Suspenseful blogging

They say absense makes the heart grow fonder!

2007-02-27T07:01:00.000-08:00

Did you miss me? Right, I didn't think so. Anyway, sorry I've been so quiet on the blog front. Have some personal issues I'm dealing with, not to mention getting a synopsis written for Caddy-Did. I did get back on track yesterday and wrote 3 pages. I am now officially over half done with the book. I know how the rest of the story will progress, just have to write it. Kent has been really good. I'm very proud of him--maybe a tab bit in-love with him as well, but don't tell Cadence that. I seem to fall a little bit for all my men, thought Nick Trent is still the love of my life--besides my husband, of course. I see a lot of Nick in Kent. Both easygoing guys looking for a good time. Then I go and stick them with uptight women. Rubbing hands together with glee. I love conflict. Lots of it.

I wanted to mention a book I'm almost finished with, The Bounty, by Beth Williamson. I had started it a few months ago, but got sidetracked. Picked it up again two days ago and have had a hard time putting it down. Tyler is a hunky Bounty Hunter, and Nicky is his bounty. Too, too, good, Beth. I'll probably finish it today. With this story, I had no problem turning off my internal editor, the writing is wonderful. I loved both characters and was touched by Nicky's love for her twin-brother Logan who was killed. I'd definitely give The Bounty two-thumbs up! And, a couple of snaps for good measure.

I better get to work. I need to write at least 3 pages today. You all have a wonderful Tuesday. Oh, and think all positive thoughts!

Jerri

Sorry, haven't had much to say.

2007-02-13T06:29:00.000-08:00

I'm a writer and I've drawn a blank. Talk about trouble. What do you do when this happens? I've been at a loss for words for about a week now. Okay, it all stems from behind-the-scenes stuff. It's hard to get into writing when everything seems strained in your life. I did get a new editor over the weekend and she seems super nice--that's one good thing.

Right now, Kent is bugging me to death. "Why am I sitting in this car? You know I'm all hot and bothered from Cadence, and need a cold shower. You seem damned content to leave me here in pain."
"Sorry," I tell him, "but I need some motivation, and can't find any.
"Aren't I motivation enough," he asks, his lips curling into a grin. "I'll let you watch me take a shower."
Well, that would be exciting.
"What, that's not enough incentive? How about I promise to give you a show."
See what I have to put up with. The man in a pain--a really thorn in the backside. He's just lucky he's as cute as he is, otherwise I'd have to hit him.
"Come on," he whined. "I want to get into the action. That is what you write, right? Hell, Thorn and Ava got their adventure in the Bayou. Yancy and Mauve got shot at, at the airport. When is it going to be my turn."
I looked at him as if he'd lost his mind. "But you were shot in Mauvelous, remember?"
"True, but I want the focus on me this time. I don't want to be just a bit player. Its my turn to be the hero, to show Cadence why I'm a better man than Yancy."
I shook my head and wondered why I hadn't chosen someone else to be my male character.
As if he'd read my mind, he turns and stalks off. "See if I ever come out of the car now."

He's pissed, but he'll get over it.

Anyway, if you want to help. Give me a list of words to use in my next scene, and if it works, I'll post some of it to my next blog.

Have a nice day...the weather here is nasty and is only supposed to get worse as the day unfolds. Looking forward to it. NOT!

Jerri

JENNIFER and JENNAH, YOU'RE BOTH WINNERS. For helping me, you're going to get your choice of three books.

Agent in Training

http://www.triskelionpublishing.com/Product61143/Agent_in_Training_by_Jerri_A._Drennen.html?CategoryID=2916&Index=1

Saving Grace

http://www.loose-id.com/detail.aspx?ID=264

Fire & Ice

http://www.mybookstoreandmore.com/product_info.php?products_id=260

e-mail me at jdnovelist@hotmail.com and let me know which PDF you'd like. Oh, I'll try to use as many of your words as I can, and post some of the scene. Thank you so much!

Half complete!

2007-02-05T14:25:00.000-08:00

Yep, I'm halfway finished with Caddy-Did. I'm really working hard on getting this book done as quickly as I can. The next book, Paid in Full will be a Blaze type story, and I'm gearing up to write it. Jesse Duncan is my hero, Elizabeth Gilmore the heroine. I think it'll be a blast to work on something completely different than I've done before. Also, I'm going to go back and rework Photographic Memories. It's a very strong romantic suspense. I just need to do some revisions, and finish it up.

Here is the beginning of Photographic Memories.

Detective Trisha Brent stepped over the yellow tape staked out over a marshy field and almost lost her footing in the thick, murky sludge. She grimaced and shook the foul substance from her shoe, only to splatter it on her beige slacks.

“Son of a—”

Why did this always happen to her? She should have worn boots, or a bikini.

Lightning flashed off in the distance, followed by a boom of thunder. The threatening sky had Trisha’s nerves on edge for more than just the obvious reasons—losing evidence. Rain was forecasted for the next eight to twelve hours, so the forensics team would have a small window of opportunity to process the scene before the sky opened up again.

Trish sloshed down the steep incline to the body that lay draped with a gray blanket.

“What do we have?” she asked the detective standing next to the body.

“White female. In her twenties. Extensive bruising around the throat. Cause of death looks to be strangulation. The killer was strong too. He left finger depressions in the skin. Blood was found under her nails, so I bagged her hands.”

“Good work. What does it look like, murdered here or dumped?” Trisha peered around the field, trying to put herself in the mindset of a killer. One thing was certain, the rural, overgrown terrain was perfect for hiding a body.

Detective Warren cleared his throat and shifted his stocky weight, nodding toward the road. “On the way down, I noticed a narrow path where the vegetation was flattened, consistent with something being dragged. It started from the top of the incline. I'd say she was killed somewhere else, then brought here.” He took a weary breath and shook his balding head, glancing at his notes. “A Mr. Winston’s retriever came across the body. The man had released the dog from his leash, and found him barking next to the woman.”
“Anything else?”

“She’s partially nude. From the waist down,” Warren said, then cleared his throat again. “But we'll have to wait for the Medical Examiner to tell us if she was raped or not. We found no visible signs of semen on her clothes or body, but the rain from earlier could have washed it away. He’s en route now. He'll be able to better determine how long she's been dead. If I had to hazard a guess, though, I'd say less than twenty-four hours.”

The information about possible rape brought a realm of unsettling memories back to Trisha, and sent a cold chill skittering down her backbone.

She studied the surrounding area again, swallowing back the bitter taste of acid that had worked its way up her throat. Eight years suddenly evaporated, and with it came a similar place, an uncanny dank odor. The only thing missing, the strong, copper smell of blood. Hers.

She shivered at the memory. Push the past away, Trish. All you need is to show weakness around the men you work with.

“Detective Brent,” an officer called from above the embankment. “We got a purse up here.”

Maybe luck would be on their side in this case. “Great. Bring it down.” Could the bag belong to the victim? Trisha sure as hell hoped so.

Being with the Special Victims Unit was not an easy job, most of the time she dealt with dead bodies, not living, breathing people in which happy ending could be found. But then, fairy tales were for those with rose-colored glasses.
She hadn’t donned a pair in years.

Her cases were horrific and sad in so many ways. Her unit, responsible for informing loved ones that their sons, daughters, wife’s, mothers were dead, difficult on a good day, downright heart-wrenching when the victims were young and had their whole lives ahead of them.

“Detective?” The approaching officer held out a brown handbag, the smell of wet leather mingling with the musty, stale air.

Trisha pulled a pair of latex gloves from her jacket pocket and snapped them on, then took the purse. Viable prints could be anywhere. With care, she opened the flap, finding a matching wallet inside. She pulled the clutch out and flipped it open. The woman's New Mexico driver's license fit snugly inside a plastic holder.

Trisha flashed Detective Warren the picture. “Is this our victim?”

He glanced at the photo. “Yeah, that's her.”

Dupont, Elizabeth Jo. 240 Weldon Hills. Birth date, 3-27-81.

That would make her twenty-five, not much more than a child in Trisha’s book.
Ten years had passed since she’d been that age.

In the last decade, Trisha had witnessed things most people would be sickened by, but somehow, she’d gotten used to seeing the worst that society had to offer. Any more, it was just another day, another dead body.

Trisha sighed and forced her mind back to the job at hand.

Vital Statistics: Hair: Blonde. Eyes: Blue. Height: 5' 8'' Weight: 125.

She closed the wallet, placed it back into the purse and rifled inside again, coming across a Santa Fe Inn room key.

What a dive. By reputation alone, Trisha knew the motel was one of the worst in the city. They had hourly rates. Perfect for hookers and their clientele to take care of business.

Trisha frown. Already, some facts in this case didn’t fit. According to the woman’s license she lived a few miles from where her body now lay. So why would she have a motel key in her purse? From across town? The whole thing made no sense, unless the woman was a prostitute, herself, and had been servicing a John at the motel. Boy, if that were the case, they’d have to interrogate half the male population of Santa Fe.

What mades a hero a hero?

2007-01-31T03:05:00.000-08:00

I've really been thinking about this the last 3 or 4 days. See, I was told that my hero Kent wasn't hero material in chapter one. This bothered me enough to stop my writing. Does he have to show hero qualities in the first chapter? Does he have to show them by chapter 6. What would be the challenge in writing a story where the characters are perfect from the beginning? Eeks! Where is the conflict? Where is the character growth? Here's the thing--there is no such thing as a perfect man--please. If there were, he'd be as boring as the day is long. Beside, all my favorite characters on TV are far from heroic. "House" Talk about a man who is far from heroic, yet he does heroic things--he saves lives. I've been thinking about this long and hard. All the really memorable characters I can think of haven't been heroic, yet manage to endear themself to people anyway. Why is that, do you think? I know I'm doing the right thing with Kent. Now, I just have to convince my subconscious of that, and get back on the horse, prove that he will be a hero in the end--at least to me and Cadence.

What do you think? What constitutes a hero in your mind? Does he have to be loveable from beginning to end? Think about the characters on TV that you've loved. Were they perfect from the start or did they need character building, need a woman to soften up the edges for them? What about Spike and Angel off of Buffy? Were they heroic? Not from the beginning, but I fell in love with Spike anyway. I guess I just love bad boys, and prefer to write them as well. Sue me.

Jerri

I'm still writing!

2007-01-27T05:31:00.000-08:00

Unbelievable, isn't it? I've written over 7,000 words since I started. Only 18,000 to go in Caddy-Did. I plan to have this book done by the end of Febuary, maybe even sooner.

You know, I've been really insecure lately about my writing, but I've decided to stop being that way. It's stupid. I've been working hard on my craft for seven years now. I'm worthy and it's time to think positive. Since I've been published, I've gotten a lot of great reviews. The harsh ones for awhile outweighed the good, but no more. Even in one of the not so stellar reviews, the gal said I had great character. Yep. I can write 3 dimensional characters like no one elses business, ones you'd love to know yourself. I don't write overly sexy stories, just two people who fall in love, and then make love. I think you have to have some sort of emotional connection between your characters before sex is introduced. That to me is romance. How do you feel? Need more than just sex?

Have a wonderful day. I'm off to work. Yancy and Mauve are getting married today! Kent and Cadence are invited, and going together. Can you see trouble? I can.

Jerri

I'm on a roll!

2007-01-19T05:00:00.000-08:00

Since last wednesday I've written over 5,000 words. To some, that might now sound like a lot, but for me, it's a miracle. I love my characters. They remind me a bit of Nick and Shiloh of Agent in Training. If I keep this pace, I'll be done with Caddy-Did in a little over a month. Then off to work on my steamy romance.

Teaser from Caddy-Did.

"Because, you stuck me with that dominating blonde for the next month. I had to spend my last night of freedom with someone who wouldn’t make me feel as if I was chained to something, being whipped into submission."
David’s eyes widened, and indicated to something over Kent’s shoulder.
The gesture itself told Kent someone was behind him, and had heard everything. He turned.
In the doorway, her cheeks flushed a rosy color, stood Cadence Fleming.
Talk about sticking your foot in it. Why did she have to hear what he said? Now things would be worse than before, and, before was bad.
"Cadence." David jumped up to meet her at the door. "I’m glad you’re here. We need to go over what you’ll be doing for the next month."
Kent watched her from the corner of his eye, her if-looks-could-kill glare toward him not going unnoticed. She disliked him, and that wasn’t going to make training her easy—not one bit.
David led her to the table. "Kent will be teaching you everything he knows in the next four-weeks. I'm positive with him showing you the ropes, you’ll be ready for anything that’s thrown at you."
She looked squarely at Kent, her turquoise eyes darkening. "Does that include verbal bashing?"

Anyway, I'm off to write. Have a fantastic day.

Jerri

So far so good!

2007-01-14T07:15:00.000-08:00

So, I started the 500 word a day challenge and I've done really well. I actually went over 500 every day and am happy to be writing on a regular basis again. I've finished the first chapter of Caddy-Did and almost the second. I totally love Kent--he is so funny. I love writing a character that doesn't have angst. None whatsoever. He just lives life to the fullest--without a care in the world--so opposite of myself. All I do is worry. I'm working on this issue--trying to live one day at a time--it may take some work to get there. LOL

Nothing yet on Mauvelous, another thing that's been on my mind. I know my editor is very busy so I just have to be patient.

Spent yesterday at the In-Laws again--finished a room completely. Trying to get things organized for an Estate sale. It's a lot of work. Once we have that done, the house can go on the market. I just want to be finished. I pray we'll be done before April, when I have to promote my first print book, Fire & Ice. !

I'm in a positive place right now and I plan to stay there--yes, I will be a BEST-SELLING AUTHOR. I know it!

Have a fantastic day!

Jerri

When did writing become a chore?

2007-01-10T06:50:00.000-08:00

That's how I'm feeling right now. I hope to shake it. I'm struggling with every word. I know I just have to keep writing, no matter what it takes. It's very hard to get in the groove once you haven't written on a daily basis for awhile. I think I'll start off small. 500 words a day for a week, then 750 and so on. I want to finish Caddy-Did in two months. I took way too long to write Mauvelous, and I don't want to repeat that with this book.

I sent M off to my editor yesterday--I hope she likes it. I'm working on not second-guessing myself, like when I first started writing. I seriously had so much more fun writing when I didn't do that--when I thought I was God's gift to the literary world. Boy, was that a long time ago. But heck if it didn't feel good to think that way. And, who says I can't feel that way again? I truly believe to make it in this business, you have to think you're good, or the rejections, the bad reviews will bring you to a screeching halt. I have too many stories invading my head to let that happen. I want all my characters to come to life--to get the chance to fall in love, between the gunfire and running for their lives. To write The End to another love story is a high like no other and I have so many more to share with the world. So, I'm off to finish chapter 1 of Caddy-Did. You all have a wonderful day.

Jerri

Mauvelous is Finished!

2007-01-07T02:57:00.000-08:00

What a relief to be done with that book. I thought I'd never write The End! Next is Caddy-Did, and I'm also toying with an idea for Samhain's Dragon anthology. Titled, Toby's Dragon, a contemporary novella, based on a lost toy. Not sure if I should even try to write 20,000 plus words when I really need to focus on finishing my Aztec series. Can I write 2 books simultaneously? That's a very good question...not sure I can. Any suggestions?

On the home front, went down to the In-laws yesterday again to clean. It's moving very slow--years of clutter just doesn't disappear. I'll be very happy when I'm finished and the house is sold.

I'm can't wait until April 17th, when Fire & Ice comes out in print. For one thing, it'll be Spring, and I'll be happy again. Winter puts me into a funk, and I want to be upbeat to plan book signings. I'm so looking foward to that.

Anyway, I started reading, Haunted Hearts, by Linn Random. I'll give a review after I finish it.

Have a wonderful Sunday!

Jerri

Marty tagged me!

2007-01-02T06:28:00.000-08:00

1. Favorite books-I have to say, "Pictures of You" by Shelby Reed. Actually, it was a short story, but I thought about it long after I'd finished it. Shelby is an amazing writing. You always connect with her character in an emotional way.

2. Favorite movie--Inside Man...Clive Owen..need I say more. Okay, the plot is fantastic. I want to see Clive's new movie..it looks very intriguing.

3. Favorite news--that Samhain wanted another one of my books.

4. Favorite show--at the moment, Scrubs. I just discovered this show a few months ago, and oh my gawd, it's funny. JT is an odd character, and I love oddballs. Also, I love CSI--Miami--marathon yesterday--I was in heaven.

5. Favorite song--Fergelicous--by Fergie. Yeah, I know, I can't help it, it's a catchy turn.

On a writers note, 2 pages left to finish Mauvelous. I'd have had it finished by now but the kids are driving me crazy. They go back to school tomorrow.

To end my post, last year was hell for me for so many different reasons, but I'm putting it behind me and looking to the new year with a positive attitude. I want to say God bless to those who lost loved ones in 2006. You'll all be in my prayers.

Here's to 2007, may it bring to you what you put into it!

Jerri

News, and more!

2006-12-26T06:39:00.000-08:00

Fire & Ice's print release has been pushed back until April 17. I have no problem with this. It will give me time to finish Caddy-Did before I have to promote again.

I hope everyone had a good Christmas. Ours was very nice--and quiet. With no In-Laws any longer, it was just hubby and the kids, oh, and my daughters boyfriend, who came later in the day.

The 18-year-old now has a job...and she can start paying for her own stuff. : - ) I have to run her to work, but at least she's going to have money.

I have exactly 1 scene to write in Mauvelous and then I'm finished with the second book in my Aztec Series. I'm going to go gunho into Caddy-Did, and finish it in two months. Then I can work on the steamy romance Paid in Full, I have next up on my to-write agenda. The last book for 2007 will be a single title, Untouched, and will probably take me until the end of the year to finish. That is my writing goal for 2007 and I intend to meet it. If I don't, you can all flog me.

So, what are your goals for 2007, writing, or otherwise?

Jerri

P.S. Jump over to Samhain and check out the new releases.

I wrote today!

2006-12-18T11:25:00.000-08:00

Yes, it's a miracle. I actually wrote 3 pages today--have about 7 or 8 to finish Mauvelous. I know, I should have been done long ago but I haven't been well. Today is the best I've felt in days. I believe the ulcer is back and making me suffer bigtime. Hopefully it will just keep getting better from this day on. I have so much I want to do--to write, I just have to get the motivation to do it.

Today was the launch to the Samhain Blog. Jump over and check it out.
http://samhainpublishing.com/blog/

Question? If you could have anything you wanted for Christmas, what would it be?

Jerri

Caddy-Did--Kent Jamison

2006-12-11T05:34:00.000-08:00

Ryan Reynolds is the guy I'm using at Kent's image. He is so adorable, and what a bod...loved him in Blade 3.

Caddy-Did will be more humorous then the first two books in my Aztec Series--hopefully it'll work.

Right after I finish this book, I've got one waiting in the wings. Working title, Paid in Full, a hotter story. Then I have a single title I'm going to work on. I just need to get to feeling better so that I can tackle them all. Good health is precious, don't take it for granted.

Enough for now. You all have a great day!

Jerri

Join RWW at Novelspotters!

2006-12-06T10:22:00.000-08:00

I'd love for you all to come and join me and my fellow critique partner, Marty Kindall, Betty Womack, Pam Champange and Robyn Wren, possibly a few others at Novelspotters. This Saturday starting at 10. You'll get a glimpse of how we interact and see how goofy we can get when we're together. I love and respect each and everyone of these ladies. We'll be giving away prizes. So come by and have fun with us.

I wanted to thank Lena for her wonderful review of Fire & Ice at Fallen Angel.

Fire & Ice

Knox Manning has had a hard couple of weeks lately all starting when a house burned down bringing him to Melanie Sharp. She is a woman who is opposite from the type he normally dates not only in looks but on the inside as well. She is a smart and talented artist working in sculptures and painting, something that he’s never been interested in before. A secret admirer wanting to get closer to you more than ever is not your typical arsonist. He’s putting Melanie’s life in danger as well as her reputation in the art world. Knox has to deal with Melanie and a family crisis in his life along with some big changes that are shocking him. He always thought that he would never love a woman, yet Melanie is making him wish for the impossible: for the love of a woman to be with him forever.

Melanie Sharpe is a woman whose life is being played because of a stupid man that won’t leave her alone. She never dated married men yet for some reason, this imbecile thinks she belongs to him. There’s only one man she wants but doesn’t know why. Knox Manning is not the type she typically goes for. He’s a firefighter and she’s an artist, making their hobbies and interests so far apart. Melanie knows she doesn’t have the hourglass figure but with Knox, she feels beautiful and sexy for the first time. Still, something is stopping her from loving him. She needs to know that he believes her that she didn’t set the house on fire. Can Knox believe that she’s telling the truth before she ends up dead from the cheating husband?

Knox and Melanie are so right for one another, yet they are blind to see that they have strong feelings for one another. I loved Knox because even though he has fallen in love for the first time, he has to work hard to make Melanie see that he’s sincere. In Fire & Ice, Jerri Drennen has all the things that make this a hot and definite keep-worthy romance. It’s got action, sex and romance, which makes me wish for my own firefighter. I really hope there’s a story for Melanie’s friend Kay. Fire & Ice is filled with lots of romance and heat that make Knox and Melanie burn yet with a sizzle that will make you want more. Awesome job Jerri Drennen. Reviewed by: Lena C.

Jerri

In Loving Memory

2006-12-02T02:55:00.000-08:00

This is my tribute to the most wonderful Grandmother I could have ever asked for. I have so many wonderful memories of her growing up. We spend every Christmas Day with her and Grandpa. She was a special woman, one I didn't get to spend much of my adult life with because of distance, but I will still miss her so much.

She is with my grandfather now in heaven.

Jerri

Christmas Trees

2006-11-28T08:16:00.000-08:00

My cp, Marty, posted a picture of her Christmas Tree and I thought, maybe we could start a blog frensy posting our Christmas Trees. Anyone game? This is mine, sorry it's so dark. This is about as Christmasy as I get. I'm a scrooge...see, I can admit that.

As far as finishing Mauvelous, nope, not yet. I have a chapter and a half to go. I've been dealing will the in-law's house, the kids and feeling under the weather yet again. Does being in your forties mean your body has to fall apart. Grrrr.....

Anyway, I'd love to see everyone's tree. Let me know if you've posted a pic of yours.

Jerri

P.S. I'll be drawing a winner in the Fire & Ice perfume contest later on Thursday. Good luck to everyone. WINNER...CATHY. caity_mack@yahoo.com

So bad a blogging lately!

2006-11-15T02:35:00.000-08:00

I just haven't had time. Me and two of my cp's are on a finish our books by Thanksgiving jag. Then I got my Galley's for Fire & Ice. Sending them back this morning. You have no idea how excited I am to have a book coming out in print--so many people want to buy it too. I'm so tickled. My biggest joy will be to hold it in my hand, see my name on it, and realize I'd finally reached my goal. It'll be almost as good as holding my babies in my arms--almost.

So, finished the first love scene in Mauvelous, totally different then any of my others...let's hope it works for my cp's. : - 0

I'll be pretty scarce from blogging until I finish this book, need to get it done, polished and off to my editor soon.

Oh, I've only got two entries in my Fire & Ice contest so far. I'm going to do an hour long chat at Novelspotters the 21st--may give away the answer to the question there. The prize is a bottle of Fire & Ice perfume--and let me tell you, the stuff smells great.

Talk to you all later!

Jerri

Inventing the Abbotts is sold!

2006-11-07T08:09:00.000-08:00

My editor, Jewell, sent me the contract yesterday. I'm thrilled. It's the first book in my Aztec Security Series. I have to hurry and finish Mauvelous so that I can get started on Caddy-Did.

Also, yesterday I got my first review for Fire & Ice. I'll post a link when it's up on the Romance Junkies site. I got 4 1/2 Ribbons.

All seems a little better today--hope things are good with you.

Remember, I have a contest running until Nov 30. If you know who started the fire that Melanie was accused of--e-mail me at jerridrennen2001@yahoo.com Firebug in the subject line, with the answer to the question. You can win a bottle of Fire & Ice perfume.

Bye for now!

Jerri

"A Kiss on the Wind"

2006-11-06T07:25:00.000-08:00

My critique partner, Marty Kendall has a new short story out at Wild Rose..."A Kiss on the Wind"

She is an amazing writer--so go and buy her book.

I'm going to run. Have a good day!

Jerri

Fire & Ice

2006-10-27T05:39:00.000-07:00

Would you like a chance to win a bottle of Revlon's Fire & Ice cologne? Have you read Fire & Ice? Do you know who set the fire Melanie is accused of? If so, e-mail me at jerridrennen2001@yahoo.com with Contest--Firebug in the subject line. I'll choose a winner out of all th correct answers Nov 30th.

Also, if you aren't doing any next Friday, please come by the coffeetime loop and hang with me. I'll be giving away a download of Fire & Ice and maybe one of my earlier releases. I'd really love to see you all there.

I wanted to thank everyone for their words of sympathy--it was very much appreciated.

As for writing, I managed a few more pages. Yancy is very happy about that--he was getting tired of standing around with nothing to do. I hope to finish Mauvelous in a few weeks.

Anyway, you all have a good day.

Jerri

Bad weekend!

2006-10-24T04:53:00.000-07:00

I lost my Mother-in-Law Friday to a Massive Heart attrack. The weekend and yesterday was hard to get through, but we managed to do it.

On the writing front, I'll be doing a hour long chat at Novelspotters today from 9 to 10, if you're not doing anything. I'll give away a Pdf download of Fire & Ice.

Also, I'm going to be giving away a bottle of Fire & Ice perfume next month, on the 30th. To win, e-mail me at jerridrennen2001@yahoo.com and tell me who set the fire that Melanie was accused of. I'll draw a winner from the names with the correct answer.

http://www.mybookstoreandmore.com/product_info.php?products_id=260

Jerri

Sorry I haven't posted in a while.

2006-10-19T08:51:00.000-07:00

I've had a sick child and have been a tad under the weather myself. That's what you get for sending your kids to school.

No new writing lately. Can't...not and try and promote the new book. I wish I could afford to pay someone to do that for me. I'm shy and it's very difficult for me to put myself out there on the loops, asking everyone to buy my books. I mean, why should you...right? There are so many authors, so many books, why choose mine. See, I told you I was bad at this. I do love Knox and Melanie's love story--and that's what it is, a true love story. They both feel something for each other before jumping into bed. It's hot, but not considered erotica. That's seems to be what sells these day--who cares if you can write--just give me sex, sex and more sex and that's all that you need. But not for me. I need feelings, need to want them to be together, otherwise why care. Am I wrong? Am I saying that all erotic books don't have that--no, not all of them--but a large portion think that sex is all that's needed. Unfortunately the tends are moving toward this even in the print lines. I just hope it's a trend that passes. Of course I want love scenes in the books I read, but I want emotion with them, a connection that goes beyond a physical need. Does that make sense? I think it's okay for it to start out as a physical attraction, but it does have to evolve into an emotion one sometime. When, you ask? Well, that's a hard call. I think it's different for every couple. I'm on chapter 6 in "Mauvelous" and Mauve and Yancy are not at the emotional stage yet--but it's coming. She is going to find out why he's so distant and aloof soon--realize why he's afraid of feeling anything. That in turn will make her look at him differently. Yancy is a man--it takes them longer to look beyond the physical thing--but he'll get there, and when he does, he'll have to admit he's loved her all a long. This is why I love writing romance--getting to those feelings with my characters--almost experiencing it with them.

Question for all you writers out there--why do you write? What does it do for you?

Jerri

Fire & Ice excerpt

2006-10-13T11:44:00.000-07:00

Excerpt--Fire & Ice

“Who is he?” Kay asked again, practically drooling on the painting Melanie still didn’t know why she had started. Though needing a dartboard came to mind.
“Knox Manning. He’s a fire investigator. He thinks I set Dean‘s house ablaze.”
Kay’s jaw dropped. “What? Why would he think that?”
Melanie shrugged. “According to Mr. Manning, one of my fliers was found in the house.”
“Does he know about the fire twelve years ago? Or the fact that you were dating Dean?”
Melanie swallowed hard. “No! At least I hope he doesn’t. I don’t want to talk about this anymore. Let's drop it!”
“Okay, okay. Don’t get your panties in a wad. He is gorgeous though. I’d definitely do him.”
Melanie just shook her head. Kay would do anyone with the right plumbing.
“I know what you’re thinking.” Kay waggled a finger in warning. “So I like sex. Does that make me bad? I can’t go for years without it. Greg Spears was the last man you slept with. That was what—two years ago? You know what they say, don’t you?”
Melanie knew whatever her friend said, it’d be of a sexual nature. The woman was a man in a skirt. “No, what’s that?”
Kay grinned. “Use it or lose it. You’d need a map by now to find yours.”
“Hah, funny.”
“Hey, you never did answer my first question.”
Melanie had always been amazed at how fast her friend’s mind changed gears. “No, I don’t have his number,” Melanie said, wiping paint from her hands onto a rag she picked up.
“I didn’t ask that, though I should have. I asked if you’d eaten. You look peaked.”
Why shouldn’t she look pale? She’d practically been accused of arson. That would make anyone a little sick. “No, though food does sound good. Let me get cleaned up and we’ll go out for lunch.”
“Sounds great. I’ll just wait here and stare at Mr. Fireman. Hey, Mel, you think he has a big hose?”
Melanie rolled her eyes and left the room without answering.
What size hose Knox Manning had was the farthest thing from her mind. He wasn’t getting within a hundred feet of her hydrant anyway.

Available now--Fire & Ice

2006-10-10T11:32:00.000-07:00

Just minutes ago, Fire & Ice went on sale. Man do I feel nervous. This is the scary part of publishing a book--release day. To buy, click on cover.

He’s a hunky fire investigator, she creates ice sculptures—when these two get together things can't help but sizzle.

Blurb:
Fire investigation is Knox Manning’s passion, that is, until he meets the suspect in his latest arson case. The moment he locks eyes with Melanie Sharp's powder blue gaze, his knees buckle, a foreign reaction to the six-foot-two fireman. Thing is, the woman is trouble with a capital “T”. Messing with her could cost him his job and his sanity. That’s what his mind says anyway, too bad his body isn’t listening.

Melanie’s a talent…an up-and-comer in the cultured art world…and a woman with a less than stellar past. When one of her promotional flier’s is found at the scene of a burned out house, she suddenly finds herself the focus of an arson investigation. One led by a dark-haired man who scares her as much as he thrills her. The house blaze had been set, but not by Melanie. She’s determined to prove that to Knox, who has suddenly become the catalyst of her secret, sexual fantasies, igniting an inferno so intense, she's afraid of sustaining third-degree burns.

Jerri

Tickled beyond words.

2006-10-06T03:05:00.000-07:00

Yesterday I was procrastinating--I do it all the time--anyway, I found a brand new review for my romantic suspense "Saving Grace" from Fallen Angel Reviews. Michelle, smooches to you.

Saving Grace

Cord Rawlings is a mess. He’s well on his way to being drunk again and he’s mourning his friend, Vince. It’s Cord’s fault that Vince is dead, and the guilt is eating him alive. His career is over; he resigned because he couldn’t deal with it. And to top it all off, he’s alone.

Grace Diaglo lost her husband six months ago in the line of duty and she’s not doing very well at trying to get on with her life. She’s depressed, she’s losing weight, and she’s volunteering like a maniac. When danger from an unknown source threatens her, she’s thrown together with Cord. To make matters worse, she’s feeling an attraction to him that makes her feel alive for the first time since her husband’s death. What happens when she finds out that her deceased husband wasn’t quite the saint she thought he was? Can Cord protect her?

The dance between Cord and Grace only intensifies as Saving Grace progresses, and Jerri A. Drennen shows a gift for drawing readers in as this twisting plot unfolds. I was captivated. With rapid-fire dialogue, finely-drawn characters, and a dark side that will intrigue you, Saving Grace beckons and delivers with spine-tingling intensity. Cord’s painful past and emotional baggage are worked into this tale in a clever way, and he shines as the classic dark, tortured hero. Grace’s healing process is heartening to see, and she further endears herself to readers by the unveiling of her insecurities. Their relationship is well-crafted and believable. I loved Grace’s sister Emily and the humor she brought to the story. Secrets and danger blend together in a satisfying mix in Jerri A. Drennen’s Saving Grace. Five Angels!

Reviewed by: Michelle

http://www.loose-id.net/detail.aspx?ID=264

I just beamed when I read it. I don't know if good reviews help sell books or not, but they certainly help to boost an authors confidence.

Anyway, I finally finished chapter 5 in Mauvelous. With a great hook I might add. Today, I'm off to have some fun. Haven't had much of late--and need to do it before Tuesday when "Fire & Ice" comes out and I have to start promoting.

I want to to give a shout-out to Marty, who is feeling under the weather--Feel better soon, girl.

Off to do something--even if it's wrong.

Jerri

I'm getting nervous!

2006-10-03T06:41:00.000-07:00

Fire & Ice is coming out next Tuesday and I'm getting that sick feeling in my stomach again. I don't know what to expect. This is my first contemporary novel. What if they don't like it? What if they don't get my humor? I worked so hard on this book and I pray it will be well-received. The promo stuff unnerves me because I don't think I'm very good at it--promoting myself and my books. I need to be more confident in myself as an author.

I'm still working on Mauvelous. Almost half done now. I love these two. Mauve is afraid of how she feels about Yancy--a man who could be a traitor. That's definite conflict. Yancy hates that he's attracted to Mauve, who thinks he betrayed his company. So there is plenty of conflict to be had, yet they are draw to each other anyway. I don't know what it is, but I love my couples to be at each others throats until they realize their love for one another. Painful, yes...but I think it makes for a great book.

Anyway, I'm off to write. You all have a wonderful day.

I've been so cranky!

2006-09-29T08:34:00.000-07:00

My acid reflux has been really bad the last week. I'd hope to never experience it again. No such luck, though. I hate taking pills, so I'm trying home remedies. Apple cider vinagar anyone? Yummy! Not..it does work, though. I'm afraid I may have an ulcer again, thanks to my lovely teenage daughter.

Still no line edits. Hope that doesn't mean anything. : - (

I did write a couple more pages in Mauvelous, hope to finish chapter 5 by this weekend. Still enjoying Yancy and Mauve. I think I need to add a little action, maybe putting one of them under fire. : - 0 Yeah, I'm bad. That's why I write romance suspense.

Anyway, its getting closer to release date for Fire & Ice, and I'm nervous. I get so scatterbrained when a book comes out--I can't think straight. Hopefully this time will be better.

You all have a wonderful day.

Jerri

I loved everyone's story

2006-09-28T06:59:00.000-07:00

It was great to hear how other people discovered their love of writing. Thank you so much for sharing. I enjoyed it so much.

I did write 2 pages in "Mauvelous" yesterday and hope to get a few more done today. Yancy and Mauve are at each others throats--and I love it. Both have such passion for their job, and totally nasty mouths. Last time I had a couple like this, it turned out to be the book of my heart, "Agent in Training." Nick and Shiloh were so fun to write. Yancy and Mauve are proving to be entertaining as well.

Do you have a favorite story you've written? Or read? Tell me about it.

Jerri

Okay, I'll say it, I'm opinionated!

2006-09-26T02:46:00.000-07:00

And it gets me into hot water a lot. I got the trait from my father, who died of Alzheimers in 2003. Yes, I think I'm right most of the time--and frankly, I am. LOL

I've always prided myself on being open-minded--I don't live in a box, and I truly think that's how we're are supposed to be. That's why I have an imagination--can spin a tale and hopefully entertain.

There is nothing more gratifying to me than to write a story that people enjoy. I believe to do that, you have to expand your mind, look outside the tiny box and explore. I thank my mother for that--and reading books.

Since I was old enough to read, I did so with a passion. I was reading books in grade school that was beyond what one my age should. F. Scott Fitzgerald was one of my favorites in 4th grade. I read every book of his in our schools library. Yet it took me years and years to realize I was a writer, have only been doing it for 6 years.

I wasn't one that started writing when I was young, though I used to love to tell stories. I was raised on a farm in Minnesota, hard winters, wonderful summers. When I was in my teens, my father bought us these all- terrain motorcycles and my sweetheart of a sister, Cindy, and I would ride around for hours telling stories. Those were wonderful times. I believe I had the calling back then, I just didn't grasp it. Writing has changed my life. Made me look at myself differently. When I finish a book, I've accomplished so much. I realize I can follow through with something, from beginning to end. I know that people who don't write won't understand why it's such a high, but other writers will and that's enough for me.

So, yes, I'm opinionated, but I'm glad I am. Heck, I'm glad I am who I am, no matter what anyone says.

Now, I'm going to ask a question. When did you know you wanted to be a writer? I want to hear all about it. Spin the tale for me.

Love ya,

Jerri

Time to get back to wtiting.

2006-09-25T03:16:00.000-07:00

So, the weekend of birthday parties and dances are over--time for me to get back to work. I find that any time I don't write for days, its harder to get back at it. I've gone over what I have 2 or 3 times now and nothing. I know where I want to go, just can't get motivated to do it. Maybe I can talk RWW into a challenge or something, though the last few we've had, I didn't get mine done, but I critiqued them all. Maybe I just need to force myself to write, even if it's crap. I need to listen, let Yancy tell me what he wants to do. I want to get into the intrigue part more, start to unravel what Grayson is planning. Oh boy, a thought just popped into my head...and I'm off to run with it. God how I love writing suspense.

You all have a fabulous day!

Jerri

Second round--done!

2006-09-22T02:19:00.000-07:00

That's right...I got my second round of edits finished. All that's left for "Fire & Ice" is the line edits and a final read-through and off it goes. (inserting big smiley face)

Before I got the edits, I was working on "Mauvelous," going over what I had so far. I had completely forgotten where I was in the book. It feels like I hadn't written anything new in ages. I need to buckle down after my line edits and finish this book.

It's Homecoming today in DeSoto...and my daughter will be marching in the parade. They have the dance tomorrow night and then her birthday party is Sunday. It's going to be a busy weekend. I'm tired just thinking about it.

Anyway, I had to post a picture of Clive since I'm back to working on Yancy's book. I love the one above--its on my desktop.

Have a wonderful Friday.

Jerri

I'm back!

2006-09-19T07:25:00.000-07:00

I sent "Fire & Ice" back to my editor yesterday. I'm really happy with the book. I worked very hard, and learned a lot in the process. There is such a thing as too many em-dashes. (Hanging head) Anyway, I'm back and happy to be. Did you all miss me? I was surprised how easy it was to stay off the internet. I worked on the book, knew I couldn't mess around.

I've been going through "Inventing the Abbotts", losing over half the em-dashes. I was happy to see that I hadn't used could, then or but that much so far...I guess that's a sign that I'm growing as a writer.

Tell me what you all have been doing while I was gone? Any news? I feel as if I've been out of the loop a bit.

On the home front, my oldest daughter has a birthday on Saturday, she's going to be 18. I can hardly believe it. Seems like just yesterday, she was my little girl. Gosh, time flies. She'll be graduating this year.

Anyway, you all have a great day!

Jerri

I'm in edits!

2006-09-17T02:36:00.000-07:00

So, until I'm finished, you won't be seeing me, or any Clive pictures. See you on the other side.

Jerri

Not much writing going on.

2006-09-10T02:40:00.000-07:00

My husband has been off since Wednesday, so getting any writing done has been impossible. I'm just a few pages from finishing chapter 4 in Marvelous and hope to do that before my edits for Fire & Ice show up.

On the home front, the homestead is shaping up. My hubby has been moving things, his sailboat and truck away from the house, down by the old house. I told him he could put it up front and slap a For Sale sign on it, but he didn't seem to like that idea. He's used the darn thing 4 times since he got it 4 years ago--that equals to once a year. Why bother keeping it when there is no place close to sail it? It's big, a catamaran, and the nearest lake is like 3 hours away. Men!

Anyway, I need to go do a critique. I'll try and post more often when the hubby goes back to work.

Jerri

I'm having fun again!

2006-09-06T02:54:00.000-07:00

Can you believe it? I'm actually tickled about writing...of course Yancy and Mauve have something to do with that. They are giving me a lot to work with--both sharp-tongued devils. They shared their first kiss in Marvelous yesterday--though it wasn't what it seemed. Yeah, I meant to confuse you. I so love to do that. I will be writing today, play with their emotions somemore and see if I can't get them riled up. When these two get together it will be explosive. Remember, Mauve is in tip-top shape and could probably whip Yancy's butt if she wanted to. Okay, Yancy's yelling at me--"no frickin way." You know men and their need to be stronger, more superior. Anyway, let him think that, otherwise he might take the day off and I can't have him bolting. I need him around, in my head, telling me where to go from here.

If you hadn't noticed, I have a bit of a crush on Clive Owen, who is my image of Yancy. What a cutie petutie. I think I've seen King Arthur 20 times, and Inside Man at least 6. Derailed is coming to the movie channel we have in a week or two and I will be adding it onto my DVR. ; - )

Anyway, I'm off to write. You all have a fabtabulous Wednesday.

Jerri

Some more pages.

2006-09-04T06:52:00.000-07:00

Yes indeed, I wrote some more pages in Mauvelous yesterday. I might just get this book done on time. I had to go back to chapter one and rework the first scene, but I think it's much better now. At least I hope so--I'll see what RWW thinks.

No edits yet on Fire & Ice. I hope that means that not too much needs to be fixed. I might have to write Kay and Paul's story if enough people ask what happened to them. Or Brent and Knox's sister. If I haven't told you, Knox is Alpha male, but Brent is even worse--he's into the whole home movie thing. (Shaking head) How would that go over? I could title it, Burning Desire--caught on tape. Sorry, that was bad.

Anyway, I had to give you another Clive pic--because I can. ; - )

Jerri

I'm on a high--all natural!

2006-09-03T03:12:00.000-07:00

A few more pages written, and I'm feeling good. My goal is to finish Mauvelous by Oct 1st. That way I have two-months to write Caddy-Did. I will be starting Untouched by the beginning of next year--a book I will have to do research for. Lots of it. So, as you can see, I have to buckle down and write everyday for the rest of the year. I know I can do this--I just have to get myself into that mindset.

I saw a ton of new movies so far this weekend. Failure to Launch was funny and sad at the same time. I didn't really watch Benchwarmers, but the kids loved it. I saw the movie with Antonio Banderas, the dance movie--totally fab. I so want to take a Latin Ballroom Dancing class. Last night was saw She's the Man, funny, funny, funny.

Anyway, I'm out of here--you all have a wonderful day.

Jerri

What a difference a day makes.

2006-09-01T15:30:00.000-07:00

I'm in a fairly good place. I got my cover for Fire & Ice and I have to thank Vanessa for a fabulous one. I couldn't be happier with it. On top of that, I'm writing again. Can you believe it. I also received a tentative date for the print release for F & I , January 16th. I can't tell you how much that helped to get me writing again. So, all is right with the world and I'm in for the wildest ride of my life--promo, promo, promo.

Yancy is even being nice--thinking he could be read by a lot of people someday if he helps me finish his story. What an egomaniac. Mauve has been an angel through all of my block..and I want to thank her for that--Yancy--well, we'll just not talk about him.

Chat at Love Romance was great--Dawn, the Moderator is so sweet. I gave away a copy of Saving Grace--the winner--Maithe. I hope she enjoys the book.

Anyway, I'll probably be spending the weekend working on edits for Fire & Ice...not a bad gig believe me. I get to revisit Mel and Knox's love story, and I'm going to have so much fun with it.

Have a wonderful Labor Day weekend!

Jerri

I can't write!

2006-08-29T10:14:00.000-07:00

Seriously, I'm in a funk and have writers block. I've tried for days and days, but I can't write and everything I've written up to this points reeks. Yeah, I'm having a insecure moment--nothing is going right and it's the business end, not the creative side of writing that caused it. A bad review, a rejection from an agent, the list goes on and on. These are the type of things that give a sensitive Cancer writers block. I know it's the nature of the business but for me it suck the life out of my creativity. Yancy is disgusted with me--wants to revolt--or bolt --or just shoot me. I don't blame the man--I'd feel pretty upset too if I had to sit around for days on end in the same place--going over the same lame-ass dialogue. I'm at my happiest when I'm on a writing jag and I haven't had one for--well, forever. I feel like a failure--and that no one would miss me if I stopped writing anyway. Seems like I've had more bad days than good lately and could that be an indicator that it's time to move on--do something different?? I know I'll never stop writing but maybe publication shouldn't be the ultimate goal any longer. I should go back to just writing--maybe enter a few contests--just have fun writing again. That way I wouldn't be checking the internet to find reviews for one of my books, spending hours and hours promoting. I talk a good talk, don't I? But could I do that now? Probably not. Once you're published can you ever go back to the mindset you had before you were? I don't think so. When I wrote my first book I thought I was Gods gift to the literary world. Now I'm not. Oh, to be naive again...how wonderful that would be.

Betty Womack and a handful of Loose-id authors and I are having a publishers day tomorrow at Love Romance....come by and say hi. I'm going to try and hang out as long as I can, give away a download of Saving Grace. If you want to watch Grace and Cord bumble through(Desiree's words, not mine)--come to the loop and try for the PDF. Heck, e-mail me at jerridrennen2001@yahoo.com and I'll enter you to win as well.

Anyway, I'm going to say goodbye. Have a great day.

Jerri

P.S. posting pics of Clive makes me feel better, so sue me.

Taking a workshop!

2006-08-25T03:18:00.000-07:00

I don't do too many--actually, I think I've done maybe three since I started writing. Write 50 books a year. Sounds good doesn't it? Actually, I think it's going to teach me how to be more productive, and frankly, I need that. I'll let you know how it goes, I think it starts Sunday.

I did write a few pages yesterday in Mauvelous--not sure how good they were but that's 2 pages more than I had. I'm almost finished with chapter 3.

I've had a ton of ideas running through my head--a new book idea--one that I dreamt about. I've done that before. "Spirited Beginnings" came from a dream. Another book I need to revise. Maybe I'll post the beginning once I do rewrites. My characters were Todd and Samantha and boy did they fight. Premise: His grandfather leaves an old mansion to Samantha--the granddaughter of the woman he loved and lost. Todd was angry because somewhere in the house is the key to his parent's murder. It's a paranormal in which Todd's mother(ghost) is leaving clues to her killer, and at the same time, trying to get Todd and Samantha together. It was dark yet funny--if that's possible.

Anyway, I'm off to write, you all have a grand day.

Jerri

Blah on writing!

2006-08-24T10:14:00.000-07:00

No, I'm not giving it up, I'm just having a bad week. I worked up a query letter for "Inventing the Abbotts, my intent was to look for an agent-- again. Well, I sent it out to 1 agent, that afternoon, a big, thanks-but-no-thanks. I really don't think I'll ever snag one--Agents just don't seem to like my voice. I can't change that. It's my voice--if someone doesn't feel compelled by it, I can't make them. I do the best I can--isn't that all I can do?

Do I want to continue to subject myself to rejection--that's a hard one--I'm not sure about that. I feel different from one moment to the next.

Still no revisions on Fire & Ice...I hope that means the book is perfect and doesn't need any...yeah, in my dreams. I haven't seen a cover yet either--I'm getting a little nervous. Not really--the covers at Samhain are to die for.

Anyway, have a good day--I'm off to finish chapter 3 of Mauvelous.

Jerri

Would you?

2006-08-22T07:55:00.000-07:00

I have a question, one that was asked of someone my husband knows.
Would you do anything for money? The young guy in question asked, "how much money?" I think that says, yes, he would for the right price. My answer is a resounding no...what's yours? I'm actually glad I can honestly say that. I think a lot of younger people have a hard time saying no to that question. I don't think they are being taught what they should anymore, and it's because hard work doesn't get you what it used to--the American dream. No, stabbing your fellow man in the back does. Sad, isn't it. I miss those carefree days where people cared about their neighbors, about the kids growing up on their block and the elderly.

Where did we go wrong? I have my opinions. I won't bore you with them. I just want to give thanks to all the wonderful people in my life. To the ladies of my critique group, all the loving men and woman caring for my Mother-in-Law, all the teachers at my childrens school that are helping mold them into better people. We can make this world a better place to live--one child at a time.

Jerri

Sorry I got a little deep in my post today. Tomorrow I'll try for a lighter subject matter.

My Tarot reading sounds bad today

2006-08-21T03:34:00.000-07:00

There’s no way denying it: today is not going to be a great day in your emotional sphere, dear Jerri. Under the influence of the Tower and the Chariot you are moving forward, that’s clear – but there is trouble ahead! Too much aggression, too much feverish passion in your emotional environment, too much impulsiveness and pride on your side – you’re bound to get ruffled. Make the best of this crisis to assess your emotional situation. In your professional life, the influence of the Tower is playing havoc! You feel as if you were in a straight jacket and are overcome by insecurity. Try to remain calm under the influence of Justice, who represents you. She is urging you to take decisions and to act without further delay – but this is not a good attitude to adopt today. if you are confronted by unforeseen events or tensions in your relationships, change to the camp of the observers – that’s a much more secure position.

I'm going back to bed and pull the covers over my head. My horoscope for today read pretty much the same.

I did manage to write a couple of pages last night. They sucked, but at least I'm writing. I'm just going to lay low today--hope it's not as bad as they say it's going to be. So, if anyone is wondering what I'm doing--heck, I'll be crawled up in front of the TV watching Clive Owen films. I feel better already.

See you tomorrow.

Jerri

Books, books and more books!

2006-08-18T06:31:00.000-07:00

I've written a lot of books in the six years I've been writing--some have great plots but need rewritten. I have an Eygptian Time-Travel, titled "Loves Eternal Pyramid,"a story that gave me the chills when I learned that Helena, my heroine's name, a name that just came to me, actually was a real woman in the time period I'd chosen and had an Amulet made for her--a ways to a means for my Helena to go back in time to meet the man of her dreams, Rameses. So, people would probably say, "it's just a coincidence" I don't think so. Who knows, maybe I was Helena.

I haven't really taken any time off since I stared writing. As soon as I finish a book, I'm on to the next. Right now I'm working on another series. I just finished the first book, "Inventing the Abbotts" and now I working on "Mauvelous," the second book in the Aztec series.

I going to give you a glimpse of my upcoming release with Samhain, "Fire & Ice," due out October 10th.

This has not been edited.

Blurb

He’s a hunky fire investigator, she creates ice sculptures--when these two get together things can't help but sizzle.

Fire Investigation is Knox Manning’s passion until he meets the suspect in his latest arson case. The moment he locked eyes with Melanie Sharp's powder-blue gaze, his knees buckle, a foreign reaction to the six-foot, two-inch fireman. Their next encounter, a strange humming only audible to Knox begins and grows in intensity until he can no longer deny the attraction he feels for her.

Melanie’s a talent, an up and comer in the cultured art world. When one of her promotional flier’s is found at the scene of a burned out house, she suddenly finds herself the focus of a dark-haired man with a large fire hose. The Blaze had been set, but not by Melanie. She’s determined to prove that to Knox, who has suddenly become the catalyst of her secret, sexual fantasies, igniting an inferno so intense, she's afraid of sustaining third-degree burns.

Excerpt:

Melanie couldn’t breathe. Why did a man who wanted to send her up the river cause her heart to skip like a stone across the water’s surface?

He was a neanderthal, big and brawny, with muscles to spare. She’d bet the farm he had no brain in that gorgeous head of his.

Their first and last conversation played back in her mind. ‘So you’re an artist?’
Duh! How obvious did something have to be?

Kay touched Melanie's hand from across the table. “Melanie, he’s watching you.”

“Yeah, he’s hoping to put me away.”

“I don’t think so, Mel. Those luscious eyes of his are saying, I want your body. Not, I want to send you to Attica.”

Melanie snorted. “Right. I think you’re misreading those eyes. They’re saying, I hope you don’t drop the soap.”

“Come on, Mel, that only happens in male prisons.”

Melanie shook her head. “That’s not the point, Kay. He wants to blame me for that fire. I know it. And with my past with Dean and the previous arson charge, he might just be able to. Don't you watch the news? Innocent people are framed every day for crimes they didn't commit.”

“Calm down. You’re not going to be one of them. Maybe we should do a little investigation of our own. See what we can find out about Dean. Where he was that night. Hell, maybe he set the fire himself to try and frame you.”

Kay's implication was preposterous. No way would Dean burn down his own house. “Why would he do that?”

Kay sighed, then thrummed at her bottom lip. “Well, maybe he figured if he couldn’t have you then no one would. Believe me, men don’t like being dumped. They like to do the dumping. He could have done this to get even with you for that. Who knows? I just think we need to do a little spying on the Grainger’s, see what we can find out.”

“Kay, we are not detectives. I haven’t a clue how to spy on someone. Do you?”
Kay's eyes lit up. “No, but Paul Nader does.”

Melanie’s jaw slacked. There’d be no way he’d help them. “Your ex-fiancé isn’t going to help us, Kay. He hates you."

The light in her friend’s eyes faded. “No he doesn’t. He loves me. That’s why it’s so hard for him to be civil.”

Melanie held her tongue. She wanted to laugh at her friends clouded perceptions. “You keep telling yourself that, Kay. But he does have every right to hate you. Who wouldn't after being left at the alter and thrown over for the best man?”

“Well, technically that’s true, I did do that. But I know he still loves me. Besides, you know I didn’t sleep with Roy. He was just my escape route out of an event I was not ready for. Sleeping with the same man for the rest of my life. I just couldn’t see myself doing that.”

“But, didn’t you tell me Paul was the best lover you've ever had.”

“Yeah, ever had, the operative words. But what about the men I haven't had yet? I just wasn’t ready to stop looking for something better.”

“So, have you had any luck since you broke up with Paul?” Melanie already knew the answer. Kay told her every detail or every romp she'd ever had—including how powerful the orgasms were.

“No, but who knows. He could be just around the corner. Or sitting in this room right now.” Kay glanced around her, her gaze landing on Knox. “Hell, maybe Mr. Fireman over yonder could start a little blaze that he could ever-so-slowly put out. He’s an awful big man. He probably has big attachments.”

Why did Kay’s remark not surprise her? Melanie loved her friend dearly but she could be cruder than a room full of Carnies.

“You know what they say?” Melanie used Kay’s words from earlier.

Her friend’s eyes sparkled, playing along. “No what?”

“It’s not the size that counts. It’s all in the way you use it.”

Kay squinted up her face, looking aghast. “No, honey. It’s the size. Don’t let anyone tell you any different. The only ones who say that size doesn’t matter are men with tiny dicks. “

“Am I interrupting?” a deep, male voice asked, invading their conversation.
Melanie turned to find Knox standing just inches away, his eyes dancing with amusement. He’d obviously heard everything.

She glanced at Kay whose face now resembled an over-ripe tomato.

“What do you want?” Melanie asked, her eyes narrowing, amusement gone.

“I wanted to apologize for the other day. I feel like we got off on the wrong foot.”

Melanie snorted before she could stop herself. Talk about an understatement. Wrong foot her ass. It was much more than a foot. The entire leg and half a hip were included.

“No problem. You caught me at a bad time. I'd been up all night.” She wasn't going to tell him how she really felt. She was in enough trouble.

“Anyway, you two enjoy your lunch.” He started to turn, but Kay's next words stopped his leaving. “Would you like to join us?”

Melanie could have strangled Kay at that moment, but settled for a swift kick under the table.

“Ouch, Mel. That hurt.”

Melanie turned to Knox and caught the twitch of amusement playing around his mouth.

Was he laughing at her? Did he find her discomfort entertaining? We'd see who left O'Malley's with the last laugh.

She smiled. “Kay, ask Mr. Manning about what you were wondering earlier.”

Kay's eyes narrowed and her friend shook her head, pretending not to have understood her.

Melanie’s grin widened. “You know—about his equipment.”

Kay looked mortified. “I don't know what you're talking about?”

“Sure you do. Remember… You wanted to find out how far his fire hose extended.”

I think I'm getting a cold!

2006-08-17T08:33:00.000-07:00

I'm sneezing, sniffling and I have the chills. Crap, haven't I had enough problems this summer? So, the kids have their first day of school today and I'm under the weather. What are the odds? I've only got about a page written for the challenge my critique group is having--I better get to work.

Tomorrow I'm giving away a book at Romance Excerpts Only...so if you want to win a book, come by and drop me a line. I'll let you pick between "Agent in Training" and "Saving Grace." I'll be posting excerpts from all of my books throughout the day.

I'm getting "Inventing the Abbotts" ready to send out. Gulp! Thorn and Ava's story was a lot of fun to write, they were easy to work with, unlike Yancy, who is a BIG pain in the butt.

Anyway, I'm off to write, and try to encorporate the word retractable into the scene. Teehee! Long story.

Bye,

Jerri

Ain't no other man!

2006-08-15T07:33:00.000-07:00

In the famous words of Christina Agulera. I love that song, but when I hear it I think of Yancy.

As far as writing goes, nope, nothing, nadda, nil. I just can't seem to get into the groove, and let me tell you, Yancy isn't happy. "What the hell's the problem? Are you a writer or not?" he bitches, pacing the room like a phobic in an elevator. The man is scary when he's not happy, and sitting in a chair for days has made him downright ugly.
"I can't help the block I'm in," I say. "You try to write with kids screaming, having to stop to run one to band camp, then have her friends stay over. I just can't concentrate."
He glared at me, then says, "Do I look like I care why you can't write. I never asked to be your hero. As I recall, I didn't want anything to do with being a character in one of your trashy novels."
I refuse to let him to goad me because he could if I let him. "I thought you wanted Mauve back. Was I wrong?" I asked.
"Too hell with her. She had her chance. I have my sights set on someone else." "What?" I ground my teeth in anger. "You will do what I tell you."
"Nope. I've decided that Cadence is who I want to sleep with now. Mauve is frigid, had the nerve to say I didn't even get close to giving her an orgasm. I don't need that kind of crap."

See what I have to deal with? The man is impossible. How do you rein your characters in? I need advice because Yancy is about to drive me crazy.

Jerri

Nothing again.

2006-08-14T04:25:00.000-07:00

Still no new writing. I had to get a bio, dedication, blurb and excerpt together for "Fire & Ice" and send it to my editor. That's done. I'm thanking my critique group for all their help, and honesty. Thank you all so very much...Melanie andKnox thank you too. The book is coming out in October, my first romantic comedy, though I believe Samhain categorizes it as a contemporary romance. This will be my first non-suspense, though there is an element of intrigue in the book. Edits will start soon. EEKS!

Anyway, here is my blurb. Does it make you want to read the book?

He’s a hunky fire investigator, she creates ice sculptures--when these two get together things can't help but sizzle.

Fire Investigation is Knox Manning’s passion until he meets the suspect in his latest arson case. The moment he locked eyes with Melanie Sharp's powder-blue gaze, his knees buckle, a foreign reaction to the six-foot, two-inch fireman. Their next encounter, a strange humming only audible to Knox begins and grows in intensity until he can no longer deny the attraction he feels for her.

Melanie’s a talent, an up and comer in the cultured art world. When one of her promotional flier’s is found at the scene of a burned out house, she suddenly finds herself the focus of a dark-haired man with a large fire hose. The blaze had been set, but not by Melanie. She’s determined to prove that to Knox, who has suddenly become the catalyst of her secret, sexual fantasies, igniting an inferno so intense, she's afraid of sustaining third-degree burns.

So, back to Yancy and Mauve today, unless I get my edits. Yancy is pretty sick of sitting around...he's ready to rumble, or jump into bed with Mauve--which ever comes first.

You all have a great day--week. I'll be slaving away in front of my computer, trying to finish chapter 3.

Jerri

Nadda!

2006-08-13T04:15:00.000-07:00

That's right...not a new word got written in "Mauvelous" yesterday, but I did revisions on "Inventing the Abbotts," and some on M. I had to clean the house, teenager having a sleepover. Grrrr.....

Today the hubby is home, not sure what will get done. I'm just not motavated, but I need to get there and soon. I was thinking about trying for an agent again, then quickly dismissed the idea. I guess my voice doesn't appeal to them...oh well. I was talking to a fellow writer the other day, she too has been working at this game a while, frustrated that she hasn't attracted NYC yet. I think the people who so easily get that brass ring will not appreciate it like someone who has been struggling. I know I certainly will. I've been at this game 6 years now--saw writers come and go, had critique partners hit it big and am happy for them, because I know I'll get there too..it's just going to take me longer. When it does come, I will have earned it from all the time and hard work I've put in. Sure, I get down. But I feel my time is coming and when it does, I'll be ready for it. Maybe I wouldn't have been 2 years ago.

Anyway, have to give you all some inspiration. Clive does it for me lately...hope he does it for you too.

Jerri

Finished Chapter 2

2006-08-11T03:06:00.000-07:00

Now I only have 10 chapter to go. Yeah! I guess it makes me feel better to look at it this way. So, Yancy is still in the restaurant, but Mauve is watching, and boy how fun would that be...remember, Yancy looks like Clive. Big sigh yummy! My 9-year-old even thinks he's cute. I totally loved Inside Man. Seriously, you need to watch it more than once to get everything, plot wise. What a heist. What a well thought out story. The only think I didn't like about the movie was that Clive wore a mask most of the time. What a shame to hide such a handsome face. Oh, and he'd dropped his delicious accent. Love a man with an accent. How about you?

Anyway, I'm off to try to start chapter 3...you all have a wonderful day.

Jerri

Cardiologists, storms and lack of motivation!

2006-08-10T02:49:00.000-07:00

Kept me from writing yesterday. I was happy to hear that the doctor doesn't seem to think it's anything serious with my son--what a relief. He did put him on a Beta-Blocker, not sure I like what I read about them. Having some medical knowledge isn't always a good thing. : - ( Did I ever tell you I was seriously thinking about becoming a nurse? My hubby talked me out of it. "Too many diseases you could contract," he said. I think he was more concerned about himself getting something. Whatever. I've diagnosed the last few illnesses in our family--one a doctor misdiagnosed. Give me symptoms, I can usually figure out what's wrong.

Anyway, so Yancy is still sitting in that restaurant, ogling his target, thinking about Mauve and the night he was too drunk to remember. Hopefully I can get some writing done today--through, I'm going to do some yard saling this morning. My teenage-girl is having a friend spend the night on Saturday, so that means cleaning my hut as well. Grrr....

I'm off, hopefully to do something constructive. You all have a wonderful day.

Jerri

P.S. Remember, Saving Grace is available at Loose-id. If you haven't picked up a copy... ; - ) http://www.loose-id.net/detail.aspx?ID=264

Almost done!

2006-08-08T07:46:00.000-07:00

With chapter 2 of "Mauvelous." I think I finally have Yancy under my thumb--but don't tell him that because he'd be angry. He's a man's man and hates anyone telling him what to do. I think he's the most Alpha male I've ever written...and I can hear it now. He isn't very heroic. Grrr...... Hello, who says he has to be? No man I know has to adhere to such high standard, why do male characters in a book? My favorite characters of all time haven't been.

1. Captain Kirk--he was a total player.
2. Mulder--he called 1-800 numbers all the time.
3. House--what a sarcastic, unethically doctor he is.
4. All the male characters on Firefly--hello, they have a concubine living on the ship. Nuff said. Sorry, but I love, love, love men who seem impossible to tame.

How do you feel about this issue? Alpha, alpha or no?

I have to take my teenage boy to get registered for school today...so, I'm off.

Here's a taste of what I wrote yesterday:

Yancy sat and took the menu she offered, then watched as she sashayed away, his eyes glued to her firm ass, inadvertently comparing it to Mauve’s. Hum. His partner would have to win hands down. Hell, he’d bet money you could bounce a quarter off Mauve’s rear-end.

His ex-lover was in damn fine shape. No doubt from hours spent in the gym, practicing tae kwon do. The woman could give him a run for his money and he was twice her size. To bad he couldn't remember much about her naked form—it'd give him something to mull over while he waited for his food.

Jerri

Not one word!

2006-08-07T03:08:00.000-07:00

I didn't write one single word yesterday. I did manage to do 4 critiques though. I guess that's something. I'm questioning myself again, and feeling strangely put off by some things, matters that may just be my imagination. I feel disjoined, as if I need to make some changes. We'll see what I decide.

It's Monday. A return to the routine. Running the 17-year old back and forth, back and forth, back and forth. You get the picture. Sitting out in the heat for 25 minutes because her instructor decides to keep them after. Ugh! I guess they don't think the parents have better things to do. They're wrong. Can you tell that I'm a little cranky? Sore subject.

Anyway, I'm off to do something--hopefully it'll be writing related.

Jerri

Blah, Blah, Blah!

2006-08-06T06:42:00.000-07:00

One day you're up, the next you're down. I don't plan to go into why that is for me--at least not today. I'm just venting my frustrations. Actually, a lot of things have got me down lately. I think the heat is finally getting to me. It's really not fun to walk in 100 % weather, but if I don't, I feel crappy...heck, either way I feel crappy. Aren't I just a big old downer??? Sorry!

I've caught the tail end of some controversy in blogland about something written in regards to where romance is headed. What constitutes as romance. I try not to judge one genre or another. Trends are trends. I say if you don't like a type of book, don't buy it. Easy fix, why argue about it. Am I right?

So, I'm about halfway through Chapter Two of "Mauvelous." Yancy is trying to charm his way into 'said woman's' life without success--at least that's what he thinks. He's a damned fine looking man--no woman can resist him--especially Mauve, but she is trying to.

Anyway, I'm off. I have like 6 critiques to do. You all have a good day.

Jerri

P.S. I want to thank Marty for the lovely card she sent me when I was feeling low--it was adorable.

3 1/2 pages.

2006-08-04T03:29:00.000-07:00

That's what I wrote yesterday. Not quite half a chapter but I'm moving ahead and that was my goal--to write everyday. I hope to get as many done today. I know where I'm going, I just hope Yancy doesn't defect. Though, he gets to cozy up to a beautiful woman, and I don't believe he'll have a problem with that. Did I mention this woman isn't Mauve? Yeah, she's real happy about this--let me tell you. Wait until Yancy and this woman get cozy--Mauve might have a coronary. Right now she thinks she can handle it--we'll see. God how I love to tear my characters emotions to shreds. LOL

Anyway, I have a critique to do, and I have to get ready to take the teenager to Band Camp. You all have a wonderful Friday.

Jerri

Chapter 1--done!

2006-08-03T06:06:00.000-07:00

I finished chapter 1 of "Mauvelous" yesterday. Only 11 chapters to go. I guess that's a weird way to look at it when you've just begun a book. I'd really love to get halfway through chapter 2 today--and that'll be my goal. I hope I can do it.

Chapter one's ending hook:

Mauve scowled at Yancy’s reference to them working together.
That’s what it appeared to him, that they were a team. But Muacac wasn’t the only man being watched. Yancy was also under surveillance—and if he proved to be working for the enemy, he’d be hung out to dry and pay dearly for his betrayal. Last she heard, being a traitor to your country got you the death penalty.

Tell me what you think? Does it leave you wanting to go to the next chapter?

It's supposed to be a bit cooler today--chance of rain. I hope it does--we need it. The ground is so dry, the grass dying.

On another note, I got my business cards yesterday--and they're too cool. I love them. I'm ready to kick my career to the next level.

Have a wonderful day!

Jerri

An Ah-hah moment!

2006-08-02T03:28:00.000-07:00

Yes, I had one yesterday. I had been thinking about how to tie the last book into my Aztec Series and it just came to me while I was writing Mauve's scene in chapter 1. I said out-loud and my family is watching a movie--"I'm brilliant--I can't believe how smart I am." My son laughs. So, clearly he doesn't think I'm brilliant, but I do at this point. So I'm not--I've come up with a cure for Cancer smart, but all you writers of series know that you have to have a tie in and when it comes, and so brilliantly, you're tickled and a bit proud of yourself. So "Caddy-Did" has a beginning--as does "Mauvelous." And to add delight to it all--the tie in will add more conflict to Mauve and Yancy's romantic life--like there wasn't enough already. : - )

So, I'm having fun again, which to me, only makes me want to write more. I can do this. I can write the way I used to with some hard work and determination.

Anyway, off to have fun writing--you all have a great day.

Jerri

I think I have him under control!

2006-08-01T02:58:00.000-07:00

Yancy, what a difficult hero he is. Talk about a stubborn man--like they're not all. : - ) I managed a few pages yesterday, have the first scene in the book done--starting on Mauve's scene now. I know she won't give me as much grief as that hardheaded man has. So, I'm starting to move forward. I really want to get this book finished in 2 months. I know I can if I just set my sights on that. I'm going to write everyday--no matter what.

Yesterday it was so darn hot here that I couldn't take my walk. At 5:30 it was still 100 degrees. Grrr! I am totally looking forward to fall this year, and frankly I never have before. Why is it so darn hot? Global Warming? I so want it to cool down for awhile.

My oldest son called me yesterday--told me that his blood pressure has been going through the roof. When he was 14 he had surgery to correct a narrowing in the Aorta. So, now he's getting symptoms again. I made him an appointment to see a Cardiologist. Tell me why guys wait until they're in bad shape to see a doctor? I've been telling him for years to go in and have some tests done--but no, he wouldn't do it. Now he's worried and willing. (mother hen shaking her head.)

I'm going to say bye, bye, bye. Sorry, that's the song that's up on my website now--with a little twist to it.

Jerri

It's Monday--and you know what that means.

2006-07-31T03:57:00.000-07:00

I'll be moving headlong into "Marvelous." That's right.
Yancy can be all, "but I'm a secret agent--I need to stay a secret."
"Nah, you need to look good and try to win back the affects of Mauve O'Connor. His comment to that, "She'd be lucky to have me."
"But she can't trust you," I say. "She thinks you've gone rogue on her.
Yancy: "I'm a rogue all right, but not in that sense. Too hell with her. I don't need any woman."
"You're going to be awfully lonely," I say.
"Loniness is for sissy's," is Yancy's comeback. "I have my hand to keep me company."
I roll my eyes and open said document. He has no say in this...with or without his consent, he's the hero in "Mauvelous" and might as well get used to it.

I'm off to fight with Yancy. You all have a great day.

Jerri

It's finished!

2006-07-29T09:34:00.000-07:00

Hard to believe, isn't it? I wrote The End of "Inventing the Abbotts" yesterday. It needs a little work, but at least I got it done finally. Hopefully, by Monday I'll be engrossed in "Mauvelous," writing like a fiend to get it finished within a few months. I'd actually like to get both it and "Caddy-Did" done by Christmas. That way I can start the new year on a new project, "Untouched"--yes, I do have another book plotted out after the Aztec Series. Also, I want to go back and finish "Photographic Memories" too. Tall order. So many books to finish, so little motivation. But that's what I plan to work on--my drive to write more--like I used to before I was published.

I'm so glad it's Saturday. No running back and forth to town to pick up the teenager--just a day where I can do whatever I want. I don't have to get out in the heat if I don't want to. Thank God! It's really, really hot here again. Ugh!

Anyway, my eyes are sore, so I'm going to sign off. You have a good day.

Jerri

The high has ended!

2006-07-28T03:37:00.000-07:00

All it takes is one, not-so-stellar review to bring you down. Oh well, life goes on. I'll put it behind me. Tough skin going up. I do realize that everything is subjective, and that what one loves, another hates. After all, I was a reader before I was a writer and haven't loved every book I've read. So subject closed--moving on.

I'm almost ready to write the end of "Inventing"--going to do it today. Yeah, I know. I've been saying that for over a week now, but it's Friday and it's time to go headlong into "Marvelous" starting on Monday. I need to write faster, stop farting around on the loops and get some serious work done.

I want to thank Olga for the lovely Birthday present she sent me--the woman is so darn sweet. Big hugs, Dear friend! : - )

Sorry, but I had to post another picture of Clive. Oh boy, I think he's just so adorable.

Bye!

Jerri

Feeling pletty darn good.

2006-07-27T08:08:00.000-07:00

Reviews are starting to come in for "Saving Grace" and I couldn't be more thrilled. Here is a taste of what they're saying.

Sensual e-cata: http://sensual.ecataromance.com/reviews?type=&id=265

Saving Grace is an amazingly fast paced romance with enough tension and lust between Grace and Cord to have you rooting for them from the beginning. Their chemistry is amazing and the story itself flows and develops naturally. This was an outstanding book and well worth the money. Anyone who loves a good suspense mixed with their romance must read Saving Grace.

Coffeetime romance:

Blazing with action, and chunked full of mystery, this tale grabs you from beginning to end. Exceptionally written, this suspense goes from fast to furious in a matter of seconds, and while you are waiting to catch your breath, there is plenty of sexual tension and steamy romance to keep you riveted. Ms. Drennen really does a splendid job of pulling suspense and romance together, to make a very entertaining read.

I'm just glad that they're responding to the book so well. I loved writing Cord & Grace's story.

My editor at Samhain told me to expect to start edits soon of "Fire & Ice." Gulp! I know I've done them a few times now but its still very daunting. I just want the book to be perfect--well, as perfect as I can get it. Knox was one of my favorite heroes, a bit rough around the edges, and that's why I like him. Melanie isn't gorgeous, doesn't have the hottest body, but he finds himself mesmerized by her. This will be my first romantic comedy published. I hope that its received well. You never know if what you think is funny, is humorous to everyone else. Crossing fingers that they will.

I'm off, you all have a great day and don't forget to drop by Lucy Monroe's blog party. You can win tons of prizes.

Giving Thanks!

2006-07-26T04:22:00.000-07:00

To two authors today. First, to a good friend and critique partner for finding two new reviews for "Saving Grace." The woman is like a bloodhound when it comes to finding them. Thanks, Pam!

Secondly, I want to thank Lucy Monroe for including me in her blog party. They are having a wild time over there so jump over and see what's in the works for today. Thanks, Lucy! I got a ton of hits on my website. I owe you one!

http://lucymonroeblog.blogspot.com/

Yes, I did write yesterday, about a page. Finished the love scene. Now I just have to write that satifying ending. Wish me luck.

Yancy has been ragging at me again. "What the hell you writing a story about me for. I'm an undercover agent. I need to keep a low profile. Do you want to get me killed?"

I don't, but some kick-ass redhead might feel differently. A husky laugh breaks out from behind me. "Oh please, let me. The man deserves to die, and I'm just the woman to do it."

So, you all have a wonderful Wednesday. I'll be finishing a book!

Jerri

Why is this so hard?

2006-07-24T03:50:00.000-07:00

I'm really fighting to finish the last pages of "Inventing the Abbotts." Grrr & Urgh! Writing the end is very hard for me, though this ending has been like a wisdom tooth to get out. I want to put my whole heart into "Mauvelous" and I can't until I finish the first book in the series. Hopefully, I can do this today. Monday. The start of a new week. Yeah, I'm going to do it. I'm going to finish it today. Mark my words, and shoot me if I don't.

The 17-year-old has Band Camp all this week. Can you say a pain in the rump? Back and forth, back and forth to get her. A big pain is what it is. Did I mention that she does nothing to help around the house and is constantly asking for money. Why she should get any is beyond me. Whatever!

I wanted to watch The Fallen last night but it start at 7 and I thought it started at 8...so, I didn't watch it. I went to bed instead. My favorite thing to do is sleep. ; - )

I have like a ton of critiques to do, so I'll talk at you later.

Jerri

What a great day!

2006-07-23T05:15:00.000-07:00

I had a really good birthday yesterday. So many people wished me Happy Birthday. I got to see my name in a Borders books computer system and that just made my day. I feel like a real author now. I love Loose-id & Samhain publishing. Super, super companies to work for. With fabulous authors.

On a writing note: I finished my synopsis for "Inventing the Abbotts." I really hate writing them. Now I just have to write the end of the book and an outline for Mauvelous and Caddy-Did....then off to my editor. So, that's a tall order, but I am so hyped about this Border thing that I'm rejuvenated. I'm going to write like the wind--hopefully I won't knock down any powerlines. Ugh! LOL!

Happy Sunday all!

Jerri

The weather outside was frightful!

2006-07-21T09:04:00.000-07:00

We were without powerful for a full day, no central air in 103 % weather. The St. Louis area took a real beating, over 600,000 people lost power. We lost one of our business' in town. The weather in Missouri has been downright scary the past few years. We were just lucky that a friend had a generator and we didn't lose everything in our frig. You really appreciate electricity when you don't have it. : - (

No writing got done with no power, we were just trying to stay cool, not easy let me tell you.

On a more positive note, my book "Fire & Ice" is up in the coming soon section at Samhain, and I want to thank them for the sweet birthday card they sent to me. It was so nice.

Currently, I'm going to be making some serious changes in some of my day-today dealings--giving less time to some things that I've given a lot of my attention to.

Anyway, you all have a wonderful day.

Jerri

I'm praying that it cools down.

2006-07-19T03:20:00.000-07:00

Had to take the 17-year old in to have a tooth pulled. She's doing fine. It was so hot here yesterday and I was out in it too much--got a migraine from the heat. I know now why people get cranky this time of the year when it's this hot. I was downright bitchy after coming in out of the heat. Will this heatwave ever let up? I want some 80 degree weather--please.

I worked on a little revision yesterday, but as far as new writing, nope, didn't happen. The hubby is going back to work today, so hopefully I'll get some writing done.

Remember, if you haven't gotten a copy of "Saving Grace" it's available now at Loose-id. Just press on banner and it'll take you to where you can buy the book. Cord and Grace are counting on you to help a sista out.

I've been working on the beginning of "Mauvelous", this is what I have. Does it grab your attention or not?

Yancy Adams stalked down the long, empty hallway of Aztec Security, wondering what David Henson had to talk to him about and whether he’d be searching the want-ads in the morning for another kill or be killed position. Did they even advertise those kinds of jobs in the paper? Probably not.

Anyway, you all have a wonderful Wednesday.

Jerri

I didn't do it!

2006-07-18T04:03:00.000-07:00

It's impossible to get any writing done with the whole family around--even my oldest son stopped by for awhile. Currently, Thorn and Ava are in the shower, but that's as far as I've gotten. I can't write a love scene with the hubby and kids hovering--no way--no how. Today, the 17-year old is going to get a molar pulled, so, there goes yet another day of writing shot down. Hopefully, tomorrow I'll be able to write the end of "Inventing the Abbotts." You'd think 5 pages wouldn't be so daunting, right? Jeez!!

I bet you guys are sick to death of me posting pics of Clive. I'm trying to get into the mindset of Yancy's character, and Clive helps. Okay, I'm lying. I just like seeing pictures of Clive. LOL

I know, I know, I'm warped. But you gotta still love me, right?

Off to do something constructive!

Jerri

When it's hot, it's hot!

2006-07-17T11:44:00.000-07:00

Here in the Show-Me state it's downright stifling. Almost as hot as Clive. You don't want to spend any length of time outside--it's too miserable.

I managed 3 pages yesterday--nothing yet today, but I hope to finish "Inventing the Abbotts" later today. "Mauvelous" is waiting in the wings--Yancy is pacing the floors, wanting to explain to Mauve why he didn't tell anyone he was alive. Now she doesn't trust him, thinks he's working for the enemy. So, Thorn and Ava will get their happily-ever-after, and hopefully today.

I'm off to do some writing--you all try and stay cool.

Jerri

I did write about a page.

2006-07-16T04:24:00.000-07:00

Blah. I want to write like I used to, pages and pages and pages. Maybe I need to step back, go offline for awhile and just write. Do I need to check my e-mail a million times a day? No. But I do. Nothing pressing is in there--no submissions out, so why can't I manage to stay off long enough to get some writing done. Can you be addicted to the internet? My goal for the upcoming week, to stay off the intenet and write. So, I'll see you on the flip side of this writing jag and I'll let you know how many pages I manage to write. Have a good day and a productive week.

On another note: The more I look at Clive Owen the more I like what I see. Big Sigh! Let me give you another pic. He sure does have a big gun--I mean weapon.

Jerri

Anything but....

2006-07-15T03:54:00.000-07:00

Writing. Grrrr... Man, I seriously can't write. Every word is a struggle again and that fries me because I need to finish "Inventing the Abbotts." I really don't know whats wrong with me--maybe I'm drying up creatively.

So, for some inspiration, here is a picture for you....Clive Owen as Yancy Adams, my hero in "Mauvelous." I watched King Authur a week or so ago and I just knew he was my image of Yancy. I've always thought Clive was handsome but in King Authur, he's just gorgeous. What do you think?

On the music front, I bought myself an early birthday present--July 22-- a day I share with a dear friend and critique partner, Kim. Anyway, I got Michael Buble's` "It's Time." This guy has a voice to die for. His music brings me back to when I was young--Frank Sanatra, Dean Martin, Bobbie Darren crooning. My favorite song on the track is "Home." As I recall, Elliott sang the song on American Idol. What a beautiful tune.

I'm off to do something--I'm sure it won't be writing. : - (

Jerri

When it rains, it pours.

2006-07-14T07:38:00.000-07:00

So, I'm feeling a bit better, and now my teenage daughter has a tooth that needs to come out. Does it ever end. Everything is so darn expensive--even with insurance. With gas prices skyrocketing, the cost of living has taken a toll on everyone, especially the working class who were just getting by before the rising costs. Are things ever going to get better? I'd be a fool not to be worried about where all this is headed. As a Cancer, security is an all-important need for me, and if I don't have it, I'm not a happy camper...and in this economy, well you know what I'm getting at.

On a more positive note, can I call myself a writer if I'm not writing? Okay, so it wasn't a positive note, but how do you segue from gloom and doom?? I did try to write yesterday, wrote a few sentences, but I couldn't concentrate. I don't know what's wrong with me. I hope to get past it soon.

I started another book, "Without Sin" by Charles Smithdeal. I'm only a few chapters in, so I'm going to reserve judgment until I'm further into the story. I wouldn't consider it a romance, though they is an ailment. I believe it's a bit of a drama--a secret that neither characters knew about or that one was hiding about their family. I'll give you a review when I'm finished with the book.

Anyway, have to run in an pick up a prescription for the 17-year old.

Same time tomorrow.

Jerri

Even in small communities--people know what e-books are.

2006-07-13T03:53:00.000-07:00

So, I went to my Dr's appointment yesterday.(waving at the staff, who were so nice) No Asthma. Yah! Probably just a URI that caused the lungs to fill with air--an asthmatic symptom. I hope to be a hundred percent by next week. Anyway, two of the gals were tickled that I wrote romantic suspense and were going to check out my website.

Authors: You can promote yourselves where ever you are...remember that.

No writing yesterday. Blah! I need to get in the groove again. I have a challenge starting Saturday with two of my critique partners, so hopefully I'll finish "Inventing the Abbotts" by this weekend and maybe even the first chapter of "Mauvelous."

Anyway, I'm off to get rolling on writing the end of Thorn & Ava's story. Have a wonderful day!

Jerri

What did I do yesterday?

2006-07-12T04:41:00.000-07:00

I worked on "Mauvelous." I've only got about 2 pages and I keep going over them again and again. I'm starting to wonder if I'm cut out for this writing gig. I'll tell you why. I received my first review for "Saving Grace"--not the 5 stars I wanted--I got 4. I know that by Loose-id's standards the book isn't erotic, so that might be why.

Opening paragraph of "Mauvelous"--be honest, does it suck? Betty, don't answer that.

Yancy Adams stalked down the long, empty hallway of Aztec Security, wondering what David had to talk to him about and whether he’d be searching the want-ads in the morning for another kill or be killed position.

On the home front, I have a doctors appointment with a breathing specialist today. I'll find out if I have Asthma or not. I actually feel better than I did--been taking Mucinex and let me tell you, this stuff works. I'd do an ad for them if they asked me to. hint! hint! It's a wonderful drug.

Goals for the next few weeks.

1. Finish Inventing the Abbotts by this weekend.
2. Write at least 2 chapters a week in Marvelous until finished.
3. Write a synopsis for Inventing the Abbotts and outlines for the other two books in the Aztec series and send it to my editor.
4. Introduce myself over at the Samhain loops...yeah, I know..I'm so slow, but I need to start getting in the groove for "Fire & Ice."
5. Be happy...this one is very important.

I'm off to do a critique or two, you all have a wonderful day.

Jerri

I think oxygen is important for brain function.

2006-07-11T03:31:00.000-07:00

And, I'm not breathing in enough to write anything coherent. Well, at least in my mind. Thank God I have my critique partners to tell me so. Thank you, Betty!

I started the second book in my Aztec Series, "Mauvelous," and I believe that every word is crap. Betty says no, but I think she's just been a good friend. A line that confused her and would any reader that hadn't read "Inventing the Abbotts," Maybe he should have stayed dead. Great line actually, but totally confusing to the reader without clarifying. Right? See what a bout of Asthma can do to you brain. Turn it to moosh, and mine is all moosy inside.

On the home front, the kids were a total nightmare yesterday...the teenager on the phone half the day, the younger two trying to kill each other, and calgon did not take me away. I love, love, love my children, I really do, but they can get on my last nerve when I'm not feeling up to par.

I just finish Johanna Lindsey's, "Marriage Most Scandalous," and have to say that all-in-all I enjoyed it. I was totally shocked to find out that Sebastian did not really kill Gile's as he'd thought, that it was a ruse to save his father's life. Great twist Johanna...gotta love an unexpected one and that was definitely unexpected. I didn't even cringe at the he thought stuff, which she didn't have too much of. So, I can be a reader again, just not in my chosen genre.

Anyway, I have to get to writing, you all have a wonderful day.

Jerri...breath in...breath out. Now repeat!

Oh, no, not another blog.

2006-07-10T09:06:00.000-07:00

This is my first post on my new Blogger site. I'm just checking things out to see how everything works. I do plan to play around with it a bit when I get a chance, customize it to fit me and my suspense writing.

Here is the cover to my latest release, "Saving Grace", a romantic suspense available at Loose-id. Click on cover to get more imformation and read an excerpt.

Jerri