why do my characters have to smoke marijuanna, roll their eyes and necks with their hands on their hips wearing 4 inch blood red nails and 5 inch heels?

Answer - they don't. but it just really frustrate me that someone would say/imply/think that.

Making the transition

2005-06-07T22:42:00.000-04:00

I'm moving some of my more writer related posts from my personal blog over here.

Is that a new RWA rule in your pocket or are you just glad to see me?

2005-06-07T20:43:00.000-04:00

A link to Lee Goldberg's post on the RWA.

Caught in the Storm

2005-06-06T20:07:00.000-04:00

Another one to run up the flag pole. Comments and suggestions are welcome.

This was inspired by the rain storm last night --

Casual sex with strangers wasn't Miranda Garvey's style.

Miranda sauntered into Meridian's Nightclub dressed in a cinnamon colored wrapped dressed which accentuated her full figure and now slimmer waistline. She wore an exact match cinnamon open-toed stilleto.

She couldn't have timed her entrance any better if she had actually planned it. She stepped through the thick glass door seperating the front from the inner sanctum of the club, just as the music stopped. Immediately, she scanned the club looking for her prey for the evening and she found him, across the room, looking her directly in the eyes.

Her breath caught in her throat as the music began and the chocolate adonis made his way towards her. Having never done this before and not wanting to seem to open or to desperated, Miranda went to stand by the bar. She attempted to get the bartendars attention but they were focused at the other end of the long mahongoney bar, away from her.

"What are you drinking?" the chocolate adonis asked. He sounded, she imagined, like molasses would if it could speak. Thick, rich, and making the hairs on her neck stand up.

Accidental Soulmates

2005-06-06T19:53:00.000-04:00

Okay haven't thought of a title for this one yet - so the title to this post is just off the top of my head.

How does this sound for an opening --

It started like everything else in her life, by accident.

Lettie Wilson was the most accident prone and the luckiest person on the planet. She got her car, apartment and job all by accident. All by being in the right place at the wrong time.

So when Lettie began her affair with soon-to-be married Derrick Redford, it of course began by accident.

---

Comments and thoughts on the title? Suggestions?

2005-06-06T17:38:00.000-04:00

Haloscan commenting and trackback have been added to this blog.

ERWF BLOG CIRCLE PRESS RELEASE

2005-06-06T14:12:00.000-04:00

ERWF BLOG CIRCLE PRESS RELEASE (1):

"Dark Erotica" is not a phrase that immediately makes a lot of sense. After all erotica is "come hither" and dark implies "run, run for your lives!" However on some strange and visceral level there is a peculiar similarity between lust and fear, And there is no doubt that a blending of the two is easily found from the "holy dread" described in the classic poem "Kubla Khan" to Anita Blake’s love triangle with a werewolf and a vampire lord.

Logical Lust, an e-publisher of diverse erotica, is the last to mine this rich seam. "Eternally Noir" is a dark erotica anthology including sixteen stories including a startling variety of ideas and sexualities. The stories range from openly amusing to genuinely spooky and are, in my entirely biased opinion, well worth the $3.95:

http://www.eternallyerotic.com/eternallynoir.html

Welcome

2005-06-06T10:42:00.000-04:00

Welcome to my blog.

I am angeleque.

I write sensual romantic fiction and romantic erotica fiction. This is my blog about my writing journeys.

Enjoy and feel free to comment.