Amy Ruttan

Release Day & Gorillas!

2012-01-12T08:56:00.000-08:00

Bentley Gal is out today! WOOT!

I'm really excited it's here. If you like the roaring 20's, car racing and some romance then you'll want to read Bentley Gal. I had a blast writing it.

To celebrate it's release I'm blogging over at Shiloh Walker's today about the story behind the story, which is gorillas.

I'm giving away a ebook copy of Bentley Gal & a little stuffed gorilla! :) He's so cute. So comment over at Shiloh's for a chance to win!

As for the writing 2k a day, I've been doing it. I did fall of the wagon the other night when my bronchitis returned, but so far today I've written 1k. Last Friday I also managed to finish off a WIP. I'll be editing that Sunday before sending to my critique partner for her to tear it apart. >:)

My bronchitis relapse is clearing up so I'm slowing getting back into my exercise routine again. I couldn't finish all of Power 90 Sweat Phase 1 today ...there was 6 minutes left and I started to have problems breathing and felt faint so I stopped, but its baby steps to get back into my routine after months of bronchitis. Blech.

Have a great day everyone!

Resolutions

2012-01-03T11:48:00.000-08:00

It's a new year and with that comes the inevitable RESOLUTIONS. It's a bit of a dirty word. I mean right now the gyms and diet programs are seeing an influx while people cram in there to lose weight as one of their resolutions.

I admit I have been on that band wagon, but since I feel self conscious about working out in public in August I started doing Power 90. It was going great until I was hit with a month of bronchitis, but I've slowly started getting back into my routine and thankfully my month away from exercising only cost me the gain of a pound.

With health resolutions under way, it was time I made a resolution to do something a bit more with my writing. I've had a bit of a burnout this year. Things set me back.

Now, I couldn't care less about those things which set me back and I've under taken to write 2k a day.

Here's my score so far:

January 1: 3,ooo
January 2: 3,761
January 3: (Currently working on it and will update later)

Of course it helps to have friends who I have given these resolutions to and who are keeping me on track. I have so much to write, it was getting overwhelming, but now writing a minimum of 2k a day is getting me through the WIPs on a more manageable pace.

We'll see how this momentum keeps up. I know for a fact it will be extremely difficult during the summer because we're going on a cross country trek out West. I am extremely excited, but it'll mean long days on the road and possibly a hand cramp as I write long hand.

Have you made any resolutions?

2011 In Review

2011-12-31T19:47:00.000-08:00

This past year has been an interesting one, for lack of a better of year.

I joined two group blogs, Beyond the Veil and Silken Sheets & Seduction.

I had several book releases, including one under my other name A.C. Ruttan which was not a romance at all. Incarnate was a book I had long been looking forward to.

I was able to attend Romanticon 2011 in Akron, Ohio and meet many of the fabulous people at Ellora's Cave, who were my first publisher. Met so many fabulous readers and writers and of course I met the wonderful, charming and handsome Cavemen.

Last year also brought loss. I lost a very dear friend. He was my bf's hubby, he was the godfather to my youngest. He was family. He tragically died after a routine surgery and the summer was shadowed with sorrow. It still hurts 6 months later. However, a piece of him lives on in his beautiful two-year-old boy and his newborn son who was just born a couple of weeks ago.

My husband also lost his grandmother. She died on her 95th birthday. Peacefully and that's all we can ask for.

I'm hoping 2012 is a lot better, in that respect. It's already shaping up well.

My first release of 2012 is Bentley Gal from Ellora's Cave *Blush*.

I also sold a bear-shifter story to Ellora's Cave. He's a Mountie! :) So sometime next year Mounted Release will be coming out.

I have other things in the works I can't really divulge yet, but I'm excited about.

The new year also brings about a trip I've been dying to take for some time. We're driving across country for my sister-in-law's wedding. I'm really looking forward to that. It's also my tenth wedding anniversary, which is hard for me to believe. I still feel like a newlywed some days.

I think 2012 will be a great year. I wish you and yours a safe and Happy New Year.

Happy Holidays

2011-12-24T06:00:00.000-08:00

However you celebrate it I hope that you have a great one and a very happy New Year!

See you in 2012.

Lots of love,

Amy

Whoa

2011-12-16T08:43:00.001-08:00

And November escaped me there, but I did get a lot accomplished and off my very full plate.

December is slipping by faster than I care to admit. Heck, where did this entire year go?

I showed a little teaser a couple months ago about a bear shifter, well I'm pleased to announce that book was accepted by my editor at Ellora's Cave. Look for MOUNTED RELEASE in the new year sometime.

Speaking of 2012. My first release of 2012 is January 12, 2012 from Ellora's Cave. It's a Blush book, so spicy romance titled Bentley Gal, which is set in the roaring twenties and deals with a woman race car driver.

I'm very pleased it's releasing.

I also have some other exciting things in the works which I hope to be able to share with you soon.

Guest Blogger Julia Phillips Smith

2011-11-18T11:12:00.001-08:00

Ok, first my apologies. This should've gone up this morning, but I had parent teacher interviews all day LONG and poor Julia was sick too. Oy.

But she's here now and I'm thrilled to have her. I could gush for hours how much I love Julia and how I was looking forward to this book, but I'll hand over the *mic* to her now!

5 on Friday – Set 92
Thanks for having me here today, Amy.

On Fridays, I join with other music lovers for a meme hosted by Travis @ Trav’s Thoughts, where we put together a five-tune set. To play along or to see what other bloggers are showcasing today, visit:
http://travsthoughts.blogspot.com/2011/11/five-on-friday-set-95.html

This week, I’m revisiting a few tunes from previous sets which introduced the main characters in my debut novel, SAINT SANGUINUS. Then I’m spinning a few new tunes for two supporting characters.
~
An elite brotherhood stands between humans and vampires, preventing one side from annihilating the other. Who are called to this service? Only those warriors who curse God with their dying breath.

Welsh warrior Peredur falls to a spear before he can claim Tanwen for his bride. Raging on the battlefield, Peredur utters the curse that seals his fate and leads him to another life. Using the power of a saint whose bone makes up an amulet, Peredur takes on the trials to become a true member of the brethren. Yet his need for the chieftain’s daughter Tanwen still burns.

Tanwen resists her father’s command to take a husband. The only one who understands her sorrow is Cavan, the wise woman’s son. When he promises that he can reunite her with her beloved, she agrees to his terms. But does Tanwen truly understand the depth of the price that must be paid?

1 – I Who Have Nothing – Tom Jones
Who better for Welsh warrior Peredur than sexy Welsh singer Tom Jones?

2 – You Make Me Wanna Die – The Pretty Reckless
Tanwen can’t see what’s so bad about this option.

3 – Voodoo Child (Slight Return) – Jimi Hendrix
Love triangle member along with Peredur and Tanwen, Cavan is the wise woman’s son, a village outsider with a secret.

4 – Suspicion – Elvis Presley
Lord Muirdach is the clan vampire lord who rightly holds suspicions

5 – Oh Death – Jen Titus
Melnak is the member of the vampire Brotherhood who collects Peredur from his last battlefield

ALIVE

2011-11-10T14:52:00.000-08:00

Yes, I'm still alive.

I got knocked out on my return from Romanticon with bronchitis and sinusitis. On top of that I've been a busy little Canuck author deep in her cave, writing, writing and writing.

I have some cool news to share!

First up, LAIRD'S RETURN by Scottish Victorian Romance was an ARe recommended read!

WOOT!

Here's a little snippet of the AWESOME review by Lady Rhyleigh:

Exciting, arousing and romantic, Laird’s Return had my attention riveted from the beginning.

Second piece of news, I have a date in which INCARNATE will be released in print. It's coming to a bookstore near you on June 5, 2012! Yes, I busy working on it's sequel.

Third piece of news, Laird's Return is available at Chapters. This makes me extremely happy. It's a dream come true to see a book of mine in a local bookstore! Squee!

And finally, BENTLEY GAL has a release date! YAY! Look for my 1920's Blush Romance from Ellora's Cave on January 12, 2012.

New Release: Gladiator's Seduction

2011-10-12T00:00:00.000-07:00

WOOT! Romanticon rocked and I'll do a recap in a couple of days. I'm still trying to play catch-up and get over yet another cold.

Not only is today my 9th anniversary with my DH, but release day for my first ever menage from Ellora's Cave titled GLADIATOR'S SEDUCTION.

Not only is it a menage, but also the first book I've written with a M/M scene.

Lots of firsts in this book.

I'm pretty nervous about it to be honest, because it's my first menage and first M/M scene. I hope you enjoy it as much as I enjoyed writing it.

Darius and Jason have been hiding secrets. Several secrets, including the fact that Darius is still a slave to the Roman Empire. They have vowed to keep Darius’ identity safe, but both of them are lying to each other and neither of them know what the other knows, until an Egyptian seductress is placed in their midst.

Husn can immediately tell the men desire each other as much as they desire her, and she feels it is her duty to bring them together—as it is her duty to kill them both.

Husn will fight the purist sect that wants to place a Ptolemy heir back on the pharaoh’s throne, but they hold her sister’s life in their hands. Husn must decide if she can turn to the two men she loves, or if she will have to use their secret to destroy them.

Six Sentence Sunday

2011-09-24T23:55:00.001-07:00

This is my last Six Sentence Sunday before Romanticon! I'm so excited about Wednesday, that's when I begin my journey down to Ohio.

This week I'm featuring my urban fantasy/demon & angel title, Incarnate from Samhain Publishing.

The setup: She's a guardian of portals between Heaven/Hell and Earth. She is one of the many who keep the book of Revelations from coming true, only someone has started killing off Guardians. The portal she guards is in Yellowknife and she drives a big rig on the ice roads since nothing comes through her portal during the winter months.

Gripping the stick, I tried to downshift to avoid the hole that opened up in the middle of the ice road. The brakes felt like Jell-O and though my truck slowed, it was pointless. I slid right for the hole. The black, frigid water looked like a giant mouth about to swallow me whole.

This was it.

This was how I was to die for the second time.

Have a great Sunday. I'm off to the in laws where's there's no Internet access. I'll be making my rounds later tonight.

New Team Blog

2011-09-24T05:25:00.000-07:00

I'm over at Silken Sheets & Seduction today talking about what I think is sexy.

Don't forget the MASSIVE giveaway is still running there.

It's HUGE.

Drop by and say Hi.

Sunday Six

2011-09-18T00:00:00.000-07:00

For this week's SSS on thought I do my most recent Ellora's Cave book as in two weeks I will be heading to Romanticon! I am very excited.

I'll be there for the entire conference, but if you're in the Akron Ohio are Ellora's Cave is having a HUGE booksinging/sale at the Ramanda downtown Akron and it's open free to the public, as long as you're over 18.

I'll be sigining there that day.

So the setup for this weeks is the heroine, Angela has the hots for her postman and he's delivering something C.O.D.

“Twelve fifty exactly,” he smiled up at me again, those chocolate eyes raking my body. My nipples hardened under his appreciative gave, my blood firing and my body humming with anticipation. He was looking at my outfit. My tennis outfit that consisted of a short, pleated, white skirt and halter top.

“Going to hit a few balls?” he asked innocently.

I tried not to choke at his remark.

Guest Blog-Anya Delvay

2011-09-13T08:59:00.000-07:00

I'm super excited to have Anya here. She's one of my fantastic CPs and her debut Ellora's Cave release is something worth celebrating for sure.

I love this book. I loved it the first time I got a glimpse at it and it was then I told her to pitch her idea during a pitch contest at Passionate Reads.

After much arm twisting she did and...well I'll let her explain.

It’s all Amy’s fault.

Yeah, I know, that’s a line usually reserved for her husband, kids and other assorted relatives to use, but in this case she deserves it.

There I was, minding my own business, when Miss Busybody emails me with a link and this message:
An EC editor is having a pitch contest. Manuscript doesn't have to be finished to pitch.
Chance to get past the slush!!!!!

Huh, nice email to send to a friend whose going through an extreme case of writer’s constipation. She insisted I pitch to Grace Bradley at the Passionate Reads blog, forced me to hone a half-baked idea into a somewhat viable blurb and twisted my arm until I said I’d give it a go. [I freely admit it. *grin*]

Then she threatened me! Said she knew my husband would back her if I didn’t pitch and she had to come over to kick my butt.

Worse of all, she was right…

I pitched, making sure she knew I had to go hurl after I hit send.

That was January of this year, 2011. I know because I looked up the email and chat logs. This is September, and last Friday the book I wrote based on that pitch, Beyond Prudence, was released by Ellora’s Cave. You can watch the video here, and read an excerpt here. I’ve also included a short additional excerpt below, featuring Amy’s favourite secondary character.
*shakes head*

Yep, it’s all her fault.

Thanks Amy, for the faith and the *whippah* and the encouragement when I was absolutely, positively sure it would never work.
Couldn’t have done it without you!

Anya Richards
Journeys Through Seduction

Blurb:

The mysterious device in Prudence Hastings’ basement could be the answer to her prayers, if she could just figure out what it is. Needing William Foreman’s help, she’s prepared to do whatever it takes to gain it. Even putting aside her dislike of machines and volunteering to test the risqué apparatus he’s developing for the Acolytes of Concupiscence.

Will’s expecting a lightskirt for a test subject and is horrified when he realizes the tempting woman he just debauched is very much a lady. But despite his best intentions, something keeps drawing him back to her, and it isn’t just the thought of discovering the inner workings of her uncle’s last invention. Unlocking their passion is turning out to be a far more pleasurable, if dangerous, job.

Beset by desire, automatons, secrets, an unintelligible maid and the danger of utter ruin should their association become known, Will and Prudence haven’t a chance in hell of remaining unscathed.

Fire up the boiler, open the sluices and take cover. Something’s about to explode…

Excerpt:
This had to stop. Torturing himself with desires that were best forgotten would serve no purpose. Prudence Hastings was far beyond his reach in the most important ways there were, and nothing good would come of their continued association. In fact, if what they had done became known the scandal would be horrendous and the consequences dire for them both. He couldn’t trust himself to keep his hands to himself, and neither could afford further dalliance.
So he would have to put an end to it.

Rifling through the various documents on his desk to find the one he wanted, he reached for a sheet of paper and the pen lying beside his blotter. Albert Fitzwaller would, he was sure, be able to help her to unlock the mystery of Sir Harold’s machine. Even better, that gentleman, although an energetic septuagenarian, preferred the company of other men to that of women.

He had just started his note to Prudence when Oliver flew into the room, a package clutched in his talons, and tried for a landing on the short, and only clear, end of the desk.

“No, Oliver, circle arou—”

Of course the owl ignored him and overshot, the package flying from his grip, talons scraping across the wood before he smashed into the wall.

“Sorry!” Oliver righted himself, sending Will a sheepish look. “I keep thinking, ‘This time I will get it right.’”

“I’ve told you, it’s no fault of yours.” Will bent to retrieve the package as Oliver hopped toward the fireplace. “I just can’t seem to adjust your wings exactly right for the quick stop.”

“Never you mind.” Oliver rotated his head, clicking his beak in amusement. “Gives Max something to laugh at, anyhow. He does love to see me crash—”

With a horrendous clang the fire iron flew from its spot on the hearth and whacked the owl in the side, bowling him over again.

“Oh, bollocks.” Oliver tried to get up, but the angle of the poker wouldn’t let him. “I’m bloody magnetized again. I hate when this happens. Now, if there’s anything for you to sort out, it’s this.”

Will didn’t bother to explain again that if Oliver could land properly and not go bashing into things, he wouldn’t end up magnetized. Instead he called for Clifford to come get the owl and take him back to the lab to have his molecules properly realigned.

“May I deactivate him first, sir?” Clifford asked, lifting Oliver, fire iron and all, and preparing to carry him away.

“You bloody well better,” Oliver retorted, rustling his feathers in an attempt to look fierce and failing spectacularly. “Or as soon as I’m free, you’ll be on the receiving end of my beak. I hate having it done when I’m awake.”

It was only after they had left that Will got a chance to look at the package and when he did his heart leapt. He recognized the feminine, looping handwriting from the two letters Prudence had sent him, which he had finally found and read the day before. Tearing open the paper, he found his jacket, neatly folded, along with a note.

Dear Mr. Foreman,
After you left Hastings Halt yesterday I realized you had unfortunately left your coat behind and thought I would send it on to you.
I also wanted to thank you again for your offer to aid me in investigating Uncle Harry’s invention. I will not bore you with details, but determining its use and potential marketability is of overriding importance to me at this time.
Yet I also realize that, because of my unconscionable and frightfully untoward behavior, you may not wish to have anything more to do with me. I sincerely apologize if I have caused you any discomfort, and if you no longer desire to render assistance I would understand completely. I only ask that you suggest another gentleman of your acquaintance who may be able and willing to unlock the mystery of my uncle’s device.
I remain, yours sincerely,
Prudence Hastings

Will read the note through once, then twice again, getting a little more—well—aggrieved each time. The formality of her words, the assumption her actions were distasteful to him, annoyed him beyond measure.

Untoward behavior…

If there was any untoward behavior, it was his.

Silken Sheets & Seduction + HUGE giveaway

2011-09-12T10:31:00.000-07:00

I have joined a team blog which discusses all things spicy. I'm totally proud and honored to be a part of this great team!

As part of our launch we're having a HUGE giveaway and I mean huge. There's many chances to win something, but the grandprize is a Kindle. :)The giveaway ends October 1st where the winner will be announced.

Check out Silken Sheets & Seduction here. I'm blogging the 2nd and the 4th Saturday of each month.

Also check out this great video introducing us all.

Six Sentence Sunday

2011-09-11T00:00:00.000-07:00

This SSS is the second book in my enchantress series, Sorceress from the Sea. This book is about Alfwyn and sorceress he rescues from the sea, only a dark demonic warlord is tracking her and Alfwyn has to protect her and his land from the demon's plague.

The setup is Alfwyn is walking along the cliffs at the edge of the sea and he spots something adrift on the water:

It was a funeral barge, a custom among the people that dwelled at the edge of the sea. Poor soul. Alfwyn wondered briefly about the occupant, watching as the waves tossed the barge closer to the rocks. He couldn’t tear his eyes away as it jostled around like a feather in the wind until it crashed against a promontory of rocks,
splintering into numerous pieces. Then there was a bloodcurdling scream.

Dead men don’t scream.

Buried alive

2011-09-07T07:54:00.000-07:00

Working steadfastly on the layering of my bear shifter. It's taking a long time, these characters have a lot to say and they are forever all over each other. LOL!

I thought I would stick my head out of my cave briefly to wave. Hopefully I'll see the light soon! :) I have a lot to do before I head down to Romanticon on September 29th in Akron Ohio. I am SO looking forward to meeting more of the fantastic Ellora's Cave staff and writers.

I'm also trying to get a lot done for the workshop I'm attending this Saturday in Toronto. I'm attending Deb Dixon's GMC workshop. I'm really looking forward to it because I joined the TRW just after she had done one and I missed out.

Better get back to it. Have a great day. :)

Six Sentence Sunday

2011-09-04T00:00:00.000-07:00

I've been buried in my writing cave finishing up something. I thought I'd share a bit of what I've written before I send it off to my editor.

The Setup:

Hero is a Mountie and he just saved the heroine. They both realize the are the same. He has been running from his people for a long time and she's just on the run. :)

He had left Ontario to escape the clan he didn’t want to be near another one. For ten years he had managed to bury that part of his life and yet here he was, locked in a cabin with a female. In heat. This was going to test his will power, more than he cared to try.
“Constable Thomas, what should I do?”

“Once I get this fire started you can get undressed and show me your mate mark so I know who you belong to.”

Happy SSS! :)

Six Sentence Sunday

2011-08-28T00:00:00.000-07:00

I thought for Six Sentence Sunday I would choose the first book I ever wrote, but not the first I published. I started writing Enemy Enchantress after I had my first baby in 2003 and I didn't finish it until after my second baby in 2006. It was published by Eternal Press in 2010.

The setup is Aislinn and Edwin were enemies, until a peace treaty. They were arranged to be married to forge an alliance between their two countries.

They had never met before, but they had. A brief encounter in the woods had left them both desiring each other and dreading their impending arranged marriage.

This is the moment when they discover that they have married the 'stranger' from the woods.

Slowly, she raised her face and his blood rushed, his heart stopped as all his dreams suddenly came true. The enchantress from the woods was his wife. His search was over before it had even started. She was his by marriage, his forever. She gasped as their eyes met, hers widening in shock.

“You,” she whispered. “It cannot be.”

“It can and it is, my lady. You are my wife.”

Hope you enjoyed my Six!

Halfway

2011-08-10T12:12:00.001-07:00

I hit the halfway point in my WIP last night. It felt extremely awesome, though my wrists were burning by the time I was done.

I wrote 3k in total last night. Not bad.

So to celebrate, I give you Christopher Walken reading Lady Ga Ga's Poker Face:

Aug 40k Update

2011-08-08T07:08:00.000-07:00

So Friday and Saturday was a bit of a bust. I needed a break from the computer.

Sunday was release day, so again a bit of a bust, but I did manage to get 1k written.

I was kind of bummed out that I didn't get more written on the weekend, until I counted what I've written since August 1.

I've written 10k. 0_0 Wow. So no reason to complain. In 5 days I managed 10k (since day six and seven I wrote nothing). If I keep this up I'll make 40k no problem.

Maybe for Six Sentence Sunday next week I'll do Six sentences from my current WIP. :)

Six Sentence Sunday

2011-08-07T00:00:00.000-07:00

Today is my release day for LAIRD'S RETURN. It seems surreal that it's finally here.

I can't believe it.

So I thought I would share six sentences from it. The set-up is Liam has been away for ten years. Everyone thought he was dead, especially the woman he loved.

“Liam?” She turned and looked at Robbie, her face wreathed in shock. When she looked at Liam again her eyes were filled with tears. “Liam?” she whispered again before suppressing a sob.
Liam stepped closer.

“No,” she shouted holding up her hands to hold him off, the cut roses falling to the floor around the hem of her dress.

Hope you enjoyed my SSS entry today.

August 40k

2011-08-04T07:38:00.000-07:00

So I'm participating in writing 40k for August. It's going quite well. I've written, roughly, about 2k a day since August 1st. I went from 11k to 18k in my manuscript.

This is good.

I also discovered I have to write at night, when the kids are in bed. There's no way to write in the old lazy boy anymore. I set up a table and office chair in my bedroom, in the corner. The only room currently not cluttered with kids stuff, and I write.

Butt in chair, fingers on keys and it's working. I have many projects to tweak and revise. So many balls in the air. I've honestly felt like sitting down and crying, but that will get me no where fast.

Butt in chair, fingers on keys and NO distractions. I do listen to music, but I can't write in dead silence. I've tried. It doesn't work.

Butt in chair and fingers on keys.

I'll keep y'all updated on my progress. :)

Six Sentence Sunday

2011-07-31T06:32:00.000-07:00

For my first Six Sentence Sunday I thought I'd take six sentences from my very first book, Masque of Desire from Ellora's Cave.

The set-up is Alek is leading Miranda upstairs for some "fun" and she sees another couple having "fun" and I think you know what I mean.

“Are you jealous of them?” her companion asked, shattering her reverie.
“What?” she asked hoarsely.
“I asked you, ma chere, if you were jealous.”
“No—I,” she faltered. She couldn’t think of a plausible excuse. He pushed her up against a paneled wall with his arms on either side of her face.

Thanks for letting me participate in Six Sentence Sunday this week. I think I shall be back next week. :)

While the cat's away...

2011-07-24T17:36:00.000-07:00

Camping. Yep. I'm going camping with the family. It's been a long time since I've been camping. The last time I went hubby and I were just dating, almost engaged.

I am super excited because when I was a kid and into my teens my family went camping and I am over the moon excited to take my kids. We're going to a provincial park about 2 hours north of us.

So while I'm away, on July 27 I'll be over at Sara's FABULOUS Urban Fantasy blog and I'm giving away two copies of Incarnate. :)

I'm going to take lots of pics of camping and will share with you when I get back.

Over at Shiloh Walker's blog

2011-07-20T08:30:00.000-07:00

My Twitter buddy the AWESOME, Shiloh Walker invited me to do a short post on Writer Wednesday. You can check it out here.

The cool thing, besides the gorillas involved, is that when I was first starting out writing and was interested in writing for Ellora's Cave, the first book I bought was Once Upon a Midnight Blue by Shiloh Walker.

And now I'm on her blog sharing some tips. Kind of surreal and just absolutely amazing.

Other Dates & Links as promised.

This Friday I'm doing a post on my playlist for Incarnate at Julia Smith's blog here.

On July 28th I'm over at the amazing Deb Cooke's blog here Deb is the writer of the awesome Dragonfire books. I love them.

On July 30 I'm over at Long and Short Reviews blog. The first time I'm not at Whipped Cream because I'm talking about Incarnate.

And that's what I'm up to in a nutshell! :)

Playing Catchup.

2011-07-18T18:54:00.000-07:00

I know. It's been a while since I blogged.

My bad. I've been crazy busy in good ways and in tragic ways.

Lost a very dear friend, which put a damper on my long weekend. It's been tough, he was married to my best friend and was the godfather to my youngest. Dying at 38 is tragic and senseless.

Also had a release in there. My alter ego, A.C. Ruttan's debut INCARNATE released from Samhain Publishing.

I promise to be better at blogging! I do. Good news though, the Canada Post strike is over so if you're looking for Romance Trading Cards then I can send them out. Shoot me an email at contactamy.ruttan (at) gmail (dot) com and I'll send them out to you.

I'm working on releasing new RTCs in the very near future, so stay tuned! :)

I'm going to be doing some blog touring. This Wednesday I'm at Shiloh Walker's blog talking a bit about writing. This Friday I'm at Julia Smith's blog talking about music which inspired Incarnate. On the 28th I'm at Deb Cooke's blog and on July 30th I'm at Long and Short Reviews and that blog involves a fun contest. I'll post the links for all those blogs tomorrow as I'm kind of not on my regular computer.

I've had some fantastic feedback about Incarnate, which I am relieved as this book was is so different than what I usually write. Currently in my cave I am working on Incarnate's sequel, cleaning up something for a request and writing on my next EC submission under Amy Ruttan. Lots going on.

I also took a bit of time off tonight to see Harry Potter & The Deathly Hallows Part 2. If you're a fan of Harry Potter RUN to this movie. It was fantastic! I cried and cheered. Just totally awesome.

Hope you're all keeping cool in this heat and I promise you'll see more of me this summer. I hope to have a couple contests too! :)

MayNoWriMo First Day Status report, 3rd day in.

2011-05-04T10:35:00.000-07:00

Yes, I started MayNoWriMo a bit late. I started on the 3rd instead of the first, but I swear to you I have a good reason, wisdom teeth. I had three pulled under general anesthetic on April 28th. They were impacted and my mouth is still full of stitches. So May 1st and 2nd I was still suffering from pain and my painkillers made me want to sleep most of the day and night away.

May 3rd was the first day I felt somewhat like my old self, and I managed to squeak out 2140 words, roughly. Sacrament (Incarnate's sequel) book two in my Portal Keeper series is now sitting at a lovely 7500 words.

I'll tell you, I've been struggling with this sequel. Trying to find a way to build up the world and recovering from the massive edits on Incarnate which darn near killed me. The edits were worth it, but I needed a couple months away from Cia and her world.

Then end of April, it hit me. I knew basically how I wanted Sacrament to go. I had the ending written, but I didn't know how to get from Point A to B. On a sunny day, on a lovely road trip to Goderich Sacrament unfolded and I made my DH stop at the local Dollarama where I purchased a pad of paper and a pen. While we had a picnic on the shores of Lake Huron, before heading to my inlaws I scribbled out the synopsis.

If I keep at the rate of going 2500 words a day I should have 50k done in a month, which is the minimum for the first draft.

My favorite line from last night's writing session: My penchant was for wild demon princes apparently.

Here's hoping for another 2500 words tonight.

Are you participating in MayNoWriMo?

New Cover

2011-05-03T10:32:00.000-07:00

I have been pretty blessed with fantastic cover artists and covers.

This one is going on my list of favorites. It's for my late summer release LAIRD'S RETURN from Eternal Press.

It's a Scottish historical romance, and I think the caption says it all "Try as he might he can't leave his past behind..."

I'm participating in MayNoWriMo and I plan to write at least 50k this month. May 1 and 2nd were a bust for me because I had wisdom teeth pulled on April 28th and was still recovering. My mouth is still full of stitches, but for the most part I'm no longer as drowsy.

Onwards and upwards.

INCARNATE

2011-04-26T07:31:00.000-07:00

I'm able to show you the cover for INCARNATE which is coming out from Samhain Publishing July 5, 2011 under my alter ego's name A.C. Ruttan.

Isn't it gorgeous. Kanaxa did it and I couldn't be more thrilled.

Below is the blurb:

For an innocent man, she’ll go to her grave. Again.

The Portal Keepers, Book 1

Cia is serving her sentence in the Canadian Arctic, guarding one of the many portals that seal off Earth from Heaven and Hell. She doesn’t mind the cold. What she does mind? Someone’s bumping off other Incarnates, the dual-souled beings who hold the Apocalypse at bay. And she’s next on the list.

Worse, she learns the prime suspect is Arthur, her ex. Arthur is many things, but despite their history, he’s no murderer. Cia has only thirty days to find him and prove it before the Wrath is unleashed to mete out justice.

It’s no relief when he shows up in her truck’s headlights on the side of the ice road. He stirs turmoil between her volatile old soul and the younger one that keeps it in line. Worse, he shows all the signs of turning into a demon.

The closer they get to Yellowknife, the more rogue demons pour out of Hell, dragging with them a past she thought would never haunt her again. Another murder, and the elders prepare to summon the Wrath ahead of schedule. A move that will, literally, let all Hell break loose. Unless Cia makes a soul-tearing choice.

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

Product Warnings
Ice, frigid temperatures, lots of Poutine consuming and a mention of blubber. Many demons were harmed in the writing of this book, but the polar bear really is okay.

I'm working hard on book two tentatively titled Sacrament.

Romance Trading Cards, they're coming!

2011-04-22T10:36:00.000-07:00

I saw something about Romance Trading Cards on one of the loops I lurk at, and I was curious. So I sought out more information and found out all I could about Romance Trading Cards. What fun!

I was looking for something fun to give away at Ellora's Cave Romanticon in the fall, and this is definitely a fun thing. So I'm making up Romance Trading Cards and will be handing them out in Akron.

Here's a copy of the first one I've made:

Release Day

2011-04-20T15:38:00.000-07:00

Almost escaped me. I've been crazy busy. The kids are involved in activities this summer and the start ups are starting. Sumo is in Karate, Boo starts soccer and is in Guiding ... which I am a leader. Oy.

I can't believe the month is almost over, and with it brings the standalone sequel to Gladiator's Revenge, GLADIATOR'S ATONEMENT.

Here's the blurb:

When Eratos gains his freedom from his violent master he has only one thing on his mind—atonement. He chases his former master Thelonius back to Antioch, and a ghost from his past emerges from the shadows, none other than his master’s wife—a woman who hates the man as much as Eratos does.

Helena detests her husband, but thankfully he is never home and doesn’t desire her. Now he has returned home to lick his wounds and Helena wonders what has him so nervous. When she spies a shadow lurking she is thrilled Eratos has returned and realizes why her husband is fearful.

Helena decides to get her own revenge on the man who destroyed her life, and to finally taste ecstasy in the arms of Eratos, the man who stirred her dormant passions long ago. Eratos has thought only of Helena from the moment he first saw her, and having her under his former master’s nose sounds like sweet revenge indeed.

But Thelonius stands in their way, a man who they both want dead.

Happy April!

2011-04-01T13:03:00.000-07:00

No, I won't be posting anything April Foolish today. I'm not fond of the day, probably because I'm usually the dupee rather than the duper ... errr whatever. LOL! I got the cover for INCARNATE my Samhain Publishing release this summer, but alas I can't share it's goodness with you until it's approved... let's just say I cried. Literally bawled like a baby. It's PERFECT. Incarnate is being release under my alter ego A.C. Ruttan. I also had a wonderful review for MALE ORDER at Sizzling Hot Books the other day. Thank you ladies! They are delightful over there, we had a bit of discussion about the "inspiration" for Male Order. I also participated in a Radio Interview with Desmond Haas, but it went live when I was out of town for my husband's grandmother's funeral. So you can check it out here. I'm still playing catchup from said funeral. I'm working on my newsletter as we speak! I'm so glad Spring is here and that April is here, besides April bringing dental surgery. Boo! How are you?

Make Tomorrow Yours

2011-03-20T19:05:00.001-07:00

Today our family lost a special lady. Today was also her birthday, so she went out in a special way. Not many people die on the day they were born. She was 95 and she had spunk and gumption right up to the end before she drifted off, peacefully back to heaven.

I was going through some pictures of my kids with their great-grandma and my hubby with her, as it was his grandmother (mine have long since departed this world), and I found a book of poems she wrote. It was never published, she just printed them out for her family. A couple were published in the local paper up in Clinton/Londesboro called the Focus. I thought I would share one with you, one that was unpublished and I thought was fitting. Like she was speaking to me when I randomly opened the page to it.

Make Tomorrow Yours
By Susan Elizabeth "Beth" Knox, circa 2003

This is the first day of the rest of your life,
It's your day to make it whatever you wish.
Have breakfast, forget about yesterday's pie.
Tomorrow is not yet in your dish.
See the sun in its glory in the sky,
Or rain, maybe thunder, humidity or wind.

Birds sing their song;
At the feeder they fight.
The phone rings, a voice says, "What's on your mind?"

Let's go for a drive;
We'll be back before night.

The golden grain just ready to combine.
Corn stands tall, a gorgeous lush green.
Is there anything more beautiful than nature?

As you drive through the country magic is seen.
With varieties of flowers out there you are smitten,
Lawns with a carpet of green a magnificent sigh.

Children romping with puppies or kittens.
Mom and Dad relaxing at the edge of night.

If you choose to be thankful that you are alive,
Your day will be rewarded with splendor.

When the sun goes to rest and quietness arrives,
Then you drift into slumber behind a closed door.

You make tomorrow what you want it to be--
Because it's out there for you and me.

Rest in peace Great-Grandma. Though I only knew you for ten years, it was a pleasure and an honor.

New Release

2011-03-16T11:47:00.001-07:00

WOOT! The day just escaped me, but today my Quickie MALE ORDER was released from Ellora's Cave.

I've been pretty quiet, I had a bit of health scare, but I'm OK as I can be. I've been diagnosed with Crohn's. I had been so ill and in pain for a month. They searched for everything from pregnancy (ACK!!!) to cancer(double ACK).

I am feeling much better since I started eating low residue, which means basically keeping away from fiber, soda, fats. I have to seed and peel all of my fruits and veggies. I haven't had broccoli in forever. Regardless, it was totally worth it and I have been losing baby weight ... not the rapid weight from starving. Crohn's doesn't allow your body to absorb anything. Your bowels are damaged and you become malnourished. Some with Crohn's end up with countless surgery as strictures form. Luckily I wasn't that bad and I quickly changed, because I want to avoid surgery and pain.

And the plus side, my kids are really enjoying the new meals. They absolutely gobbled up Chicken & Eggplant Parmesan.

Anyways, that's where I'm at. I hope you all enjoy Male Order.

March ... really?

2011-03-04T08:08:00.000-08:00

I can't believe it's March ... and the fact we're already 4 days in. YIKES.

I have been crazy busy. I have a new joint blog I share with Anya Richards called Uninhibited History

I also sold a Scottish historical romance to Eternal Press. WOOT!

I have five releases out this year. The first of the five MALE ORDER is coming out on March 16th, 2011 from Ellora's Cave.

And that's about it in a nutshell ... for now. How are you doing?

New Sale

2011-02-19T16:48:00.000-08:00

I am absolutely thrilled I sold a novella to Ellora's Cave under their Blush line. Blush is sensual romance, it was once known as Cerridwen Press. This is my second Blush book. My first was my historical romance Fox's Bride, and this is a historical romance as well, only this one takes place 1919 at the world famous Brookland's race track in England.

Here is the unofficial blurb for BENTLEY GAL:

Superstar of the Brooklands racing circuit, David Garr, makes all the ladies swoon. Too bad he's actually a lady too.

George left the States to escape prohibition and his broken heart. He vowed never to trust a woman again, until he meets his sponsor’s fiancée who captivates him. Though he knows he shouldn’t pursue her, he can’t help himself.

Davina Wentworth should be happy, she has it all—money, a gorgeous fiancé, but ever since her brother’s death the good life is not enough. Dressing as a man and racing under the name David Garr gives her the thrill she needs; until George Dyson becomes her number one rival, both on track and off.

She only ever felt alive behind the wheel of her Bentley, until he crashed through the barriers of her heart.

As soon as I have more info I'll let you know!

Happy Valentines Day

2011-02-14T11:11:00.000-08:00

Have a great one!

New Print Release

2011-02-10T08:42:00.000-08:00

I'm so thrilled that my Quickie HARD CANDY has been released in an anthology with three other Ellora's Cave authors. WOOT!

The Antho is titled SWEET and you can get a copy here.

Hard Candy by Amy RuttanA golden ticket to a hedonistic club, that’s the marketing idea Lenore Byrne offers her newest client Pallator Sinclair as a way to promote his Innocent Pleasures Candy Company. Candy that is for adults only. Landing this account will make her career and it doesn’t hurt that her client is damn sexy.

Pallator has been up and down Madison Avenue, but no one gets his vision for his company. That is, until he meets Lenore. He offers her the chance of a lifetime, a tour of the hedonistic club. It’s an offer she can’t refuse, but can she turn down his other offer? To completely let herself go with the sinful man she hardly knows.

Candy-Coated Passion by Kat Alexis
Natalie Semenova has everything she wants. Except her younger sister’s college tuition is past due and Nat can’t even begin to remember the last time she had sex. When two large orders are placed in her candy shop, everything starts to look up. Until a horrible mix-up involving chocolate penises brings Nat’s ex-lover to her door.

Dane Falken knows he has to make up for the biggest mistake of his life to win Natalie back, but all she’s interested in is the orgasms he gives her. When two people determined to get what they want end up in bed together, what happens is sweeter than candy.

Lollipop Kings by Brigit Zahara
One blackmailed beauty and two delicious brothers in the candy biz equals one very sticky situation for the three of them.

Reilly’s Rockets executive assistant Sherry Martin is coerced into spying on the candy corporation’s number one professional rival by a man from her former life and now Reilly’s new VP of Marketing. She comes face to face with Ethan and Sterling Lancaster, the notorious and gorgeous Lollipop Kings. That’s when Sherry discovers firsthand that there’s more than one way to lick the competition.

Body Candy by Taylor Tryst
Sophia Maddox is not only living her dream, but her fantasies, creating edible Body Candy to aid in sexual fulfillment. Until a sexy detective knocks on her door and threatens to expose her secrets. Little does he know, Sophie will do anything to protect those secrets, even using him as a sexual guinea pig for her newest candy creation.

Though not what he seems, Brody Burkett must investigate a murder, save his silent partner, and prevent his death. But add Sophie to the mix and his sweet tooth—and desire for her—can’t be satiated, even with both of their lives in danger.

Happy February

2011-02-07T08:06:00.000-08:00

Yes I know, it's been February for a few days, but I've been in the writing editing cave finishing up lots of things.

I finally finished the first draft of my third gladiator book. I've also been taking care of sick kids. All three of them have been down and out for the past two weeks, started right after my middle kid had his big 5th b-day party.

Now, it has hit me. I've been trying to shake this nasty flu since Friday, but I still wasn't going to let this stop me from FINALLY finishing the first draft of Gladiator's Seduction. GS is my first attempt at writing a menage too, so hopefully my editor will like it. Although, not in its current state. LOL! It'll take some major tweaking to get it up to snuff. I'm hoping to start that soon.

Today, despite the flu, I'm trying to get together crafts for Brownies and World Thinking Day which comes up on February 22nd. I haven't thought about World Thinking Day since I was a Pathfinder. I've been out of the organization for a decade, so it's kind of nice getting reacquainted with Lord and Lady Baden-Powell's little love story and think about other cultures.

The kidlet and I are going to make fried plantains for the Brownie troop next week.

Here's a simple recipe for some plantains, which according to my lovely Jamaican CP (Anya Richards) to make sure their ripe (like almost black), slice thin, put them on a paper towel to get off excess grease and do them in small batches to watch them because they fry fast.

You Need:

4 Plantains
1/4 Cup Cooking Oil
1/4 Cup of Sugar

Instructions:

Peel Plantains. Cut into 1/2" thick pieces. Sprinkle with sugar. Heat oil over medium flame. Place plantain pieces in a single layer in hot oil. Cook on each side until golden brown and edges are caramelized.

Yield:

48 Bite-Sized Pieces

Any other simple International recipes you want to share with a Snowy Owl for a Brownie troop?

Funny for a Friday

2011-01-27T17:28:00.000-08:00

A friend sent this to me and I couldn't stop laughing!

The King's Speech

2011-01-25T16:02:00.000-08:00

I saw it over the weekend as a celebration for finishing through the edits ... so far one of my CPs is reading it to see if further tweaks are needed.

ANYWAYS. The King's Speech ... I'll be doing a more in depth review on a new team blog I'm a part of soon, but OMG see this movie. Even if you're not a Royalist like I am, see this movie for the brilliant performances of Colin Firth and Geoffrey Rush.

I had to see this movie George VI and Elizabeth Bowes-Lyon were my favorite royals. The Queen Mother was just a wonderful charitable person. Too much emphasis is placed on the torrid love of Wallis and David (the king who gave up the Crown), but if you want true love George VI and Elizabeth was a much more romantic love story.

And didn't they make the most beautiful couple?

Well, back to the grindstone. I am SO ready for Spring. Tired of the bitter cold we've been having here lately.

Upcoming Chat with PRIZES

2011-01-18T06:19:00.000-08:00

Hey all! Peeking out of my cave. The edits are almost complete, just going through a final tweak and then I can send them back to my editor. *whew*

I have some upcoming chats to keep in mind. I'm participating in the Coffee Time Romance Bringing in the New Year Chat here.

My day is January 20th, which is Thursday, so be sure to drop by for some chatting and prizes. :)

The second upcoming chat is not really a chat and is far away, but I am super excited about. I'll be attending Ellora's Cave Romanticon this year in Akron Ohio! WOOT! I'm putting together a workshop proposal and will be looking forward to hanging with fellow authors and readers during this fun filled weekend!

Romanticon runs from September 29 through October 2nd. It's a really great conference if you're on a tight budget. PLUS all the editors from EC are going to the conference and will be hearing pitches from aspiring authors.

Back to the grindstone. I hope to see you online at the Coffee Time Romance chat on January 20th, and for those who can make it I hope to see you in Akron in the Fall of 2011.

In the cave.

2011-01-12T06:25:00.000-08:00

My computer has come back from the dead and I'm in serious edit mode right now. I probably won't be around very much the next few days as I tackle these edits.

So for your enjoyment I present you with Conjunction Junction:

Year in retrospect

2010-12-31T01:00:00.000-08:00

It's been a wild year as I tried to clamour out of a funk and get back after 2009 knocked me off my feet with a high risk pregnancy and absolutely no writing.

2010 my Muse came back--well, really she returned in June of 2009 after I delivered, but I needed that time to get WIPs finished and books written to get ready for 2010.

I had four releases in 2010:

ENEMY ENCHANTRESS a re-release of Enchantress The Fey was released in July of 2010 from Eternal Press.

SORCERESS FROM THE SEA which is a re-release of Enchantress The Sorceress released in September 2010 from Eternal Press.

HEALER OF THE HEART released from Eternal Press in December 2010.

GLADIATOR'S REVENGE from Ellora's Cave released in December 2010, which was a long awaited redubt to EC. My last release with EC was February 2009 with Hard Candy.

I also made a couple sales which will be coming out in 2011:

MALE ORDER a Quickie from Ellora's Cave
GLADIATOR'S ATONEMENT coming from Ellora's Cave

AND my debut under my paranormal/urban fantasy name A.C. Ruttan INCARNATE is coming from Samhain Publishing.

I also had a freebie HOLLOW by A.C. Ruttan which is available here

My site and blog were redesigned and I lurve them. That is my year in a nutshell. It's been a crazy one, but a great one. Now, if I can only match the releases for next year to this past one. I have a good head start with 3. LOL!

Happy New Years my friends.

Ebil Ebil plots and the final season of The Tudors sigh

2010-12-30T07:44:00.000-08:00

My DH bought me the final season of The Tudors for Christmas. I wasn't expecting it because it was out of the price range we set for each other. I don't get Showtime or any of those fancy channels so I never got to see it air live (never saw the entire series live really) so I've always had to buy the DVDs. Well, I was over the moon and quivering with excitement when I opened it. When I started to watch, I couldn't stop. Just like when I start eating Ferrero Rochers. LOL!

GREAT finale. Of course even though I knew what was going to happen I was still yelling at the screen for people doing stupid things like Catherine Howard getting it on with Thomas Culpepper (who was a dickwad), and Lady Rochford aiding them. I was screaming "WHAT ARE YOU DOING?!!!" Plus that stupid Francis Dereham forcing his way into the Queen's service and then flaunting how he 'knew' Queen Catherine. Idiot, and where did that get you? Hung drawn and quartered ... that's right. Suckahs.

John Rhys Meyers and Henry Cavil were the dishiest versions of Henry VIII and the Duke of Suffolk. Yum. Even when they tried to make them all old and decrepit. It didn't work.

Wasn't sure about the fictional french mistress of Charles Brandon after their attack on Bolougne, but hey its an inaccuracy I can overlook.

Also I like Anne of Cleves coming into her own, and entertaining the notion Henry and her did have a tryst when he was becoming unhappy with Catherine Howard. Joss Stone as the Flanders Mare was wonderful.

I also like Lady Hertford (that saucy wench) tell Bishop Gardiner where to stick it when he threatened to arrest her for being a heretic, just because she helped poor Lady Askew who was being burned for being a martyr (she had the executioner place gunpowder around her neck).

I'm sad to see it go. I would've liked them to continue with Edward's short reign, Jane Grey's even shorter one, Mary (who was already being swayed to her bloody status of declaring to BURN every heretic she could) and then Elizabeth take the crown, but c'est la vie. I'm going to miss this series whole heartedly. Might have to watch from beginning to end now. Hehehe. Of course that's if I can grab the TV away from my chillins who insist on watching Despicable Me and Toy Story 3 every day on their holiday.

Also an ebil ebil plot monkey came to me. It's not a romance, and I don't know what to make of it yet but it's certainly interesting.

Some new tricks learned...

2010-12-26T16:36:00.000-08:00

Well, now that the house is returning somewhat normal, as in the boxes and wrapping paper are out of the living room, the missing Zhu Zhu Hamster is found (it took off for a whole day we couldn't find it) and there is minimal toy wreckage in my living room I'm actually having some down time.

It's nice.

I read the Hunger games trilogy over the holidays. If you haven't read them I seriously recommend them. Catching Fire had to be my favorite, although I wasn't expecting the ending to Mockingjay.

I also taught myself how to knit. Well, an aunt of mine taught me years ago, but I forgot and didn't have the patience. I've knitted about 10 inches of the total 56 inches I need for my first ever scarf. I'm quite proud. I haven't dropped a stitch or anything! It's a guide book I picked up today on how to teach yourself to knit, so I am. :)

DH bought me the final season of The Tudors YAY and the Iron Duke by Meljean Brooks, but I'll need a couple days downtime from the Hunger Games triology to allow me to crack open something new.

I made the Pioneer Woman's Rum Cake, that was a HUGE hit *hiccup*.

Other than that Christmas was great. The kids really make it magical. How was your holiday?

Happy Holidays

2010-12-24T06:43:00.000-08:00

I hope you have a great Holiday Season whatever you celebrate!

Three, Two, One ... THUNDERBIRDS ARE A GO!

2010-12-22T11:07:00.000-08:00

I can't believe Christmas is in three days! WHAT? This has to be the fastest December ever, probably due to the storms which shut down the schools for almost a week.

My kids are bouncing off the walls, to say the least. I'm just enjoying watching my repetoire of required Christmas specials. By chance I discovered a new Vicar of Dibley. Well, not new it came out in 2004/2005, but we don't get them straightaway here. I did purchase a copy of the Vicar's 10th Anniversay Specials yesterday and it completes my Vicar collection since I already had a Wholly Holy Happy Ending with the delicious Richard Armitage.

Here's a clip from my favorite part:

ALIVE!

2010-12-15T06:56:00.000-08:00

No, I'm not dead under this mound of snow, and yes it is a mound. We got another 25 cms last night and it's still snowing. I shovel one spot and by the time I get back it looks like I didn't even shovel at all. It's like old adage of a grain of sand or pushing a boulder up a mountain for eternity. *sigh*

I've been quiet because I've been sick and just busy with holiday prep and writing. I'm working on my third gladiator book and another little short that's been fun to write.

I have some good news though! I sold the second gladiator book to Ellora's Cave. It was titled Blood Atonement, but it's getting retitled to something else. I'll let you know when I get a confirmation on the title.

Other than that I'm bracing for Christmas. I'm really looking forward to the Christmas holidays and hibernating for a couple weeks with lots of baked treats, hot chocolate and watching Christmas specials with my kidlets.

New Release & Snowmageddon

2010-12-07T08:28:00.000-08:00

I so thrilled that Healer of the Heart is now out from Eternal Press. It is the third book in the Enchantress Series, I'm still writing that fourth book. LOL!

You can find out more about it here.

As for Snowmageddon, where I live is getting absolutely blasted by snow since Sunday. The schools were closed again, and I live on the same street as my school, but there are six foot drifts and close to a meter recorded snowfall, and guess what it is still snowing.

We just got another warning and the mayor is thinking about declaring a state of emergency. I lived in Toronto during Mel Lastman's reign when Snowmageddon hit Toronto and he declared a state of emergency, so believe me I'm not mocking Joe Fontana at all.

Anyways, that is where I am at. How are you? :)

Fantastic Review & Other Assorted Things

2010-12-05T06:34:00.001-08:00

So I got my first reader review for Gladiator's Revenge and I couldn't be more thrilled. The reader absolutely adored it and I'm over the moon. I had been worried about Taranis's reception. SO YAY!

I'm still sick with a sinus infection, and the last time I had this it turned into walking pneumonia this summer. I'm having a hard time breathing and I'm praying it's not another relapse. Boo! I have WAY too much to do, like write the third book for my Ancient Rome series.

Tuesday is my release from Eternal Press, the third book in my Enchantress Series Healer of the Heart.

Also Christmas is coming, and though my decorations are up my baking is sorely falling behind. Hoping I can get over this infections hump so I can start to bake again. I have BIG baking plans this Christmas, like Pioneer Woman's Rum Cake, Nanimo Bars, Yule Logs and Oreo truffles. Mmmm.

We're also in a snowsquall warning and supposed to get 8 inches of snow. It's starting to feel a lot like Christmas here.

So how are you this fine Sunday?

New Release-Gladiator's Revenge

2010-12-02T16:46:00.000-08:00

It's been a long time since I had an Ellora's Cave Release, and I'm absolutely thrilled that Gladiator's Revenge is now available. I had so much fun researching Ancient Rome and writing this story.

I hope you enjoy Taranis' story as well.

You can read an excerpt here.

Back

2010-11-30T13:30:00.000-08:00

Hey everyone,

I'm back to Blogger with a new design thanks to Rae Monet Designs. *g*

I couldn't be happier with the design. What do you think of my new look?

Check out my website here.

NEW SITE

2007-10-02T17:02:00.000-07:00

CLICK HERE (This is for Lisa Andel btw). This is my new site.

FOLLOW ME TO THE NEW SITE

2007-09-20T14:57:00.001-07:00

Come to my new site. www.amyruttan.com

He's waiting for ya!

Gone Going Gone

2007-09-09T10:44:00.000-07:00

Hey everyone, my last official post on blogger. *sniff sniff*

I have moved to (drumroll please) www.amyruttan.com/blog

So it would be so awesome if you could up date your links to my new blog.

I also have announced the winner of my OH YUM contest. That lucky person is TEMPEST KNIGHT, you've won a free copy of MASQUE OF DESIRE which I will email to you at the end of the month when it releases. Congrats!!! I hope you like it.

Okay Syanara, come on over to my new blog. :)

A Contest

2007-09-08T17:56:00.000-07:00

Wanna win a copy of my first release TRICKS OR TREATS: MASQUE OF DESIRE?

Here's your chance! I'm working on a new story for EC it's an OH YUM, which is Older Woman and Young Man.

It's about neighbors ... he's loved her all his life, but she was married and he was 16. After a decade away from his home town, he's back and she's single!

The choices (thanks to my Six Degrees of Sexy Sisters) are in my side bar. Vote for your favorite, leave your name in the comments section and I'll draw a winner on September 8, 2007 who'll win a free copy of MASQUE OF DESIRE when it releases in October. :)

So that's why this post is dated weird. Scroll down for my newest posts. Goodluck!!!

I'm Moving

2007-09-07T19:37:00.000-07:00

It's Friday, it's launch day for my new website!!! Designed by the fabulous ML of Moonglade Designs.

I am very excited, makes me feel like a real author now to have a professional site.

I would love it if you updated your links for me!!!

My new web is www.amyruttan.com

Well, still the same domain name NEW LOOK and new blog where I will still be continuing my crazy antics etc.,

Come by my new site, I am having a launch party. Cool prizes etc., and on Saturday I will be announcing the winners, both to my OH YUM naming contest and new site contest.

Hope to see you there.

P.S. NEW WEBSITE IS LAUNCHING at 12:00 Noon EST.

No TT

2007-09-05T18:31:00.000-07:00

Sorry for bumming y'all out lately. No TT this week, EDJ is sucking the life out of me. Plus, on the brighter side I am preparing stuff for my new website which will be launching on Friday! It'll be loads of fun! I'll have some cool contests etc., and I love the new look of my website. Of course this means my blog will be moving. I'll leave a link to link to my new link!! (LOL!!!)

Anyways I better go! Have a great night. :)

Day from Glurch

2007-09-04T17:33:00.000-07:00

ERGGH, Amy no happy. Amy turn into great big green hulk. ERGGHH.

Yes I had the day from Glurch at the EDJ. Most people try to calm themselves saying 'I love my job, I love my job," ME NO LOVE IT.

Anyways I won't blabbering on to much about that. I got 6k written for Sven last night and 3k on Sunday so I'll be happy to report 9k to Sven tomorrow. Heck he might be up now so I can report that.

Spending tonight in the blogosphere calmed the green hulk in me. You guys are awesome. Always make me feel better. Especially Ms. Kinson who conferred upon me a blog star award. Thank you, I love you bunches!!

Now, I'm going to bed to read my terribly hilarious book that I am reading by Christopher Moore called A Dirty Job, about a man who discovers he's a Death Merchant in San Fransisco. It's hilarious, I don't know how to explain it other than not romance, unless you count getting a hand job by a sewer harpy in the back alley romance. I don't.

Monday yawn Huh?

2007-09-03T07:14:00.001-07:00

I think today is a great day for a lime helmet don't you think.

My body has betrayed me and is doing weird things. I won't go into the land of TMI but I feel like wearing a lime helmet.

LIME HELMET

So safe and sound
Smells like citrus is pleasant to me
Juice in my hair

There that's my haiku for Poetry Train.

Writing front, is going good. I went up to the land of no internet yesterday and TRIED to close myself up and write; but my inlaws again kept coming in "Watcha doing?" "Are you working on a story," (Not book, story), "Is it a sequel to your first?" "Is it your second?" So of course I answered all the questions; but it totally messed with my flow and I had to stop and put it away which honestly I think they prefer. They think what I write is sinful (even though they aren't all that religious).

So today I hope to get some writing done, sitting here with my weird acting body throwing me for a loop.

I'm at 50K in my 70 Days of Sweat. Only 15k to go!!! Woohoo. I have to write 10k for my OH YUM to get to my goal. Then I'm sure I can whack off 5k on another to make Sven happy; but if I make it to the end of 70 Days of Sweat I will have finished off two novels I had on the back burner, finished a new one from start to finish and submitted all three.

Lover Revealed

2007-08-31T09:06:00.001-07:00

As you guys know I am in the 50 books in a year challenge. Last night I finished number 47 so only 3 to go.

I was staggering there; so thank God for the J.R. Ward books about the Black Dagger Brotherhood. OMG, I couldn't put them down. Wylie kept nagging on about them, and then Christine got on board so I thought I better give it a try. What have I learned, Wylie is always right! ;)

I just finished book 4 and I am anxiously awaiting for Lover Unbound, Vishous story releasing on September 25, 2007. I actually am on my way to Pre-Order it from Chapters. I just can't wait to get my hand on the next Black Dagger Brotherhood story.

Thursday Thirteen #34

2007-08-29T16:03:00.001-07:00

Summer is waxing and waning and turning into my favorite season, Fall. I love the fall, but I am sad to see summer go, and it's my eldest's first day at school. Which to me is surreal. It feels like
only yesterday (well 4 years ago) I brought that 10.5lb sausage from the hospital. So I thought I would share 13 of my favorite summer picks. Summer was busy, and loads of fun.

Brianna sitting at my Uncle Ken's pool. I love this picture because when I was kid I literally spent my summer with my cousin Amanda in her pool. Amanda's my cousin, but I swear we're more like sisters. So travelling three hours to the place I grew up for a pool party mid July with my whole family was just an amazing day. Brianna's (Boo's) face sums it up.

Here's Sumo, I had to take this picture he's 32lb's now and only 19 months. YIKES. His Dr. just laughed and threw up her weight and height chart and said "He's just off the chart for his age, I just don't know where to put him."

He's in a size three, he's as big as his almost 4 yr. old sister and wears a size 9 shoe. He's my big boy and my little miracle. You wouldn't think this little guy almost died and was hooked up to machines for a month after his birth. I'm very blessed.

Me and my cousin Amanda. We went to Gwen Stefani together. This picture's weird and fuzzy but I love it. We had so much fun, I've even talked her into to going to RWA Nationals in San Fransisco with me next year. I'm afraid of planes ... need travel companions to feel safe. It's a whole weird shark thing.

Brianna having tea at Eldon House. She was the hardest monkey to potty train, due to some complications with her digestive tract. She's ok now, she has her bouts; but this was her treat for learning to use the potty. A real tea party and pearl tea.

These are hippos at the Toronto Zoo, relaxing in the water. They looked so peaceful and relaxed in their pool of water. Mother and baby Hippo. The Toronto Zoo was soooo much fun. If you're in T.O. go to the Zoo it's so worth it.

My DH, Boo and Sumo beside the statue of the Orangutan at the Zoo. The Indo Malaysia exhibit.

Ah of course Gwen Stefani. My second concert, ever and the best. I love Gwen I am a huge fan. I always said there are three people that I will try to see if they come to London Ontario. I didn't get to see Elton John because of having a baby (Sumo), Prince hasn't come to London, Ontario, and Gwen. So I crossed one off the list, and I'll see her again in a heart beak.

Ah Sumo Aidan ready for lunch. He's always ready for lunch. We had lunch at the Zoo in the very exotic and exciting Harvey's. He sat in a gorilla chair. He loved the monkey's, that's why I bought him a monkey he lovingly calls "Bouga". He doesn't go anywhere without Bouga.

Brianna and Aidan's first kite flying with Daddy. The wind at Grampa's farm was sooooo strong Daddy had to hold the string or Brianna would have been blown across the wheat field.

Brianna and Aidan's first movie in a theater type setting. We took the kids to the Drive In to Shrek 3. They had a playground there, and a big field where the kids were able to run wild while we waited for sunset. It was great fun. Brianna sat awake through the whole thing. Aidan conked out halfway through after trying for most of the movie to honk the horn.

My first trip on the Maid of the Mist. Here's a picture from the ship. Me and my cousin Amanda travelled from London to St. Jacob's (Kitchener) to Niagara Falls, which all three points are far from each other. We were high on endorphins from the Gwen concert, and maple syrup candy from the Maple Syrup Museum in St. Jacob's. It's the wildest thing I had done in a long, long, long, long time.

Gwen, my favorite shot. It was a screen montage to the song Wonderful Life. I just loved this shot from her Sweet Escape Album Cover. That concert rocked.

The Kite launch at Grampa's farm. It was a huge kite. My DH's childhood home the farm is a century farm, it's been in DH's family since the land was granted to the original settler, DH's great, great, great (well you get the point). It was early 1800's anyways. It's a beautiful place. Woodlot, creek, gorgeous trees, garden and breeding place to the Orange barn cat. So in the spring there are always little kitties creeping through the rhododendrons. TL would think it heaven I'm sure. ;)

Head on over ...

2007-08-29T11:04:00.000-07:00

Wylie did an amazing post on body language for writers today on Six Degrees of Sexy. Go check her out ... go on you know you want to.

Tomorrow, I am posting on Six Degrees of Sexy on Hunks through the Ages, some Fictional and real Heroes that can make a Heroine swoon.

One of those days ....

2007-08-28T15:56:00.000-07:00

You ever had one of those days, just nothing goes right. That's my penance for singing Manic Monday to you all.

I had one of those days today. Nothing went right, I tried to talk to the Superintendent to get my daughter into an out of district school because my parents watch her and they don't drive. I've been dicked around all summer by these folks, and finally they tell me basically in a nutshell "Just get a new sitter," UH YA cause that's soooooo simple when I can't afford it, and not to mention it would be hard for my chillins because my Mom has watched them since they were infants, and I pay her, it's her only source of income ... but you know whatever. (*snort*)

So, after a very frustrated email and other stuff they put her on a waiting list to get into the school. They'll tell me next week whether she's in or whether or not I have to rearrange some work schedules at the EDJ and buy my mom a bus pass. OY.

Then I'm trying to prep for trial, trying to ignore my urge to work on my OH YUM submission for Ellora's Cave, only to be bombarded with stupid questions all damn day long. I got like two things done in eight hours. GRRRRRR.

Lunch time, I got to Wendy's to get a meal. I ask for a Diet Coke, my instant stress reliever. I get back to work ... they've given me Lemonade. What kind of F*&Ked up day is this that someone has to confuse Diet Coke with Lemonade on the day I need it the most, I mean COME ON.

Thankfully, I'm at home. I'm working on my OH YUM, and I'll be running a contest soon on voting for several titles I have for it. Winner will get something good, like a gift certificate or something equally cool, maybe socks as I know Bonnie is always thrilled to get free socks. ;)

Anyways, I better go before my computer crashes or turns into Lemonade. And any of you that say when God gives you lemons you make lemonade ... I will get you and make you suffer!!!!! ;)

POST SCRIPT: I've tried to post the Frigging post three times and it shows up at the bottom. DAMN YOU AND YOUR LEMONS GOD, GIVE ME A BREAK!!!!

Poetry Monday! HOORAY I did it!

2007-08-27T17:10:00.000-07:00

Just another manic Monday, ohwooh, I wish it were Sunday ohwooh, cause that's my funday, owooh, I don't have to run day ....

Ok enough with my manic Bangle singing, do you guys remember them. I loved them when I was a kid. 1985 I was ... seven. I had Venus, Bananarama blah blah and it's Monday and I was singing this song.

I made back from my hiatus, of I don't know how many weeks of not participating in Poetry Mondays. Anyways, without further ado, my poem about Monday.

Monday

A hiatus of poetry Monday,
had me thinking Rhian was gonna slug me,
I tried really hard,
I feel like a tard,
that I just sang Manic Monday.

Ya, that limerick probably blows, but give me a break, I haven't participated in a while.

Other than that, my edits for Masque of Desire are done, the blurb is done, and if y'all are interested my author bio is on the author page at Ellora's Cave. Qewl.

I totally purged my basement Saturday, so DH and I can do some renos as in building me a small office.HOORAY. I ended up feeling two garbage bags full of garbage, a bag cram full of shredding to be recycled and ten, yes that's TEN bags of old clothes, toys and knick knack (crappy wedding gifts *cough cough*) to send to the Canadian Diabetic Society to pick up. They pick up my used items, take it to Value Village and Value Village pays them money for the Diabetes Society. How cool is that? Also I found some of my old poems from my teenage years. I have to dig them out of the folder again and I'll post one next week. They're pretty morbid, as in the fact there's a limerick about a snail eating a fish, and a poem about the REAL Bert and Ernie. I was a different kind of dark in highschool. ;)

Anyways, back to the EDJ. Happy Poetry Monday everyone.

Progress

2007-08-25T16:52:00.000-07:00

Ok Sven, I may not be working on a new book but I have finished editing my 2006 NaNo (thanks to Red for Beta reading it) and I have added words to that so from the first round of edits to the end round after Red read it (LOL), I have done about 5k since Wednesday, so Sven should be happy.

To celebrate, I bought 300 FINALLY. I have also finished reading Lover Awakened by JR Ward (awesomely sad but still awesome), Divine Assistant by Red Garnier and Bad Apple by Anna J. Evans. So I have got a lot done today. ;) I needed some down time. Now, I'm going to try to go back and work on my Demon Duke story or Hunters for Hire story. I've also been playing with a Jewel of the Nile story. OY, lots to do.

I am adding gratuitous picture of Gerard to brighten your day.

What are you up to?

Just Happy Dancing

2007-08-23T14:36:00.001-07:00

Just doing many happy dances over here. I just got an email from one of my critique partners Kelley V, and the book I Beta read for her that I adore just got sold to Parker Publishing. It's her first book in print. I am so excited and happy for her.

Check out her blog and wish her some love, you're all going to love her book when it comes out. It's an amazing story! Congrats again Kelley I am so happy for you.

TT Hiatus ... sigh again.

2007-08-22T17:55:00.001-07:00

I am soooo bummed I wanted to do TT this week, but EDJ so swamped and in trial prep. I just can't. Which blows because I was going to TT about Trevor and Mitchell and everything awesome about Shapeshifter for Susan. Poop.

Anyways, I'm dead tired, must go t bed because tomorrow at the EDJ is going to suck as much as this day did.

Oh enjoy the picture I got sent randomly in a forward. (It's not Sumo, he was never that small), but man do I feel like getting myself like that now.

As for Sven, I'm avoiding his calls. So on the writing front, it blows all around.

I hope to back next week, if I don't disappear in the Canadian Justice System under mounds of paperwork. Love you all.

Lunch with a Minx!!!

2007-08-21T16:17:00.000-07:00

First she wanted me to tell you all that she just spent 36 hours on a Greyhound Bus to get to this meeting ... but yes I met the fabulous Candy Minx today at lunch.

It was surreal to say the least. It was like I knew her, but we have never met face to face until today. After a moment of nervousness and awkwardness it all went good.

I had a great time today Candy. I love meeting fellow bloggers. I warned her that I don't talk too much in person. I am incredibly shy and quiet, I write and blog quite different than when I talk to someone in person. After I feel comfortable I begin to open up.

Oh ya, and I look like garbage because I had a real off day, felt terrible. Blech, but I felt alot better after meeting with Candy. She put a rainbow in my rainy day.

Monday Monday

2007-08-20T06:27:00.000-07:00

No poetry Monday today. I'm swamped at the EDJ. I did manage to pull off a post for Six Degrees of Sexy. It was my turn Under the Covers. Go check out my mini review of Sahara Kelly's PERFECT WHORE.

Ciao.

Day at the Zoo

2007-08-18T16:09:00.000-07:00

Well, just got back from the Zoo. I'm interrupting this regular scheduled writing (Because I have to report to Sven tomorrow and I don't want to be whipped), to talk about the Zoo. The Toronto Zoo in fact.

I hope to uploaded some pictures soon. The kids had a blast Boo loved it. She loved the Butterflies, the Alligators, the Elephants, the Giraffe the polar bears. So many animals, so little time.

My feet hurt, I'm exhausted, but the kid had a great time.

Brianna picked out a stuffed Siberian Tiger as her treat, Aidan (Sumo) got a monkey which he promptly named Bouga.

The only thing that Boo was afraid of was the toilets. She didn't like the strangers in there and it was off in a dark building. She held it all day, and then at the end of the day I managed to talk her into going.

We were done about 1:30 p.m., got home about 3:30 p.m., because of traffic. It was a beautiful day not to hot.

Now, I have to get into writing, get back to editing my 2006 NaNo. If you ever get the chance go to the Toronto Zoo, it's worth it.

Thoughtful Blogger Award

2007-08-17T15:00:00.000-07:00

Ms. Kinson honored me with the Thoughtful Blogger award. I'm very tickled to have it.

Hmmm now who to bestow this on, I think Julia, Susan at West of Mars and Leah. You all deserve it.

I can't get my stupid link thing to work, so that's why they're not linked. Drat, I'll try to link them later.

I'm Free, I'm Free

2007-08-16T16:42:00.000-07:00

As my buddy Christine always says "snoopy dancing", well that's what I'm doing right now folks. Except for my mortgage, I'm debt free. Just called the dreaded OSAP (For those of you not from Canada it's Student Loans) and had all zero balances. 6 years of paying has paid off.

I know it's not about writing, but screw it, come on Christine let's dance!!!!

Thursday Thirteen #33

2007-08-15T16:54:00.000-07:00

I saw this last week on Robin L. Rotham's blog. Now I did this Google search one time with Amy wants, so I decided to do Amy feels this time. Look what I got. Happy TT everyone.

1. AMY FEELS SYMPATHY FOR HER FOOTSLAVE: Au Contraire, no I don't, get down there and keep rubbing dammit. (This one actually was the first twenty hits!).

2. AMY FEELS GOOD RIGHT NOW, HOPEFULLY OWEN WILL STAY IN A WHILE LONGER: Ah ya, especially if it's Clive Owen he can stay in all he wants.

3. AMY FEELS THAT THINGS ARE BACK TO NORMAL AT HEARTLAND: Good I was worried there for awhile.

4.AMY FEELS THAT SHE IS CERTAINLY NOT THE ATYPICAL SOUTHERN BELL: Watcha ya mean Miz Scarlett. No seriously this is true, I'm from the North, the true North strong and free.

5. AMY FEELS SHE MUCH MORE THAN A NUMBER CRUNCHER: Um ya, me no do math.

6. AMY FEELS ALIENATED FROM DAVID: Well ya, especially if he caught Owen staying in me a while longer.

7. AMY FEELS HER ROLE IN THIS PARTNERSHIP IS TO KEEP US ALWAYS AWARE OF HER: Drat you know my secret now.

8. AMY FEELS THAT WINE AND FOOD ARE THE PERFECT MARRIAGE: A little to much since that David can't satisfy me and Owen's always staying in me.

9. AMY FEELS VERY GUILTY, REMORSEFUL AND ANGRY WITH HERSELF FR HER "IRRESPONSIBLE" BEHAVIOR: Yep, better make it up to David.

10. AMY FEELS AT HOME, BUT DAVID IS OUT OF PLACE: Crap Owen what the hell are you doing back.

11. AMY FEELS THE FIRST ACT HAS GONE BETTER THAN SHE HAS ANTICIPATED, THE APPLAUSE DIDN'T EVEN SOUND IRONIC: Good, well it better not be, you may be aware of me and I'm aware of you too!!!

12. AMY FEELS THAT EFFECTIVE TREATMENT WILL REQUIRE LONGER TRIALS & HIGHER DOES: Of Clive Owen right? I mean David felt out of place and obviously left since I had to schlep myself on stage.

13. AMY FEELS THAT SHE IS SUPERIOR TO TRIVIUM: Watch out Trivium, you're next.

I swear, these were all hits I found and they seem to flow well together don't they. Happy TT everyone.

HeeHee

2007-08-14T06:14:00.001-07:00

Got my edits today for MASQUE OF DESIRE, looks like the title is staying the same. I'm at the EDJ and it's only 9:15 a.m., and all I want to do is go home and work on my edits, grrrrrrr, but I can't damn it. Good thing I brought my Gig stick with my quickie on it so I can work on edits today at lunch. SQUEE!

How silly is that, I'm given alot of work and I'm excited. Course if it was my boss at the EDJ I'd give him the evil eye and bitch about it to myself for the rest of the day ... hey wait I do that everyday in the EDJ.

I'm slowly coming up to speed with Sven, the headache is gone. Thanks for all the well wishes and the "home cure" remedies! ;)

I swear I am a barometer, although it was suggested that I had ESP, which I could believe but if someone is trying to send me a message and the line is busy please, please come back another day, man that sucker hurt.

What are you up to do on the black hole that is Tuesday?

Poetry Monday

2007-08-13T15:40:00.000-07:00

I'm tired, I've had a headache for two days. I dragged myself to my chapter meeting hepped up on Advils, but still the headache is there.

So for Poetry Monday I'm going to share another of my favorite Shel Silverstein poems.

The Bat

"Eek," the baby bat cried out in fright
"Turn on the darkness I'm afraid of the light!"

How fitting since my eyes can't take any brightness right now. I feel like Wrath in JR Ward
s Dark Lover, which I am devouring. Dang you Wylie, Leah and Christine for pushing me towards her, now I'm stuck in a book I can't put down.

I''m slowly getting my 1500 words for tonight so Sven will be happy. I'll post my word count later.

Happy Poetry Monday.

Thursday Thirteen #32

2007-08-08T15:54:00.001-07:00

THURSDAY THIRTEEN

As promised from my Monday poem about jam, here are thirteen pictures from a delightful visit to London Ontario's very own Eldon House. I didn't know existed in the city where I lived. Of course I'm fairly new to London, Ontario. I have only been here 5 years. Just a newbie still.

Eldon House, the oldest residence in London was built by John Harris in the year 1834. It was donated to the City of London in 1959 by the family with all the original contents. Making that unique in itself.

This is a picture of the first room on the right, the Library. My favorite room. Adorned with that gorgeous hand painted pressed silk wallpaper. It's a dull red now, from the years of oil lamps, but in guide told me there is a trunk full of the wall paper (rolls and rolls of it) upstairs and the original colour was a bright terra cotta. The books, OY, they made me drool.

Here is another view of the spectacular library. Upon reading up about some of the family members of the Harris family I was intrigued to read about John and Amelia's daughter Teresa Necomen. Her first husband William John Scott died while they were travelling in India. In 1877 she remarried an explorer St. George Littledale and with him journeyed to places rarely seen by women, including Tibet. Sounds like the Canadian version of my Willa Ashbury from Journey to the Peak of Desire.

The next room was this gorgeous, spacious drawing room, with a bell pull. Outside those large windows is a wrap around porch, covered with a canopy of vines. This is where we had our tea, but before the tea, have a gander at the next picture.

This chandelier. I love it.

Tea with my Mom (who I didn't put a picture up cause if I did she'd kill me) and me and my Aunt Margaret (same reason as my mom why there's no picture). It was a rainy day, but we weren't affected because of the protective canopy of the vines.

Brianna BOO drank pearl tea. Which was mostly milk with some sugar and a little bit of tea. She drank it out of a china cup and just absolutely had a ball eating scones with strawberry jam that spilled on my blouse. Everyone there thought she was so cute and well behaved for almost 4. HA if they only knew her at home some days.

After tea we continued to tour the house. The upstairs rooms were gorgeous. This is the pink room, the room of Milly Harris. It was her niece and nephew that she helped raise in Eldon House that donated the house and the contents when she died. I guess you could say she was a spinster. Her brother who worked in Africa sent her back TONS of African art and artifacts. There is an actual Elephant foot umbrella stand.

Milly travelled and she caught this fish (the sucker is huge) in Egypt. I can't remember what kind of fish it was but the guide said that Milly was only 4 and half feet, so this fish is about the size of her.

More African artifacts sent to Milly from her brother. The Harris family was well traveled so there are lots of interesting things from around the world in this home. For example the wall paper is from Japan.

The Dining room as it would be circa late 1800's. I'm telling you this tour was just a plethora of research for me as a Historical author.

Now I can tell you a little something, I have a sixth sense. I'm not joking. I can sense things when I go into homes or buildings. Sometimes I won't go in a place, my body won't let me. Whether there is something bad in there I don't know. I have had many weird paranormal instances. When I came into Eldon house a shiver ran down my spine, hairs stood up on the back of my neck, but in a good way. My aunt has the same sight as me, only more so. She turned and looked at me and we both agreed, friendly. I was upstairs looking into the green room when ...

This locked cupboard went BANG and opened up. Not all the way as it was locked, but it was still weird. I said hello and thanked the spirit (of Milly I believe) for letting me visit her house.

I think she likes the company, likes the visitors and well wishers to her home.

If you're ever in London, check out the Eldon House, it's an amazing piece of Canadianna.

Muse is coming back

2007-08-07T19:18:00.000-07:00

For a week I didn't write nuthin' and I mean nuthin'. I don't know what happened but Sven was ticked off.

Tonight I got my muse back. I wrote 2500 words. So in total to date I have written 32,403 words out of 65K that I have to write by September sometime. I went from 7k to roughly 11k on the Demon Duke.

I'm going to bed. Oh and Robin L. Rotham's Seniorella releases tomorrow from Ellora's Cave. Check out Six Degrees of Sexy on Wednesday for some Seniorella hype.

As for the picture ... um ya ... I don't know why I posted it other than it's freaking hilarious to me at 10 p.m., on a no caffeine no carb diet.

Poetry Monday

2007-08-06T15:40:00.000-07:00

I just came back from a traditional English tea at Eldon House the oldest home in London, Ontario.

Boo had a great time. Everyone thought she was so cute in her dress drinking what my Aunt calls "pearl tea" mostly milk and just a dribble of tea.

The house is beautiful. It was donated by the Harris family to the City of London in 1959 with all of it's original furniture and papers.

It's a gorgeous home, gorgeous. The wallpaper is Japanese silk that has a pressed design in it and hand painted. Adorning the walls are many items from around the world and the book shelves are full of antique books that I would love to get my hands on.

So here's my poem about Boo and her tea party.

Boo had tea at Eldon House
She was as quiet as a church mouse
She had pearl tea
Under a canopy tree
And Mommy spilled jam on her blouse.

Cause I totally did, but still she loved it. It was so much fun. I took lot's of pictures that I'll upload for my Thursday Thirteen this week. Now, back to writing.

HELLLLLP SVEN'S AFTER ME WITH A WHIP

2007-08-04T08:58:00.001-07:00

Help, I haven't written a word since my incredible 7k last Sunday. Sven is coming after me!!!! I've just been so busy this week, I've been judging entries for my chapters Golden Opportunity Contest, reading my CP's WIP from start to finish and she's doing the same for Journey. Two days this week was rushing around to lawyer and broker appointments to make our debt vanish forever! Muwahahahahahaha and then Thursday and Friday I got bombarded with my EC contract stuff and a request for an interview for the EC newsletter.

YIKES, it's all business stuff. It's cool, but my writing has taken a hit. It won't get any better today I'm going to a friend's potluck backyard BBQ, Sunday I'm taking my daughter, mother and my aunt to a traditional English Tea at Eldon House downtown London. It's Boo's reward for learning to use the potty. Then after that we might mosey on over to Harris park where the London Hot Air Balloon fest launches this weekend and Pocoyo and a couple other cartoon characters will be making an appearance.

Hopefully I will get to write at least 3k in the course of this weekend at least it's a long weekend and I get Monday off.

What are you up to?

Interview with Terra Kent

2007-08-03T18:44:00.000-07:00

I'm blogging at Six Degrees of Sexy today where I am honored to interview my critique partner and friend multi e-book published Terra Kent.

So go on over and give her some love!!

Thursday Thirteen #31

2007-08-01T17:21:00.000-07:00

I'm feeling glurch which I think is the start of a sinus infection. Not pretty let me tell you. Since I was on Hiatus last week here's my TT, 13 ways to say Hello in different languages.

1. FRENCH: SALUT or BONJOUR

2. ESTONIAN: TERE

3. IRISH GAEILGE: DIA DHUIT

4. ITALIAN: CIAO or SALVE

5. NORWEGIAN: HEI or HALLO

6. SWEDISH: HEJ

7. TURKISH: MERHABA

8. SPANISH: HOLA

9. ICELANDIC: HALLO`

10. GERMAN: HALLO or GUTEN TAG (There's another one put I couldn't type it in English)

11. FINISH: HEI

12. GREEK: GEIA SOU

13. MACEDONIA: ZDRAVO

I say hello in many ways, lately it's be OY, and Oy can mean alot of things lately, the EDJ has been sucking big time. Happy TT everyone.

Glurch

2007-08-01T06:30:00.000-07:00

I have a headache that's turning into a migraine. Go on over to Six Degrees of Sexy, Wylie is posting about hunks and has a great mini gallery going on.

Oh glurch is the descriptive word to describe the way my head feels. Stuff is glurching and swirling up there.

See ya tomorrow for Thursday Thirteen.

Plotting

2007-07-30T18:02:00.001-07:00

I'm blogging over at Six Degrees of Sexy on Tuesday. I'm talking about Plotting and Panting for Writer's Corner.

So head on over there and say hi to me, and you can read about my writing habits.

Or you could just stare in awe at this gorgeous piece of eye candy. Phantom kiss. *sigh*. Was I the only one disappointed that there was no Phantom sex in the movie version. I was hoping as they couldn't really show that on stage that somehow Christine and the Phantom would be getting in on in the movie.

Alas, I guess it's up to me to write that one, and I am writing something along those lines with The Demon Duke, heheehehe.

Sven and Poetry Monday and Schtuff

2007-07-29T17:57:00.001-07:00

Ahhh, gratuitous pick of Gerard Butler makes my over tired brain soothed. Crikey, I have been working for Sven today. I did 28 pages and about 7k in words for story I started before Journey, but abandoned for Journey. The Demon Duke, formerly titled The Dark Duke.

It was going to be a straight historical, I've decided to heat it up a smidge to submit to EC.

Anyways, so I smoked Sven's bum today. I haven't ever enjoyed a spanking soooo much.

Here's my poem for poetry Monday.

Here sits a writer named Amy,
whose brain is on fire and quite flamey.
She wrote too many words,
she feels like a nerd
and she wishes Gerard would come tame me.

That poem probably doesn't make a lick of sense, but I am slowly loosing the ability to form coherent words together. Good night. Check out Six Degrees of Sexy tomorrow, Renee Field is featuring her Under the Covers pick of Robin L. Rotham's Alien Overnight.

Whoo, I've read it, and I wouldn't mind if those extra nubbed guys wanted to tame me too. Yowzer.

Oy, hubby's gonna sigh sadly again when he read this post. Love you sweetie, you know that. Kisses.

Treasure Hunts and Bookshelves OH MY!!

2007-07-28T08:12:00.000-07:00

I got home yesterday, early cause I wasn't feeling well, and I had no cable and no internet. ARGHHHHH!!!! Anyways, I'm catching up now.

First, there's a great contest at SIX DEGREES OF SEXY. Wylie's put on a treasure hunt and you can win a FREE E-Book, now that's a great contest. So head on over and test your luck.

Speaking of Wylie, she tagged me for the bookshelf meme. Here's 15 books on my shelf.

1. HARRY POTTER & THE DEATHLY HALLOWS by J.K. Rowling
2. INDIA by Lonely Planet
3. ANNE OF GREEN GABLES by L.M. Montgomery
4. FIRE ME UP by Katie MacAlister
5. THORNYHOLD by Mary Stewart
6. HISTORY OF ART Janson 5th Edition (haha me too Wylie!!)
7. The Play that Brings bad luck to actors therefore it can't be named by William Shakespeare
8. THE LORD OF THE RINGS by Tolkein
9. TRAMPE ROYALE by Heinlein
10. THE CHRYSALIDS by John Wyndham
11. EROTIC WRITING FOR DUMMIES by Alison Kent
12. PERSUASION by Jane Austen
13. THE MUMMY by Anne Rice
14. THE SHINING by Stephen King
15. THE EAGLE AND RAVEN by Pauline Gedge

So that's a small, and I mean small smattering of what I have on my shelf. Sven's gonna beat me though, I haven't done a lick of writing since Wednesday.

Friday Snippet

2007-07-27T07:50:00.000-07:00

Oy, Ann I almost forgot. I went to bed so early last night that the birds were still chirping. YIKES.

Anyways, my first Friday Snippet. I just finished JOURNEY TO THE PEAK OF THE DESIRE a week or so ago, so here's a snippet from that piece. It's in Clive's POV. Their first kiss. Oh ya, if you're 18, see you later. This is not for minors.

No, he had to be careful that he didn't get to close to Willa Ashbury. Avery would never forgive him if he deflowered his lovely twin sister, but then again ... he reached forward and grabbed Willa by her shoulders, crushing her against his strong chest before he claimed her mouth with a surprising need to taste the tongue that had enflamed him so.

She tasted so damn sweet, like cherries. Her crimson lips were soft and pliant, she offered up no resistance as his tongue slowly prodded at her lips, before sneaking in further for a deeper taste.

He heard her moan and he allowed his hand to stray down the smooth fabric of her bodice, pleased to feel that she didn't wear a corset. His hand skimmed around her slim waist before settling on her hip. He pulled her hips hard against his throbbing erection, grinding it against her.

Clive was totally lost in the moment of savoring her when Will bit down hard on his tongue. The coppery taste of his blood filled his mouth and distracted him only for a moment until he felt her strong little fist plow him in the gut.

"Christ," he cursed as he doubled over and rolled onto the floor of the coach, which he now realized had stopped.

"Serves you right," she said haughtily opening the door and climbing out.

He pulled himself up on his knees. "What the hell did you do that for?"

"If you don't know Sir Clive, I'm not going to tell you. Now, if you can keep control of yourself you are more than welcome in my home." And with that she turned and walked up the small stones steps into her Chelsea town house.

Clive watched her hips sway as she climbed the stone steps. "Bloody woman," he cursed as he regained his composure. He'd be a damn fool if he ever tried that again. He climbed out of the coach and slammed the door shut. He head the chuckle from the hackney driver as the coach rattled away down the cobblestone street.

He straightened his jacket. "Bloody woman," he cursed one more time before following Willa up the steps into her home.

So that's it, a first draft of Journey. It's going through the editing process right now.

Happy Friday everyone.

Thursday Thirteen

2007-07-25T19:59:00.000-07:00

I have to take a hiatus from TT this week. It's after 11 p.m., and I just got back from Emergency. We thought that Boo had a UTI, it turns out it was a rash in a hidden spot.

So, Boo's happy and comfortable now, after screaming to put her anitbiotic on. What did Boo get out of it. She got to talk to Dr. Dave (the nicest Dr.) and got three stickers and a purple popsicle. What did Mommy get? A headache, a load of worry, relief and happiness and no writing done.

See you next week.

Opera Singing Ants etc.,

2007-07-24T14:48:00.000-07:00

My daughter is watching watching Wonder Pets and there are ants fighting over fruit and well ... the ants sing opera. *sigh*.

As for writing, I did only about 1k last night. I plan to work it a bit tonight. I printed off a story I was working on just after NaNo last year and plan to work on it a bit more. So that's how I am for writing.

Tomorrow I will be blogging on SIX DEGREES OF SEXY. It's our first Hump Day Hunk and I have a very tasty bit of morsel to share with all of you.

So be sure to check out SIX DEGREES OF SEXY. Today was a Zexy feature on commas.

Anyways, back to writing, and a bit of a tasty morsel ... as a tease, since the old WIP I dusted off is about a masked Duke. I seem to have an obsession with masked men lately ... hmmm have to think about that further.

Poetry Monday

2007-07-22T16:56:00.001-07:00

So, I just finished reading Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows. WOW, that’s all I can say. Goblet of Fire was my number one all time fave HP, and it has been replaced by the last and final book in the Harry Potter series. Bravo Ms. Rowling, bravo.

Here’s a poem about Harry Potter, and not giving away any stuff, I’m not into spoilers.

THE BOY WHO LIVED

Protected by love, the death curse failed
Left an orphan, all alone, no one to love you
No place to call home.

Hogwarts it seemed
Like a dream come true
Hermione and Ron best friends through and through

Year after year you vanquish the Dark Lord
Philosopher Stone, Basilisk, and Dementors galore

Triwizard Cups, betrayed by a foe,
Your blood now prized, by the Dark one who grows

Order of Phoenix, Half Blood Prince
A tough decision to make
Poor Ron got a bit splinched

I won’t say anymore
For those who have not read
Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows and the legend of the Boy Who Lived

No, I haven’t ruined anything for anyone. I hope it doesn’t suck it’s been a long time since I actually wrote a poem longer than a limerick.

SURVIVE MY FIRE

2007-07-22T11:22:00.001-07:00

I just finished reading Joely Sue Burkhart's SURVIVE MY FIRE available from Drolliere Press (did I spell that right?).

What a great book. I love dragons and this beautiful myth of love conquering all really sucked me in.

Here's the excerpt from Drolliere Press about this book.

Hundreds of warriors have braved my domain. They came, and they died.

I killed them all.

In a land of poisoned sands and unending drought, Chanda has been trapped as a dragon for centuries. When yet another warrior comes to her lair, she wants to eat him. The last one was certainly tasty.

As the last dragon warrior of his tribe, Jalan must kill the White Dragon to save his people. He survives her teeth and claws. He even survives her Fire. Yet he loses the battle to protect his heart from the proud, fierce woman revealed by the silvered full moon.

While Jalan must choose between his heart and his tribe, Chanda realizes she may at last break her curse forever... if she's willing to make the greatest sacrifice of all.

If that doesn't convince you to buy it I don't know what will. It's amazing, that's all I have to say I couldn't put it down. Joely you a have a beautiful gift of painting vivid imagery.

Ok, back to editing and Harry Potter, oh and I have to check out the meme's Rhi tagged me with and get ready for poetry Monday.

Scroll down for my Sven Progress.

Oh Sven ...

2007-07-21T20:41:00.000-07:00

Oh Sven, I'm done project one. JOURNEY TO THE PEAK OF DESIRE is finit. I broke away from Harry Potter long enough to finish JOURNEY tonight. The 20,000 words I had to finish for Journey are complete. Now the rest of the Seventy Days of Sweat will focus on Hunters for Hire.

WOOT, I can't believe I am done. Now I have to edit the sucker and get it critiqued.

I'm in shock, I can't believe I finished it. I've been thinking about it for so long, talking about it, researching my brains out and it's done. Done. Now I just have to sell it.

I'm sure my editing will bring the word count up 5k more to get to 75,000 words. First draft I knew would only get me to about 70K, which I hit tonight.

Well, Sven is happy and now I get some rewards. Don't know what, sleep as it's midnight.

Good night, oh and don't forget to check out SIX DEGREES OF SEXY (shameless plug I know). :)

THE BOND THAT TIES US

2007-07-20T17:21:00.001-07:00

I just finished Christine D'abo's debut novel THE BOND THAT TIES US from Ellora's Cave.

Go buy it. It rocks, it's hot, spicy and full of adventure and suspense. Especially if you're a fan of Sci Fi the world Christine has created is original and so believable.

So what are you waiting for? It's available now, no waiting in line at midnight, you can get it from the comfort of your own home.

Also, stop by our team blog SIX DEGREES OF SEXY, where we are debuting Christine's first release THE BOND THAT TIES US.

If you can't think of anything to say BONK

2007-07-20T06:57:00.000-07:00

No, I actually don't condone that. Last night I was working on Journey and I'm getting close to the end but I didn't know where to take my characters. They are getting close to the black moment, and then I realized my character was changing, she was becoming soft when she's been strong through the whole manuscript.

So I had to change that and instead of another conversation that would turn into an argument saying the same things over and over she took what she wanted, and they bonked. It worked well.

Now, go and check out this amazing blog:

SIX DEGREES OF SEXY

Flugah

2007-07-19T16:34:00.000-07:00

Flugah is my new word to describe being run off your arse and then coming to a rest. This is supposed to be my vacation and I've been flugahed to death. I'm also burnt to death. I made sure my children had adequate sunblock, but I forgot about me. Whoops. The thing is it won't turn into a tan, it'll just peel and I'll go that oh so lovely shade of pasty white. My father and brother both got the wonderful light coppery skin tones of our first nation heritage. I crapped out and got my mother's white pasty English skin tone. *Sigh*

Being disconnected was terrible, horrific. I felt so lost, and that's sad in a way, but ever since I started blogging and getting to know fellow writers I have to say that I don't feel like I'm floating aimlessly on my own. I feel great. I feel like I am part of something greater, and it's good.

Speaking of being part of something exciting, as you all are aware tomorrow is release day for Christine, and also release of an exciting team blog known as Six Degrees of Sexy. So check that out tomorrow, we'll be launching it off talking about Christine's book THE BOND THAT TIES US.

Also, check out Joely's blog, SURVIVE MY FIRE is being released tomorrow.

I can't wait to read both. Now, back on to writing. With my burn I don't want Sven to crack that whip on my back. Yowch.

Hopefully my flugah mood shall pass.

Back Briefly

2007-07-17T18:46:00.000-07:00

Here's my micro second of being back. Argh, I hate being disconnected from the hive. I know, I know, how very Borgesque of me. This is my vacation but it's so freaking busy. I will be back on Thursday for sure, but not with a TT.

Writing is going well, I'm going to report to Sven whilst I have a chance. I don't think he should be too disappointed.

Oh and yes, I got my G license. Hoozah, no more road tests for me.

So, I'm off to filter through countless emails and I still have to get ready for an exciting blog that will be launching on Friday.

Here's the link Six Degrees of Sexy, and yes mois is on the team as well as some other friends you might recognize. Go check it out.

Toodles, I'll be back again soon. I miss you all, especially you Rhi, Internet free does = hell for me.

WAAAAH!!!

2007-07-15T08:11:00.000-07:00

I got to go up to the land of no wireless Internet, aka my in laws. Tomorrows my final G test and there's family stuff to do today so I won't be around until probably Tuesday.

On the plus side I'll get tons of writing done. So I'll miss Alison's report for Sweat on Sunday, but hope to wow Sven on Wednesday!!!!

It also means I'll be missing Rhi's poetry train. ARGH!!!

Have a great one everyone, I miss you all already. :)

SWEAT Day 5

2007-07-12T19:08:00.000-07:00

I was bad yesterday, didn't write a red cent. Today, I didn't do to bad. I wrote 1,555 words and did about 8 pages on Journey.

Yesterday I got wrapped up in GENE SIMMONS FAMILY JEWELS. Great show. I wasn't much for the Osbournes, but this show, wow. I am really impressed by the maturity of Gene Simmons and Shannon Tweed's kids. I also love the interaction of Gene and Shannon. He may talk all big as he's the tongue guy from Kiss but that guy's whipped and a big softy.

I highly recommend it, but that's why I procrastinated yesterday. EEP.

I made up for it today.

Thursday Thirteen #30

2007-07-11T17:38:00.000-07:00

My most uncreative TT, but I'm in the midst of 70 Days of Sweat, and I am working my buns off on Journey right now. I googled my name, here are 13 things I need according to google.

1. AMY NEEDS TO EITHER WAKE UP OR START GETTING SOME EXTRA WILL POWER.

2. AMY NEEDS SOME HELP DRINKING APPARENTLY

3. AMY NEEDS TO EAT A SANDWHICH (ooooh they read my mind)

4. AMY DOES NEED REHAB (why apparently I need help drinking)

5. AMY NEEDS A BASSIST (and the purpose would be ?)

6. AMY NEEDS A BREAK (yep a kit kat even)

7. AMY NEEDS A SERIOUS MAKEOVER (ok now you're just being mean)

8. AMY NEEDS TO PEEEEEE! (it's ok I can manage on my own thankyou)

9. AMY NEEDS HUG (well ya, after all your mean comments!)

10. AM NEEDS TO MOVE BACK TO DEERPARK (I don't even know where that is, but if you'll hug me I'll go).

11. AMY NEEDS TO TALK TO SOMEBODY ABOUT IT (probably a realtor, someone who know's where Deerpark is).

12. AMY NEEDS A GOOD QUALITY PIZZA TO KEEP HER MOJO GOING (yep)

13. AMY NEEDS TO GET BACK TO WORK!!! (that ones mine!)

HAPPY TT

No Velvet Elvis

2007-07-10T18:10:00.000-07:00

I just had to post this when I saw Bonnie's comment about a velvet Elvis. That's for you sugah, and he's dressed like Santa Elvis, even more festive.

So Nationals starts tomorrow (sigh) and I am at home, still waiting on my contract (but I understand it's Nationals).

On the positive side I made good progress tonight. I did 12 pages tonight and about 2200k. I hit 55k in Journey, nothing on HFH, but I've just had a breakaway in JOURNEY, got to the climax tonight. Now, I have to bring them down off the mountains, have the black moment and build it into a happily ever after. I need to be able to stretch this out in 20k. Hopefully I can accomplish this.

I am getting so sick of the EDJ. So sick of it, but that's a whole 'nother can of worms.

As for being sad about Nationals I am letting my self think of Frisco next year, because I'm saving and I am planning on going for I have a great excuse now that I've sold a book. It's all about networking baby.

Have a good night, and remember in the immortal words of Elvis "Don't be cruel to a heart that's true, uhn huh, have mercy."

Amy Ruttan

Release Day & Gorillas!

Resolutions

2011 In Review

Happy Holidays

Whoa

Guest Blogger Julia Phillips Smith

ALIVE

New Release: Gladiator's Seduction

Six Sentence Sunday

New Team Blog

Sunday Six

Guest Blog-Anya Delvay

Silken Sheets & Seduction + HUGE giveaway

Six Sentence Sunday

Buried alive

Six Sentence Sunday

Six Sentence Sunday

Halfway

Aug 40k Update

Six Sentence Sunday

August 40k

Six Sentence Sunday

While the cat's away...

Over at Shiloh Walker's blog

Playing Catchup.

MayNoWriMo First Day Status report, 3rd day in.

New Cover

INCARNATE

Romance Trading Cards, they're coming!

Release Day

Happy April!

Make Tomorrow Yours

New Release

March ... really?

New Sale

Happy Valentines Day

New Print Release

Happy February

Funny for a Friday

The King's Speech

Upcoming Chat with PRIZES

In the cave.

Year in retrospect

Ebil Ebil plots and the final season of The Tudors *sigh*

Some new tricks learned...

Happy Holidays

Three, Two, One ... THUNDERBIRDS ARE A GO!

ALIVE!

New Release & Snowmageddon

Fantastic Review & Other Assorted Things

New Release-Gladiator's Revenge

Back

NEW SITE

FOLLOW ME TO THE NEW SITE

Gone Going Gone

A Contest

I'm Moving

No TT

Day from *Glurch*

Monday *yawn* Huh?

Lover Revealed

Thursday Thirteen #34

Head on over ...

One of those days ....

Poetry Monday! HOORAY I did it!

Progress

Just Happy Dancing

TT Hiatus ... *sigh* again.

Lunch with a Minx!!!

Monday Monday

Day at the Zoo

Thoughtful Blogger Award

I'm Free, I'm Free

Thursday Thirteen #33

HeeHee

Poetry Monday

Thursday Thirteen #32

Muse is coming back

Poetry Monday

Ebil Ebil plots and the final season of The Tudors sigh

Day from Glurch

Monday yawn Huh?

TT Hiatus ... sigh again.

Glurch