Ignorance is Bliss - Sometimes

For the last year I’ve been dealing with well, a high risk pregnancy, a new baby and other stuff. During that time one of my publishers fell apart and I was oblivious. Now I’m not one to bad mouth a publisher, but enough is enough.
Aspen Mountain Press has failed to provide me with royalty statements for the last year. I’ve received exactly 2 checks since October 2010 and both were under $15 for seven books. I’m sorry, but even if my books weren’t selling on their site, they are on the third party vendor sites.
As of today most of the third party sites have taken down books from Aspen Mountain and their home site seems to be unavailable due to maintenance. Yeah right. I’m hoping this is the demise of them so I can finally get my rights back and self-publish my seven books.
I have made several attempts to contact the publisher via, email, phone, snail mail and certified letters. Said publisher has ignored all attempts.
So this blog today is to request that if any readers want to purchase my Aspen Mountain books – PLEASE DON’T. Wait until the end of the year and you’ll be able to get them for cheaper when I self-publish them!
The moral of this story is to stay current with your publishers and make sure you’re getting statements and the money owed. I wish I wasn’t so oblivious and discovered this far too late in the game. Maybe I wouldn’t be battling to get my rights back.

Naughty St. Nick

Today I'm sharing my newest and last release for 2010. Just in time for the holiday season! :o)

Available now from Aspen Mountain Press







Blurb:
Nick has fought his attraction to Emily since the summer. Work and other commitments have kept him from pursuing a relationship. Christmas is upon them and Nick finds he has free time on his hands. He sets in motion a little plan to get her sexy body prepared for what he hopes will be a night of passion she’ll never forget.
Someone is sending Emily erotic toys. The naughty notes attached are charging her dormant body to life with promises of red hot sex. She’s not sure who her secret Santa is, but if he’s truly following the Twelve Days of Christmas she’s about to find out.
Will Emily succumb to this Naughty St. Nick?

Excerpt:
Emily pattered over to the front door. She peered through the peephole.
"Hmmm, I swear I heard the doorbell." She threw opened the door against the bitter cold of the winter storm brewing outside. Shivering, she bent over the threshold and glanced in both directions. Her skin pebbled from the snowflakes landing on her bare arms.
"Strange, I know the doorbell rang." She was about to close the door when she noticed a small brown box, sitting off to the right.
Intrigued, she placed a sock covered foot into the icy snow and retrieved the box. She quickly slammed the door and hurried back to her blanket on the couch. She nestled under the red fuzzy blanket. Turning the box in her hands she looked for an addressee.
"Nothing." She couldn’t help but wonder if it were meant for her or if someone left it on her doorstep mistakenly. She shook the box. Something bounced around inside. Unable to fight her curiosity any longer she tore open the package. There inside was a mistletoe-colored finger butt plug, with little white snowmen on it. Tingling sensations warmed her body straight down to her core. Thoughts of teasing the rim of her ass with the humming vibrator tantalized her.
She needed to know who sent it. Digging deeper into the box she searched for a card or anything cluing her in to who the sender was. She found a tiny note card that read:
On the first day of Christmas my true love gave me to, one butt plug a hummin’.
Emily thought she’d explode into orgasm right then and there. The idea of someone wanting to charge her ass to life enthralled her. Filled with an arousal that ran deep, Emily knew she had to pleasure herself.
Heat from the flames crackling in the fireplace warmed her chilled body, smoothing her skin. The television blared in the background, but Emily tuned it out. She’d been watching a movie about a money heist on a train or something crazy. It hadn’t held her attention. Turning the plug over in her hands, she found something that gripped her total attention. She couldn’t imagine who would send her something so erotic.
Settling into the pillow she closed her eyes and pictured the guy from Six A, as the bearer of her gift. His wavy blond hair and those piercing green eyes charged her body. She’d fantasized about him a few times. Oh who was she kidding she masturbated to the image of his shit eating grin too many times to count.
Emily longed to run her hand over his taunt abs. She wanted to trace a finger along the vee that disappeared below the trim of his pants to see if it went down to his cock, which she knew would be large and bulging. It seemed hard to believe she’d been drooling over him since summer.
After she witnessed his body in scant clothing she wanted a piece of him.

Talk Dirty to Topaz

For some reason my books over at Aspen Mountain Press don't get enough exposure. These are some of my favorites. Today I'm going to give you a little taste of Talk Dirty to Topaz.

Buy Link: Talk Dirty to Topaz

Blurb:

Interior Designer Teagan Topaz doesn’t believe in love, after finding her fiancé in bed doing the nasty with another woman. Nine long months later Teagan finds herself sexually frustrated, due to a recent surge of explicit sex phone calls on her business line. Frank Black needs Teagan’s expertise to put the finishing touches on a room in his house, but he fantasizes about tying her up and ravishing her. Will Teagan be able to resist the designs Frank has for her?

Excerpt:

Holy shit!
Teagan couldn’t remember ever experiencing such intensity before. Stars flashed before her eyes as Frank drove her over the edge, tumbling to ecstasy.
Both feet back on the floor, Teagan rested her head on his shoulder, allowing herself time to catch her breath and time to wonder what the fuck she was thinking.
Yes, it was a mind-blowing experience, but she wasn’t the type to let her inhibitions go and succumb to a man she just met. But she had to admit, Frank Black wasn’t just any man. There was something about him, something that made Teagan want to stay and learn more about him. She wanted to figure out what this attraction was she felt. There was attraction; a deep one that scared the shit out of her.
She hadn’t felt this way since Tim and her instincts were dead wrong about him. She didn’t want to make the same mistakes trusting another man. Maybe it was the phone calls. They had her sexually frustrated and needing release. Maybe she was confusing the need for sex with attraction. But damn, Frank did know how to please her.
Teagan felt empty as Frank stepped back, but her emptiness didn’t last long. He wrapped her in his arms, planting gentle kisses on her face.
“You’re an amazingly beautiful woman, Teagan Topaz.”
She blushed, unused to so many compliments.
“I could make love to you all night long.”
Teagan’s stomach grumbled before she had a chance to respond.
“But first, I must feed you.”
She laughed nervously.
“You’ll need energy for what I have in store for you.”
“What about Susan?” Teagan asked. As exciting as the prospect sounded, his sister lived in his house and would be returning home eventually.
“We’ll worry about that after dinner.”
Frank helped Teagan put her clothes back in order, and then kissed the tip of her nose. “I’d rather have dessert first…”

Back to the Real World

Wow! I feel like I’ve been out of touch with the real world for a week. Oh, I have. I returned late last night from Romanticon 2010. Ellora’s Cave puts on one helluva party. I drooled all over the cavemen. LOL
When Angelo walked in to the meet and greet, my DH said, “Oh I know him, he’s plastered all over the house.”
This is true. He’s on the cover of Dante’s Desire, which I think is one hot cover. I must say, Angelo is ten times hotter in person and his accent will melt you. I know a Latin lover will show up in a future book.
I also got to meet an amazing group of authors. I formed new friendships and bonded with many I’ve known online. My hubby was a great sport about being at a conference. A few women brought their husbands.
I came home to so much good news. First Adrift received a Top Pick 5 star review from Night Owl Reviews. If you’d like to see what they had to say, check it out here:
http://www.nightowlreviews.com/nor/Reviews/Ursshebear-reviews-Adrift-by-Amber-Skyze.aspx

Adrift was also the Fresh pick on October 9th over at Fresh Fiction. Talk about publicity. Do you know how many people they reach daily? I couldn’t ask for better promo. :0)
Lastly, I received a contract for my Christmas story – Naughty St. Nick. It will be released on December 10th from Aspen Mountain Press. They published my first Christmas story two years ago. YAY.
Today I have to spend the day getting caught up around the house and at work. I’m hoping to get some pics up from Romanticon and finish the quickie I was working on before I left.

Until next week!
PS…Anyone start planning their NaNo book yet? I’ll talk more about mine plans next week.

The Book That Started It All

First I want to say Happy Birthday to my husband, who turns 40 today. This is HIS favorite book to date. Whenever he tells people his wife writes he tells them about Mistletoe Studs.

This book came out in Dec 2008 and still gets rave reviews. Here's a little taste in honor of my DH.

Got Studs? Christmas may be over, but these twins will heat you up on any night.

Mistletoe Studs available now at www.aspenmountainpress.com

Blurb:

Meg Trainor has one wish for Christmas every year: Two men who will fulfill all her fantasies.Santa's in a giving mood this year.Brothers and co-owners of Turquoise Toys, Brad and Shane Griffin will give her a Christmas she'll never forget.

Excerpt:

“Did someone come without asking permission?” Shane asked.

“I’m afraid Meg has been a very naughty girl already. And to think I just finished with her first punishment.”

“I’m sorry,” she offered. She was far from sorry. That was the most mind boggling orgasm she’d ever experienced. Blood rushing to the tips of her nerve endings in her buttocks, to the core of her pussy as his finger drove home faster and faster, it was perfect.

“That didn’t sound sincere to me. What do you think Brad?”

“I think she likes being a naughty girl. Do you like being punished like a naughty girl Meg? Is that why you came without permission?”

“I didn’t know I needed permission. No one told me,” she said in her own defense.

They hadn’t told her, not that it would have made a difference. There was no holding that one back.

“She’s right. We didn’t tell her.” Shane defended her. “This time we let her go. But she did speak without permission. Maybe it’s time to find something to keep her quiet.”

What was he thinking? One of those ball gags she seen on the flyer? She didn’t have to wait long to find out.

“Take the blindfold off her,” Shane said to Brad.

Shane knelt on the couch in front of Meg’s bent body. His hard shaft glared at her, pre-cum begging for her to lick it off, releasing it from its straining desire. The sound of Brad shucking off his clothes was evident behind her. Meg dared to be brave and swiped a lick of the tip of Shane’s head.

“Wow, little lady,” Shane jumped to his feet. “That’s definitely not allowed without my permission.”

“I thought…” she gave him an innocent look, licking her lips.

“You thought what?” Shane challenged.

“I thought you wanted me to taste you.”

“I think someone really enjoys being punished,” Shane stated.

“Either that or she doesn’t realize who’s in control here. Maybe it’s time to show her,” Brad suggested.

“Stand up,” Brad demanded.

Obediently, Meg stood, stretching; she watched the muscles in Brad’s back flexing as he walked over to the table. The way his butt cheeks tightened was so sexy. He had a gorgeous body. She wanted to explore every inch of his body, taste every delicious inch of skin. Would he allow her the opportunity when all was said and done? When they finally had their car fixed and were able to resume their lives would Brad Griffin allow Meg the chance to examine his body closer or would he drive off into the horizon never to be seen again? She couldn’t bear the thought of never seeing him again. Meg shook away the thoughts. For now, she’d concentrate on the glory of the day and the gifts they were offering.

Brad meant business when he said he was going to show her who was in charge this time. The paddle he carried now looked like a glossy two by four with a small handle on the end, nothing like the cute little one he used earlier. She remembered; it was called the Turquoise Smacker in the flyer.

Brain is Fried!

I don't have much to say today. Life is crazy and I'm trying to catch up from being away all weekend. I managed to finish my Cougar Challenge book. I'm halfway done with edits so it will be in my editors hands soon.

I hit the 10k mark for Stranded the book for the new publisher. Only 15k to go! LOL

Here's an excerpt from a book from my backlist. Talk Dirty to Topaz is available from Aspen Mountain Press

Enjoy!

“Get a life!” Teagan slammed the phone down on the desk.

I want to tie you up and tease your pussy.

Maybe she was the one who needed a life. A sex life to be exact.

That was the third call this morning. Sexual frustration grew with each passing minute. She had a business to run and someone thought her business number was some sort of sex hotline. The recent surge of prank calls was taking a toll on her mentally and physically. The caller knew her deep dark desires. How could he? She hadn’t shared them with many people. She had to know this person. He knew too many details of her fantasies—like he was reading her mind.

Teagan needed sex, so the thought of being tied up and teased was very appealing in many ways. Her last real sexual encounter and not one from a rubbery, vibrating friend was nine months ago, when she’d ended her four-year relationship with Tim.

Teagan had given herself to Tim completely and the loser had cheated on her, shattering her heart into a million tiny pieces.

The phone rang again. “Designs by Topaz, Teagan speaking.” She held her breath, ready for the onslaught of profanities.

“Ms. Topaz?”

“Speaking.”

“I’m looking to…”

Oh fuck, not again. That voice sounded familiar, like the caller.

“This is a business line, buddy. I’m not interested in your offer for sexual pleasure.”

“Excuse me?”

“You heard me, I’m not interested.”

“I think there’s been some kind of misunderstanding. Are you Ms. Topaz, the interior designer?”

“I am.” She swallowed. She knew she’d screwed up.

Shit, she couldn’t keep doing this. She couldn’t keep expecting every call to be some guy talking dirty to her. The risk of losing true paying customers was too high. She could change her phone number, but that meant placing new ads and getting new business cards. The thought of all the potential customers not being able to reach her if she did change the number made her think twice. One thing she was certain of—when she figured out who was behind the prank phone calls (and she would find out) she’d…

Fuck them senseless. Yup getting laid was becoming a necessity for her sanity.

“I’m calling about your services.”

“Please forgive me. I’m so sorry, sir. It’s just that I’ve been getting these phone calls and…well, that’s irrelevant. How can I help you?” She wanted to die of embarrassment. She felt like an idiot. Her paranoia had reached an all time high. This had to end. She had to find out who was behind these calls – immediately.

“I’m looking to have an empty bedroom turned into a nursery. A mutual friend recommended you.”

“That was very nice of this friend, Mr…?”

“Black. Frank Black.”

Mish Mash

I swear I feel like I’ve got the early onset of Alzheimer’s disease. I can’t remember anything anymore. I almost forgot to blog today.


Let’s see what’s going on in Amber’s life. I’m not sure what I’ve blogged about so here goes nothing. If you’ve heard this all before I’m truly sorry.


I’m busy putting the final touches on my cougar story, should have this in my editors hands by Friday.


I received another contract last week or the week before for book 2 in the Freedom Fantasies series – Spend The Night With Me. Book 3 – Play With Me is with my editor.


I have an editor interested in my work. One I’ve never written for. It’s a publishing house I’ve wanted to get my foot in the door though. I sent her a short blurb of the story I’m going to write for her and she seemed genuinely excited. It’s a M/M/F – tentatively titled Stranded. I’m really excited about writing this book and promised it to her by July 1st. Please keep me in your thoughts that I can finish this project and get it in her hands. I set the deadline so I didn’t procrastinate, like I’m very good at doing.


My editor at AMP is interested in reading my romantic comedy. So, I’m working on edits to submit that one to her. Oh and I have a new release coming Friday June 4th. I haven’t received my cover art yet and I’m growing nervous with only three days left. But I know Tuesday will do an awesome job. She always does.


The book Sliding Home is M/M. Here’s a R excerpt. Until next Tuesday.


Oh before I forget. Kaye Manro has graciously allowed me to interview her. I’ve posted the interview on both my blogs. Please drop by one or both and show her some love.
http://amberskyze.blogspot.com/
http://amberskyze.wordpress.com/

Blurb:

Alex loves baseball, so when the majors come calling he is thrilled. The only thing that would make his happiness complete is a partner to share it with. Although his best friend, Rick, knows Alex is gay, he doesn't know that Alex has been in love with him for years. And with his departure for the major leagues imminent, he's not sure now is the best time to tell him. But after an evening of celebration turns into a night of pleasure, Alex is confused. Does Rick want a relationship with him? Or, will he walk out of Rick's life forever, wondering what might have been?

Alex's career has hit a home run but his love for Rick is the ultimate victory. If he can figure out a way to slide into home plate, he'll do more than score.

Excerpt:

He thought he’d seen something earlier. A spark in Rick’s gray eyes. He couldn’t have imagined it, could he? Again, when he’d rubbed up against him while they were playing pool, he saw the look.
It was desire.
Then Rick had stormed off to the bar for another drink. Was he afraid of hanging around and letting Alex see his raging hard-on?
Too late.
Alex had noticed it and got hard instantaneously. He was so hard he’d thought about going into the bathroom and rubbing himself until he felt relieved. Somehow, he knew relief wouldn’t come from masturbation so he decided against it.
Besides how would he explain his long absence?
No. Alex had suffered through.
When he asked if he could crash at his friend’s house he’d had an ulterior motive. He wanted to see if things would be different when they were alone. He wanted to know if Rick would mention how his body reacted to Alex’s.
He didn’t. In fact, he’d never mentioned it once. Even when they entered Rick’s apartment, he never said a word. He retrieved the blanket and pillow for him, before heading to his room.
One thing was certain; Rick couldn’t get out of the living room quick enough.
It was like he was afraid of what would happen if he stayed too long. Could he be wrestling with the same feelings Alex was? He wasn’t sure, but he didn’t want to act on it just yet. If his friend did have feelings for him, he wanted to address it before he had to leave.
Knowing Rick was waiting for him would make his transition much easier.
Alex wondered if he should go into Rick’s room and see if he was still awake. If he was, they could talk about what had happened. Worry settled into the pit of his stomach. What if Rick did feel something, but refused to act on it? What if he rejected Alex?
Alex couldn’t handle being rejected by his best friend. He cared for him too much. He didn’t want to ruin the friendship they had by stepping over any lines. No, it was best for him to stay put on the couch. If Rick wanted him, he would have to be the one to make the first move. That way, Alex wouldn’t be treading into uncertain waters.
Disappointed, but satisfied with his decision, Alex closed his eyes and tried to concentrate on anything other than his aching balls.
An hour later he was still struggling with the tightness in his crotch. He thought about relieving himself numerous times but was afraid of Rick walking in on him or worse—overhearing his moans.
Unable to fight the urge, Alex jumped off the couch and headed toward Rick’s bedroom.
“Fuck it.” He had nothing to lose at this point— except his friendship with Rick.

Bogged Down

I hate to use this excuse two weeks in a row, but the simple fact is – it’s the truth.
I just finished edits for Sliding Home which is coming from Aspen Mountain on June 4th. I’m in the middle of the cover art request. I have to write TWO synopses. I don’t like writing these!
I’m in the middle of writing my cougar story and still trying to finish up self-edits on book three to send off to my editor. I’m barely coming up for air these days.
I’d like to say sorry to everyone for not posting enough here lately. I’m ashamed to say I haven’t been making the rounds too much either. I’ll get back to commenting when life gets a little simpler.
The cold weather has returned to the northeast and I’m not happy. Add in the day job which has picked up…no wonder I’ve had a migraine for three days.
Til next week when I promise to have something to talk about!

Wild Lickins - Coming Feb 19th

Before I give you a taste of my newest release I want to remind everyone that voting has begun for the Love Romances Cafe Nominees. Yes, I'm up for a nomination in two categories.
If you’ve read either book up for nomination or just want to vote here’s what you have to do:
To vote: Email Dawn at dawn_roberto AT yahoo DOT com with "LRC's "BEST OF 2009 Awards" in subject. If this is not in the subject it will not be counted. In the email add: Best Contemporary of 2009 – Heat Waves and/or Best Erotic Book of 2009 – Spank Me Twice
All entries are to be in by 2/23/2010. Any entries received after that will NOT be counted and automatically deleted.

Thanks in advance for those who are voting.

Also I'm featured over at: http://erjunkiesreviews.blogspot.com/ where I'm giving away a copy of Ignited. So stop by!

Now on to Wild Lickins!!!!

My newest release will be available this Friday, February 19th from Aspen Mountain Press! http://www.aspenmountainpress.com/ YAY

Here is a blurb and excerpt:
Blurb:
Sam has secretly loved Ethan for as long as he could remember. Ethan can’t see beyond his love for their Ice Cream Shoppe Wild Lickins. To escape his desires for his best friend and business partner, Sam takes off for an overdue vacation. Coral Reef, an all male resort, promises a week of sex, sun and relaxation. It’s the perfect combination to help Sam clear his mind. What it doesn’t prepare Sam for is Jim.
Can a stranger help Sam forget about his lust for Ethan? Or is there more to the distraction than meets the eye?

Excerpt:
They rode for a good half hour before coming to a stop near an open expanse of land. From this view, you could see down over the resort. The white sands, the rolling waves, the dazzling colors—it was all spectacular.
After dismounting their horses, Jim wrapped an arm around Sam’s shoulder.
“Incredible isn’t it?”
“It is. I’m in awe.”
“I love it up here. Not that I don’t love it down there, because what’s not to love. But up here, we’re really alone. The only sounds are some exotic birds in the distance maybe an animal or two rustling in the bushes, but aside from that it’s relatively quiet.”
Sam agreed. He hadn’t heard any sounds other than their horses snorting every so often. A butterfly fluttered in front of them.
“Come on. I want to show you something.” Sam allowed Jim to take his hand and lead him off the beaten path. They left the horses behind secured to a tree.
“Where are we going?” Sam asked curiously. The thick brush scraped at his legs as Jim dragged him further and further from the trial.
“Not far. You’re going to love it I swear.”
Jim’s enthusiasm was hard to ignore and Sam didn’t believe he’d lead him astray. Whatever it was Jim definitely loved the idea of sharing it with him. Sam couldn’t help but wonder what he wanted to show him.
They walked out of the dense brush and into an open area. Sam did a double take when he saw the waterfall. The water cascaded a hundred feet into a swimming hole.
“Wow,” he said, standing there mesmerized. “Is it safe to swim?”
Sam didn’t wait for a response. He shed his clothes, ready to jump in and explore this wonderful spectacle.
“I don’t think it matters if I say no. You’re ready to go.” Jim laughed, pointing to Sam’s naked body.
“First one in is a…” Sam dove into the water. He came up refreshed from the cool water. “It’s not as warm as the ocean, but it feels good after being in the hot sun.”
He splashed water towards Jim. “Come on. What are you waiting for?”
Jim shucked off his clothes and did a cannonball into the water. “Oooh, it is a bit colder.” He swam over to Sam. “Maybe you can warm me up?”

Walking On Air

Yesterday I received an email from Dawn at Love Romances Café letting me know that Heat Waves had been nominated for Best Contemporary of 2009. Can you say WOW! I was shocked. It only got better. As I was reading the nominees I noticed Spank Me Twice was up for Best Erotic Book of 2009. It floored me to be nominated for two awards.
I’m up against some awesome authors for the Contemporary award, but I swear just being nominated means everything to me. J
The voting begins the 15th. Once I get the information I’ll post it, in case you’ve read Heat Waves and want to vote. LOL

In other news I participated in my first book signing with eleven other authors last night. It was interesting. During the author bio the announcer talked about my nominations. Well! The funniest part was at the end. I was packing up my things when this older couple...I'm talking late sixties . early seventies comes up to me and says, "What was the name of that book? Smack Me Twice, Hit Me Twice?"
I looked at her and asked, "Spank Me Twice?"
"Yes. Yes, that's the one." She turns to her husband. "We have to go home and look that book up!"
I was rolling. It's nice to see they're still interested in sex.
The day kept getting better because when I got home I checked email and there was a contract for Dante's Desire.
Now how am I going to top that? LOL
Happy Tuesday Everyone!

Lots of News to Share

I’m back! Sorry for not posting last week, but frankly the end of 2009 and beginning of 2010 was a whirlwind. I’m still trying to piece together all the things that happened in a ten day span.
BUT, through all the unhappiness there has been some good news in my life that I want to share with all my friends, fans and readers of SSS.
1. My editor at Noble Romance gave me an extension on the January 1st deadline for the Valentine’s Day submission. I’m happy to say that I finally submitted it yesterday. It’s an M/M short called Naughty Cupid.
2. I received my first contract of the New Year from Aspen Mountain Press, along with the edits!!! Wild Lickins is the first M/M I wrote about a year ago. It’s tentatively scheduled for a February 19th release.
3. I also received my first non-fiction assignment for 2010. An article on Car Surfing for a teen magazine I write for. She also hinted that a few of my other ideas might be assigned in the coming weeks.
4. Body Shots received its first review from NOR. Ms. Skyze has written an interesting page-turner that has intelligent, believable characters and a plot that holds your attention from beginning to end. To read the review in full visit this link! http://www.nightowlreviews.com/nightowlromance/reviews/Review.aspx?daoid=5468
So, needless to say I’m keeping busy and thankful for the distractions. I have enough work to get me thru the month of January. Now if only I could do some actual writing! I have a ton of story ideas brewing, but can’t seem to get them on paper. I guess that’s for another day.

Deck the Halls

This time of the year is crazy for me, as it is for most everyone. This year I’m even more bogged down. My daughter and granddaughter showed up on my doorstep on Saturday. They wanted to “get away” from her MIL so she’s home until they can save for an apartment or until she grows sick of me! LOL

Now all my children are back under my roof for the first time in a few years. I’m having a wonderful time bonding with my granddaughter and she’s teaching me what it’s like to have a little one around full time again!

On top of the shopping, baking, wrapping and day job I’m promoting not ONE but TWO new releases this month. Believe me I’m not complaining. I couldn’t be happier. It’s my first release in almost five months.

I’m making the rounds on different blogs and giving away lots of books this month. It is the season for giving, right? :0)

So why not give away a copy of Heat Waves today? Yes, you say? LOL

Okay fine. One lucky commenter will receive a copy of Heat Waves. You can also purchase a copy at www.aspenmountainpress.com along with Mistletoe Studs, One Tasty Night and Talk Dirty to Topaz.

Happy Holidays!

P.S. If you’re looking for a big contest. I’m giving three ebooks and a gift card to either B&N or Borders to one lucky newsletter member this month, so sign up today for your chance to win!

Subscribe: authoramberskyze-subscribe@yahoogroups.com

New Release - Heat Waves

My newest release Heat Waves will be available Friday December 4th from Aspen Mountain Press - www.aspenmountainpress.com

Here's a little taste of what you'll find between the covers!

Blurb:
Ever wonder about the face behind the voice of a radio DJ?
Nina Walters has. She can’t get enough of disc jockey Ty’s sexy baritone. He has her masturbating to his voice daily. When he challenges his listeners to a contest Nina wants the upper hand. Lucky for her Cindy, her best friend works at the radio station.
Ty is offering a dream date, with him, to one lucky winner. He’s almost positive no one will guess the answer correctly. So, when Nina does he’s floored. Being a man of his word, he goes through with the date.
Sparks fly, but secrets linger. Will their heat for one another be enough to ride the waves of deception?

Excerpt:

Nina struggled to keep up with him. She couldn’t imagine why he was ignoring her. She hung up on Cindy with no explanation. She needed to find out what was wrong with Ty. She watched him climb into the front of the limo. When she reached the door she pulled on the lever. Locked. She knocked on the black tinted window.
No response.
She knocked again, this time louder.
Still no response.
“I know you’re in there, Ty. Please come out and tell me what’s wrong,” she pleaded. Why was he ignoring her? What had she done? Besides waiting for him to come out of the bathroom, she thought they were having a good time. What changed his mind?
Jasper opened his door and stepped out. “Ms. Walters, let me get the door for you.” He opened the back door and waited for her to step in.
Crossing her arms she refused. “I’m not getting in until Ty explains to me what the hell is going on.” Her voice grew louder as her frustration mounted.
“Ms. Walters, please.”
She knew she was making Jasper uncomfortable, but she didn’t care. She couldn’t understand what was going on.
“I’m not moving, so either you have Ty get his ass out of the car and talk to me, or you can leave me here.”
Jasper closed the door and went back to the driver’s door, disappearing into the limo, leaving her standing there.
Just fucking great. Was he going to take her seriously and leave her? He wouldn’t would he? She didn’t even know what the hell was going on. This was ridiculous. Was he some kind of weirdo? Did he do this often? They shared an incredible day. What the fuck was going on?
She counted to one hundred and still no one exited the limo, but it didn’t drive away either. Maybe that was a good sign. She paced the length of the limo racking her brain. She couldn’t figure it out, unless.
Oh shit! Had he heard her conversation with Cindy? But she didn’t say enough to have him understand – had she? And besides, she continually looked over her shoulder to see if he was coming. Had he snuck up on her and listened to her private conversation? That would have been rude. But still, she couldn’t wrap her thoughts around what would make his so mad. She didn’t believe she said anything incrementing. If she did and he was pissed Cindy could lose her job. That would be the nightmare of all nightmares.
When she reached two hundred and still no Ty she went back to his side and knocked on the window.

My New Newsletter!

As many of you know, I’m Amber Skyze and I write erotic romance novels for Aspen Mountain Press, Ellora’s Cave Publishing and Noble Romance. I just started a monthly newsletter.

If you enjoy contemporary, BDSM and ménage a trios romance novels, you can find out more about my books in my newsletter.

As a member, you'll have access to the latest news, including excerpts from upcoming books and exclusive member’s only contests. Amber’s Ramblings will be available on the 1st of each month.
Join today a new contest was announced yesterday! While this one was a quick one, November's is sure to be bigger, in celebration of my birthday!
Subscribe: authoramberskyze-subscribe@yahoogroups.com

P.S. This newsletter will only be once a month, so you don't have to worry about your in box being clogged with unnecessary emails. The only other time I'll send out emails is for special announcements that just can't wait or contests.

PLEASE NOTE THAT THIS SITE IS AN ADULT ONLY GROUP.YOU MUST BE 18 YEARS OF AGE TO JOIN.

Motivation Needed

A lot has been going on in my life the last few months and I can't seem to shake out of this rut I've found myself in. The dog is healing nicely from his surgery, after a few return visits to the vet. UGH! It's taken me well over 3 months to finish a book that would normally take me one. I'm frustrated with my lack of motivation.

A writing duo I know asked me to look over their story yesterday. They wanted my opinion if it was worthy of Ellora's Cave standards. They only sent the first three chapters and the last. I was very impressed. I hadn't read their work before. One of the lovely ladies has a book out and I have it in my TBR pile. Reading has fallen by the wayside too.

Reading their story sparked the desire to write. I tend to stay away from reading when I'm writing, but it really charged me - temporarily.

On Sunday I sat down and forced myself to start a new story. Having heard good news from one of my publishers - they are interested in a M/M story I submitted. It's my first ever, but I had so much fun writing it. The contract hasn't arrived yet, so I'll have to make a formal announcement at a later date. The story I started on Sunday is another M/M, called Stealing Home. I only managed 108 words. What's that???

This morning I've been plotting a totally different story. I've got the first few scenes worked out in my mind. Now I have to sit down and write it. I'm a panster by all sense of the word, but it feels good to have some direction here.

So, why haven't I started writing? My to-do list is a mile long. I've let things back up big time. Okay, while that's true, it's an excuse. I have no motivation.

HELP!!!!! What do you do when your muse seems to be on an extended vacation?

Shameless Self Promo Day 2

I know I should be writing a blog about writing, but I'm on a shameless self promotion week. Today I'm sharing a tidbit from Mistletoe Studs. With the holidays just around the corner (ack!) I'm not a winter person, though I live in the northeast, this story will warm you up on a cold winter's night!

Blurb:

Meg Trainor has one wish for Christmas every year: Two men who will fulfill all her fantasies.

Santa's in a giving mood this year.

Brothers and co-owners of Turquoise Toys, Brad and Shane Griffin will give her a Christmas she'll never forget.

Excerpt:

Meg couldn’t believe her eyes. These were not the toys she had imagined. She thought he was talking about children’s toys. These were not intended for children. These were adult toys in every sense of the word. There were floggers, paddles, butt plugs, ball gags, straps with dildos attached and handcuffs—all Turquoise, explaining the name. Meg wasn’t naive about the BDSM world. When she realized her desire to submit she wanted to know the who, what, where and why. She read everything she could about the subject. She knew enough about it to understand.

She’d even bought a few toys to experiment with. Like the ping pong paddle she’d purchased when she was curious to know what it felt like to be spanked. It wasn’t something she did regularly but when she was in the mood for a good orgasm she’d slap her cheeks a few times before using her favorite vibrator. She never had dated a man who was actually part of that world.

Brad was gay so he wouldn’t be offering. What a shame because she could see them having fun together!

Could he be carrying a bagful of goodies? Maybe Santa was going to be extra special to her this year. Please Santa I’ve been a good girl all year long. Please tell me you sent Brad with something extra special for my stocking this year.

Halfway though the job, Meg decided it was time to go back to her stranger. He’d been out there long enough. By now, he knew she was aware of his secret.

Turning she ran smack into his broad chest again. “We really need to stop meeting like this.”

Clearing her throat, she took a step back only to come against the copier. “I was just coming out to see you.”

He stepped closer, closing the small gap between them. “How are you doing?” His voice dripped with desire.

“Fantastic. Your copies are just about done.”

Damn she wished he’d step back. He was much too close. He turned her on.

“Are you sure?” He traced his finger along her cheek.

She gulped, her body overheating.

He bent closer, taking her lips. He kissed her slowly. She melted against him; her arms snaked around his neck. He touched her breast, causing a moan to escape her lips. His bulge brushed against her. He wanted her.

While he kissed her, his fingers unzipped the back of her dress then unsnapped her bra. He pushed the garments down around her waist, exposing her breasts.

His mouth covered her nipple, sucking until it puckered. God his mouth felt good. How long had it been since a man had his mouth on her? Too long. Lisa was right; she needed to get laid, but not by Kenny.

When Brad moved to the other breast she thought for sure she was going to crumble to the floor. Her hands gripped the edges of the copier to steady herself.

“I’m going to f*ck you Meg, right now.

Eight to Date

That's the number of contracts I've signed since December '08. Am I bragging - NO. What I'm doing is telling everyone out there that if you want to be a writer and you work hard it's possible. When I signed my first contract I had two others out to editor's. My goal at that point was to have both contracted. By January's end that happened. I set a new goal - eight contracted stories by the end of the year. At the time I thought it was totally unrealistic, but I like to dream big. I'm a writer after all.
In May I thought about upping that number, but I was slowing down a bit with writing and decided against it. As I just signed the eighth one on Monday I realize it's time to change my goal. I'm now reaching for ten by the years end. Not impossible. But, I don't want to set myself up to fail, this time. Not that I could call myself a failure at this point.
So if writing and publishing is your dream, grab a pen and paper, or open a word document on your computer and start writing. Write every day. Read all you can on the craft. Devour books in your genre, study publisher's guidelines and no matter what you do -don't give up. Is it easy? Not a chance. But it's worth it when you see your book up for sale on a publishers web site. Just remember, Perseverance wins!

Talk Dirty to Topaz - First Review

Sorry I don't have much to write about today. I have a ton of personal things going on. But I want to share my first review for TDTT. Hope you enjoy!

TALK DIRTY TO TOPAZ
AMBER SKYZE
ISBN#: 9781601682307
July 2009
Aspen Mountain Press
www.aspenmountainpress.come
Book$3.00
63 Pages
Contemporary Erotic
Rating: 4 Cups


Teagan Topaz has no faith in love. After catching her fiancé in the arms of another woman and the betrayal of her best friend, she never wants to be vulnerable again. That is until Frank; but she is confused by the crank calls from a man who sounds eerily like him.


Frank Black is determined Teagan will be his. No matter what it takes, he is the one to show Teagan what true love is. Frank has a plan and with the help of someone who cares for Teagan, his plan will be a success. The question remains as to whether Teagan is ready to love again and if she can trust Frank not to break what remains of her heart.


Talk Dirty to Topaz is an original story that is a pleasure to read. Teagan is a realistic portrayal of a betrayed woman; I found I could sympathize with her pain. Frank is a very sweet man who is determined to get his woman. A very relaxing read to fit into a busy life.


DelaneReviewer for Coffee Time Romance & More