Where Did The Month Go?

Wow...January is gone baby gone! What happened there?

I had no idea when I wrote on Dec 28 that I was taking the rest of the year off that I wouldn't be posting my thoughts again for a full month...

So who's been suffering through flu season?
Me. Me. Me.

I have officially been sick since two weeks before Christmas, struggling through the ending of Echo of Redemption to get it turned in by an extended deadline. Really struggled through edits for:
Survival Instinct coming in March from Loose-Id
Unholy Promises coming in February from Lyrical
Heart of Change coming in March from Samhain.

I've also started Cries of Penance Book 5 of the Chronicles of Surrender.

This update catches you up to last weekend...and then things got crazy worse.
Sunday my brother passed away and this week has been...

Hopefully, the full moon (tomorrow) will herald in a time of healing and positive influences. Right now I can't promise I will start posting again daily...but I will endeavor to post before another month passes!

Dark Divas Review Sacred Revelations

Content Warning: Shibari, BDSM, Multiple sex partners

Jae’s Review: I immensely enjoyed this book. Sacred Revelations is, in a word, fantastic. This isn’t a short book at over four hundred pages, but there wasn’t a dull moment from beginning to end. I cannot even describe how nice it was to read a book with such a great plot—well thought-out and masterfully executed—as well as outstanding character development. Often authors sacrifice one of these to the betterment of the other. That is not so of this book by Roxy Harte. As far as I’m concerned, she nailed it with Sacred Revelations.

I had the opportunity to read and review the first book in The Chronicles of Surrender series—Sacred Secrets—a while back and rated it four-and-a-half divas because it was an excellent book. This book tops that—hits it out of the park actually.

The character development is outstanding. The three main characters each have distinct personalities complete with their own unique drives, motivations and desires. Each character brought a unique and valuable perspective to the storyline. Written in first person, multiple perspective format, the chapters are laid out in such a way that each chapter belongs to one particular character. Honestly, I have read other books laid out this way and they have annoyed me to no end; however, Ms. Harte executed this method wonderfully and it is the perfect setup for these characters. I was able to get into the heart and mind of each character, and that was imperative to this story’s greatness.

I was quite impressed that Ms. Harte had the ability to write a main character such as Thomas, who is a sadist, and have us love him, but she accomplished just that. I understood his drives and motivations and was able to “get” this character. Actually, we’ll just call me overall impressed and leave it at that.

Ms. Harte impressed me with Sacred Secrets, but she has made a true and loyal reader out of me with Sacred Revelations. Actually, I just purchased three more titles by Ms. Harte and another copy of Sacred Secrets and Sacred Revelations for a friend. As soon as I finish my new books, I’ll give you a review on those as well.

The third story in The Chronicles of Surrender series, Unholy Promises, is due out in February and, I, for one, am greatly anticipating its release. I am anxious to see what Roxy Harte has up her sleeve for these wonderful characters. If Sacred Revelations is any indication it will be an amazing read.

Warning to readers: I think it needs to be noted that this book contains more intense BDSM content than in a lot of romance books. Be forewarned the main characters are sadists; if that is something that would bother you, this might not be for you. That being said, if you like this genre, even remotely, you will absolutely adore these characters; the emotional entanglements and storyline will, no doubt, satisfy.

Side note: I always like to mention whether I think a story can be read alone as single title if it is part of a series. Here, I’m not sure that’s the best plan. Can the second story be read alone? I’m sure it could hold its own, but you need to meet these characters before going on the journeys they encounter in Sacred Revelations. Your appreciation and enjoyment of this story will be much greater after having read the first one.


Rated 5 Delightful Divas and a Recommended Read by Jae!

Mini-Vacation...

I officially am taking the rest of the year off...no writing, no thinking about characters...no plotting or settings...just a nice, quiet few days with my family...

Planned:

Going to see Avatar in 3-D

Researching dreadlocks...for me...not a book idea.

Returning to my twice a day yoga/meditation practice which has been sorely neglected.

Fixing my diet because after 15 years of 90% veganism, I backslid, and added some meat, which fixed one health issue but added about a dozen others. So after a few days of water and juice fasting and a couple of weeks all-raw, I should be able to get back onto the vegan wagon...

Other than that, I may play a whole bunch of Facebook Apps...get caught up on all the blogs I haven't read...post a few blog entries of my own... and really plan 2010 around life-balance.

The Never Ending Holidays...

I'm cranky, I want the holidays to be over. Trying to figure out a way to get all of the relevant family members together for a single gathering next year. I tried this year but it didn't work, the trick is getting everyone's cooperation...

Oh well.

The standing joke is, "There's always Fiji."
At some point my hubby said, "Next year we're skipping the holidays and just doing Fiji."

So, when we couldn't get everyone to gather together and it looks like more travel is immenent..."There's always Fiji."

When the ham burned..."Fiji."

And so on...

I know at least one daughter would kill me if I left her high and dry on the holidays but warm sandy beaches and a glorious sun is awfully tempting...

A Great Review To Bring in Yule!

First and foremost Happy Winter Solstice and Blessed Yule!
I hope tonight begins many magical family celebretory moments of the season on a high note!

I know mine has been made extra special by a four and a half star review of Prodigal Slave by Vallerianna ofNight Owl Romance qualifying it as a Reviewer Top Pick!

Charlotte Sullivan is the picture perfect Conservative soccer mom and career-minded Paralegal, complete with ex-husband, suburban home and twin daughters; but she wasn't always. A birthday present for "Cassiopeia " forces her to remember a time and person that she's worked hard for twenty years to forget. Master Francois Rene de Hart is determined to have her back, his Cassiopeia, as his slave for the rest of their lives. But time has changed them both and there are other people to think about, Charlotte's daughters for one; but the main stumbling block may by Pierre-Louis, Francois' lover. Can Francois and Pierre-Louis convince Charlotte to love them both or will she leave them again?

This book was a lot of fun. I was really able to identify with Charlotte's character, her insecurities and doubts are something that many women feel as their children grow. This is also a combination of most women's favorite fantasies, having your first love want you back after years apart and having a younger man want you. As a one-two punch it really works. Probably my favorite part was the fact that, although the story was very dramatic, little bits of humor kept it from being overly so. I really loved Charlotte's parents and daughters. Well written, this was a great read.

Read more about Prodigal Slave and read an Excerpt

Summing it up...

Last THursday I cam e home from an editor meeting and climbed into bed, it was 4pm...
With the exception of going to the doctor on Monday (an event I almost remember, hubby drove) I can honestly say I've stayed in bed...

I lost a week.
and remember very little of it...

Today, I crawled out of bed and made it to the couch to answer a few email. I even managed to review a galley of Unholy Promises, which took entirely too long and wore me out...

I can't ever remember being as sick as I've been the last few days. The doctor said he thought it was bacterial, prescribed antibiotics and sent me home. The antibiotics have definitely helped, I'm on an uphill swing.

So, to any and all of you who have been sick, caught the flu, headcolds, strepthroat or any other ailment...goddess bless you...and I sympathize.

I am officially so far behind on my writing, I don't know how I'll catch up but am determined to do so. I've never missed a deadline yet. That said, I won't be blogging, or twittering, or facebooking...well maybe a little facebooking...I am an addict.

I'm unplugging my phone...
If you don't hear from me before the holidays are over...

HAPPY HOLIDAYS...
and a healthy, happy New Year!

JERR reviewed So, You Want A Job...

I received an awesome review from Just Erotic Romance Reviews for So, You Want A Job.

Here's what was in their newsletter, it should be posted to their site soon!

Title: So You Want a Job?
Author: Roxy Harte
Publisher: Loose-Id
Reviewer: L.T. Blue
Rating: 4.5 Stars
Heat Level: H

Morgan James unfortunately became the scapegoat of Wall Street and has recently been evicted from her penthouse. Morgan has no other choice but to find a job and she will do anything to get one, even one that doesn't come close to her previous role of CEO. Donathan Cannon has a personal vendetta against the woman he blames for a foreclosure on a senior citizen complex where his paternal grandmother resides. When Donathan hears of Morgan's fate he has the perfect revenge in mind, competing with others in a reality TV show to be his personal assistant. Donathan begins to realize that his dominant streak is showing when it comes to Morgan, could she be the submissive he didn't know he needed?

So You Want a Job? is a fast paced book that kept me thoroughly entertained. Morgan’s character had so many layers that I enjoyed. Donathan’s character was consistent throughout the story, even while he was fighting an internal battle. There was a spark of chemistry on Donathon's part before he even met Morgan that proved there is a thin line between love and hate. There were numerous attempts to put the spark out before it exploded and I am happy to report the sexual chemistry burned long and bright into the sexual relationship of Donathan and Morgan.

Under all of the sex, BDSM, spanking, and other love play there is a unique story line that connects Donathan and Morgan. Morgan’s discovery of her submissive ways with Donathan is actually very moving. The sex between Morgan and Donathan has so many elements and required a great deal of stamina between spanking, nipple and anal play. The sexual acts between Donathan and Morgan took a different meaning and tone each time they came together and that was a lot. There are many secondary characters yet each one played a big part on keeping things moving.

A warning, there is a secret fantasy turned dubious consent of a 'gang bang' that may offend some readers. Even with some of the humiliation scenes a little over the top, there are also scenes that will pull on your heartstrings. So You Want a Job? is another good story by Ms. Harte.

More Chronicles of Surrender News...

I hope you're keeping up because this week has been a whirlwind of Chronicles of Surrender excitement. Over the weekend I had my first booksigning with Sacred Secrets, Book 1 of the Chronicles of Surrender!


Sacred Revelations (Book 2) released digitally, with the print release announced as March!


I received my cover art for Unholy Promises (Book 3)...

and now today, as I was working on Echo of Redmption (Book 4) I was also able to get a contract extention to include a 5th book! So following Echo will be Cries of Penance!

Who's excited besides me? Cause I'm jumping around throwing confetti like a crazy woman....

From Saturday's Booksigning:)

Saturday, I had my first book signing! I was so excited:) Lots of friends showed up to cheer me on:) Here's some photos...



If you missed thebooksigning but want to get a print copy of Sacred Secrets, you can order through amazon.com

Sacred Revelations Released Today!

The sequel to Sacred Secrets, Sacred Revelations Book 2 of the Chronicles of Surrender, released digitally this morning! You can buy and download it here.

I am very excited because over the weekend I had my first book signing at a Barnes and Nobles in West Chester and lots of friends showed up to lend their support:) I'll be posting photos from the event tomorrow!

If you missed the booksigning but want to get a print copy of Sacred Secrets, you can order through http://www.amazon.com/Sacred-Secrets-Roxy-Harte/dp/1616501065/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&s=books&qid=1260200596&sr=1-1...

Sacred Secrets is also available digitally for those of you who prefer to keep your reading material on disk:)

So, what is Sacred Revelations about? It's the continuing saga of Garrett, Kitten, the reporter Celia Brentwood from book 1, and Thomas.
Quick Blurb:

Can one woman serve two masters?

Celia Brentwood meets Garrett Lawrence at a time of change. Not knowing what to expect from this man who has suddenly become her master, she submits to him and discovers how pleasure and pain combine to create euphoria. Garrett then introduces her to the care of Lord Fyre, a man who sees into her heart and understands her darkness.

Leaving her master to be under the three month tutelage of Lord Fyre proves to be harder than she imagined, but the greater difficulty is returning to Garrett. She’s a different woman than the one who left him. Celia struggles with powerful emotions for each.

Both men have dominated her body. Which man will claim her heart?

Content Warning: Shibari, BDSM, Multiple sex partners

I love this story...a little edgier than Sacred Secrets and definitely more emotional:)

I have a booksigning on Saturday! I'm nervous, excited, and hoping someone I recognize shows up to say hello!

So if you live anywhere near West Chester, Ohio which means from Dayton to Cincinnati...please mark your calendar and come see me!

December 5th from 1pm to 3pm
Barnes and Nobel - The Streets of Westchester
9455 Civic Centre Blvd
West Chester, OH 45069

If you can't see me in person maybe you can at least be with me in spirit:)

And if you haven't bought Sacred Secrets order one today!

Got Cowboy?

Trying To Finish ECHO by Deadline...

This week is officially eyecandy week all week so enjoy!

Don't you just love a man who enjoys reading?

Unholy Promises Cover Revealed

Happy THanksgiving!

I hope everyone has an amazing holiday. I will be seeing my in-laws and I'm very excited. Family...food...ahhh...

I am thankful for my family, my health, my pets...and my publishing houses,
Loose-Id, Lyrical, Samhain, and Liquid Silver Books, for the acceptance letters I received this year:

The Chronicles of Surrender, coming out both digitally and in print at Lyrical.

Voyeur, Edge, and So You Want A Job?which released digitally, and for Painted Lady which was accepted but which won't officially release until February.

Reaper and Prodigal Slave.

Heart of Change which was accepted but won't release until May.

For Liberty and Justice For All...

Today I’m supposed to be posting about my new release, Prodigal Slave, and I’ll get to that, but first I want to draw your attention to a ten year old boy in Arkansas who is refusing to say the Pledge of Allegiance in his classroom because of one sentence: “For Liberty and Justice for all.”

I’m not even certain I knew what that sentence fully meant when I was ten and here there is a kid exercising his write of freedom of speech or for him, refusing to speak, because he feels gays in America do not have liberty or justice in the US. You can read more here.

I’m bringing this article to your attention because the ideal behind the boy’s stance needs more attention than my book release. You know, it’s a funny thing. When I started writing my first book a dozen years ago, I pitched it to an editor…and basically said there’s a gay couple, a bisexual couple, and a transgender…want it? Yeah, I was laughed out of the one on one…but here we are so many years later and gay erotic romance tops the eBook charts month after month as best sellers. I have to think that in our own way erotic romance writers are helping to open more people’s minds to sexual orientation, diversity, and equality, and that soon, very soon, attitudes in America will shift. Gay marriage will be recognized in all fifty states…

In the meantime, I’m gonna keep doing my part by writing really sexy stories that will challenge peoples boundaries, make them question their core beliefs…and hope that Liberty and Justice For All will become a reality.


And now, I can express my excitement about Prodigal Slaves release!
I’m excited that Prodigal Slave is finally seeing publication! This was always a book of the heart. And it’s been collecting dust on my hard drive for almost as long as I’ve been writing. In 1998 my critique group started calling it “The Red Corset” story…

It started with a question: What if?
What if a recently divorced mother of twin girls…a professional/soccer mom…was suddenly confronted with her past when her “Master” summons her home?

I know why I wrote the book…on some subconscious level I was struggling with being a mom, being different (bisexual), being kinky…and how can I be two people…never really showing the truth. Writing the story triggered a lot of emotional response, and made me question whether keeping my sexual identity of from children was a good idea. Lying is never a good idea. I’m not sure if writing the book I became strong enough to be completely honest with my children or whether being completely honest with my children helped me to write this book. I do know I am a better person for this story. My relationship with my children is stronger.

I love this book and it will always have a special place in my heart…I hope you love this book too. Let me know at roxyharte at gmail dot com.

Here’s the blurb:
Recently divorced paralegal extraordinaire and soccer mom, Charlotte Sullivan, has a secret past life that has just returned to haunt her in the form of a red bustier that arrives perfectly gift wrapped in time for her birthday. With it is a summons from her once Master Francois Rene de Hart, “Come to me.”

With her twin teenage daughters in Europe for the summer with her parents, she finds herself with the perfect opportunity to relive her youth with a man she once loved, but can her heart survive the temptation of the man a second time around? Pure lust awaits a mere train ride away but does she dare make the journey she fears may break more than her heart this second time around?

Added surprise awaits when she meets her Master’s lover Pierre-Louis and discovers she can only be truly reunited with her Master if she learns to love the other man.

Read an Excerpt?
And of course you can buy it today:)

Prodigal Slave Released Today!

Read an Excerpt
Buy in E-Book

Recently divorced paralegal extraordinaire and soccer mom, Charlotte Sullivan, has a secret past life that has just returned to haunt her in the form of a red bustier that arrives perfectly gift wrapped in time for her birthday. With it is a summons from her once Master Francois Rene de Hart, “Come to me.”

With her twin teenage daughters in Europe for the summer with her parents, she finds herself with the perfect opportunity to relive her youth with a man she once loved, but can her heart survive the temptation of the man a second time around? Pure lust awaits a mere train ride away but does she dare make the journey she fears may break more than her heart this second time around?

Added surprise awaits when she meets her Master’s lover Pierre-Louis and discovers she can only be truly reunited with her Master if she learns to love the other man.

Let's Talk FemDom in Erotic Romance

I've given myself permission to not write this weekend, after logging 60 hours behind the keyboard last week, not including social networking, I decided I need some time off...

That meant my brain could go crazy again...
It seems when my fingers aren't busy typing the next word, my brain has to take up the slack and writing idea after idea is rolling through my brain...

Here's what I'm thinking about:
D/s with a woman Domme...
This is a problem because Femdom isn't as marketable as submissive girls with powerful alpha males. Why? After years (centuries) of fighting for equality we still have to have the man in the more powerful position in our romance novels? Is this a cross over from real life?

I love to see a powerful woman wielding a whip...
That isn't to say that with the right man I won't be tied up, gagged, flogged...
But I really like to be in control to so writing about women controlling men...or another woman...yeah, I enjoy that.
I have a F/F started ... emphasis on the darker side of bdsm...hopefully come 2010 I'll have time to focus on it...

I also have a stand alone that was originally meant to be part of the Chronicles of Surrender... Morgana's Story... and she is a Domme in every sense of the word.

In the meantime, I'll just keep looking for pretty pics to inspire me:)


But tell me...what's your take on Female Domme's in erotic romance? Love it? Hate it?
Would you be more or less likely to buy an erotic romance with a female domme with a male submissive? How about with a female submissive?

How about real life? Tied up your man to the bedpost lately and forbidden him from orgasm no matter what you do to him?

So, You Want A Job? Gets Reviewed

So, You Want A Job? just scored a "Gotta Read it" review!

Reviewed by Roberta, she said I challenged her boundaries AND made her question what she considered taboo...for me, that makes my night PERFECT! (read the review at the above link)

Because Someone Asked

A friend asked, "So what order should I read your books in?"

Here was my answer:

My absolute favorite, probably because it was my first "baby", is Sacred Secrets:) which offers an insider look at a BDSM lifestyle club...

My second fav is "So, You Want A Job?" about a wall-street diva on the verge of homelessness after the 'crash' and what lengths she'll go to...

I love the menage "Voyeur" which has a diagnosed sadist as one of the three... followed by Edge.

After that its kind of a crap shoot. Of course, I think they are all good lol
So here is an exact list of all available and/or their coming soon dates:) Most links are in the blogs sidebar:)

Series from Lyrical Press:
Chronicles of Surrender are: 1) Sacred Secrets (avail in print)
coming soon: 2) Sacred Revelations 3) Unholy Promise 4) Echo of Redemption
all Chronicles will be avail in print

The rest are digital...
Two-Book from Loose-Id:
1) Voyeur 2) Edge

Another 2-book coming soon from Loose-Id:
1) Painted Lady 2) Soiled Dove

Others are stand alone and can be read at any time:
coming soon are:
Liquid Silver Books: Prodigal Slave (11/17)
Samhain Publishing: Heart of Change (digital 3/10...print 9/10)
Loose-Id: Survival Instinct (2010)