Play the PANDORA'S HOPE Interactive Side Mission!

The Nova have declared war in Space-Corp territory, and we need your help! Join Suxie, Buzz, and Security Manager Parker of Pandora's Hope as the commander of your own space battle ship--your choices will determine whether or not Space-Corp wins the war.

Start here.

Good luck, Commander!

Amazon's #1 Bestselling Erotic Horror

The Darkness and the Night: Blood and Coffee is currently Amazon's #1 bestselling erotic horror paperback!


Both Blood and Coffee and Cosmic Orgasm have been riding the top ten spots in Amazon's list for months now, but today Blood and Coffee hit #1. My thanks to readers for your continued interest in this dark and different vampire trilogy. It has been such a pleasure to take you along with me on Karen's dark odyssey, and I have enjoyed your letters of response and support. I thoroughly enjoyed writing all three books in The Darkness and the Night, and I am so delighted to be able to share them with people like you.

Happy reading!

SFR Brigade Holiday Blitz!

If you love SFR, you don't want to miss the SFR Brigade's Holiday Blitz! There are over 50 books up for grabs. Stop by the SFR Brigade for details.

Happy holidays!

Now in Paperback!

You asked, and Ravenous Romance delivered: The Darkness and the Night III: Twins of Darkness has finally arrived in paperback! Stop by Amazon for details.

TWINS OF DARKNESS

Karen learns quickly that being both a mother and a vampire is no easy task, especially since her children, fraternal twins Anna and Andy, are not typical kids. Anna, although seemingly human, has the unique ability to not only travel the Astral, but also manipulate objects and people between planes. Andy also appears to be a normal human boy, but appearances prove disastrously deceiving. With the help of her blood donor and lover, Jason, Karen does her best to offer the twins a "normal" suburban life. Despite them, Anna and Andy come into their own, exploring their family's past . . . and the very different beings they are both slowly becoming. In the process, the story takes one on a wild ride that breaks beyond the boundaries of time and reality, sexual exploration, love and sacrifice . . . and back to the vampire commune.

Happy reading!

What Draws Me to Write Erotic Sci-Fi and Horror . . . with Literary Elements

One might think there would be major differences between writing space opera and crafting erotic horror, but it is what they have in common that makes both genres among my favorites to write. Take the similarities between aliens and vampires, for example. You might not think the two have much of anything in common, but consider the following:

• Since both are open to creative interpretation, the sky’s the limit on character attributes, strengths, weaknesses, abilities, beliefs, etc.
• Both allow for creative freedom in world-building and universe “rules.”
• Both create an outlet through which the author might explore the human condition.

I also happen to be a big fan of canonical literature, so I also feel compelled to write for the well-read audience. The result is my own unique brand of dark, literary erotica: multi-layered, with intricate characters and an intense reading experience.

Fang-tastic Books writes about The Darkness and the Night: Blood and Coffee: "Lisa Lane has managed to combine it all into one fascinating read that defies conventional genre labeling. She's a great storyteller with a wild imagination and if you are interested in something dark and new this is a book for you."

Bitten by Books writes about The Darkness and the Night II: Cosmic Orgasm: “Karen is one vampire that you won’t forget!”

Cerebral Reviews writes about The Darkness and the Night III: Twins of Darkness: "As I’ve already said, the plot is superb, and when such a plot comes along, I always marvel at the human imagination and what it can produce. . . . I won’t reveal the spoiler here, but what I will say is what happens between Karen and the person ‘brought back’ gave me pause to wonder what I would do in her situation. Yes, it made me stop reading to ponder, but I see that as a good thing. A book that can make you think like that…well, it’s good, right?"

Whipped Cream Erotic Reviews writes of Lust in Space: “Ms. Lane embraced all that we love about sci-fi fantasy and heated it up to super-nova proportions. My question for Ms. Lane is, is this a long-term mission? If so, I'm applying for a boarding pass.”

I don’t write just to tell stories, but because I love words. I love crafting sentences that contain multiple meanings, creating characters that have no choice but to face their dark sides, and building worlds in which politics, religion, and hypocrisy are free domain and subject to my literary wrath (Stephen King and Kurt Vonnegut meets Scribblerus, if you will). I write because I want to leave my readers with something different, something profound or personally meaningful.

Since many of my storylines are so complex, I ask you the reader: Have either the Lust in Space books or The Darkness and the Night trilogy left you with unanswered questions, unsure about characters, or unsure about a twist? Conversely, have you found (or think you have found) any of my literary “Easter eggs” and care to share? I’d love to chat about it.

A Thankful Thanksgiving: Paperback Giveaway

I'm thankful for today, not because it's Thanksgiving, but because today is a good day. I've lived both in comfort and extreme poverty, in health and incredible illness, and in both lonliness and profound companionship--"I'm thankful for today" is not just rhetoric to me; it really means something.

Today, I'm thankful for my close family and friends, my health, and for the books I've written. None may be perfect, but they are all very dear to me.

So, today through December 1, 2010, I'm asking you to leave a short note telling others why "I'm thankful for today" is not just rhetoric to you, either. I will choose one winner for every ten entries to receive a paperback copy of Pandora's Hope. Have a great day!

Excerpt: PANDORA'S HOPE

The Buvah’s rarity in Space-Corp was one detail that the entire ship had taken for granted, and one for which the key members of the crew could have been better prepared, had Nora read all of the information Corporate had sent her. As Suxie learned, the Buvah were bi-gendered and bisexual people; Jocar had adopted the female gender since childhood but her sexual preference was other Buvah. When among humans and other hetero- and homosexual beings, however, Jocar preferred the company of females. Females had the Buvah feminine features she found attractive, although her mixed anatomy proved too strange for most of the human women she had tried dating. Suxie was definitely not human, and she was perfect.

Nora was able to spot the relationship the next time she saw them together, the way they looked at one another betraying them both. The two moved with that new-fling euphoria, the state between two highly compatible bodies in which a simple glance can still the senses and throw the mind into dream. Nora thought about all the times in the past when she and Robert had looked at one another in that same way. She had allowed it to cloud her judgment once or twice, and she could only hope that Suxie or Jocar might not allow themselves to get so distracted. They remained professional and completed their tasks, so Nora saw no reason to acknowledge or intervene on their private affair.

It was nice to see Suxie happy. Still, there as something Nora didn’t trust about Jocar. She felt strongly that the new officer was keeping something from her, and her gut told her the new crew member was possibly gunning for her job. She was pleasant to work with, but she did take many notes, notes that were most assuredly headed for Corporate. Nora hoped Jocar was not using Suxie for more information on Pandora’s Hope’s colorful past, and she could only guess at what Jocar’s First Officer’s Report would look like.

Versatile Blogger

I snagged a Versatile Blogger Award through the SFR Brigade, so I thought I'd share! The Versatile Blogger Award asks bloggers to do three things:

1. Thank the giver and link back to them.

Thanks to Laurie Green for sharing this with your fellow Brigaders.


2. List seven things about myself.

1. I've written ten novels in four different genres.
2. My favorite authors are Wells, Vonnegut, King, Stapledon, and Asimov.
3. I have seven siblings.
4. I have a black belt in karate.
5. While working on Pandora's Hope, somehow I managed to write 8000 words in one day.
6. I become irritable when I don't have enough time to write.
7. I'm notably eccentric in person--and it took me over thirty years to stop trying to change that.

3. Pass the award on to 15 other bloggers.

I pass this award on to:

1. Dana Fredsti
2. Angela Cameron
3. Lilly Cain
4. "Hagel Rat" of Un:Bound
5. Roxanne Rhoads
6. Lana Griffin
7. Carole Gill
8. Isabel Roman
9. Phoebe Jordan
10. Keta Diablo
11. Ryan Field
12. Clayton Bye
13. "One Crazy Stitch"
14. Savannah Chase
15. Trudy Doyle

Have fun and happy reading!

Halloween Weekend Scavenger Hunt!

Join Whipped Cream and Long and Short Reviews this weekend for a web-hopping scavenger hunt.

The rules are easy: Stop by Long and Short Reviews promo page, check out the links, and find the hidden icons. There are six huge prize packs up gor grabs.

Go to http://www.longandshortreviews.com/promo.htm for more information--or to get started! Good luck!

Review: PUSSY TALES, by Natasha Brooks

Mother of two, Jasmine, falls into an early midlife crisis of sorts when her husband leaves her, her bank account freezes, and she loses her job all at once. She meets smooth-talking and sexy Lorenzo, who convinces her to become an escort for his service.

I had a hard time following Jasmine’s motivations, although I did empathize with her rough situation. The narration is very colloquial, which works for the first-person point of view, but unfortunately the book’s numerous editing errors cannot be overlooked. This story has a lot of heart, though, and I would like to share a passage I particularly liked:

“I did a lot of soul search and thought about my decision to become an escort. It was not something that I had to do. It was something that I wanted to do. It was liberating. It made me feel powerful and in control, especially at a time in my life where I had lost a lot. I don’t blame Lorenzo, although I now question his motives. Sometimes, sex and passion and control can give a false sense of love. I thought about it all for a long time locked up in my room. But, I had no
regrets about my decision at all.”



Natasha Brooks is the Editor-in-Chief of Bare Back Magazine, an erotic ezine, and has edited several erotic anthologies for Emerging Edge Publishing.

Buy Pussy Tales on Amazon.
Find out more about Natasha Brooks at Emerging Edge Publishing

Amazon's Current Top 5 Erotic Horror Novels

1. Psycop: Property, by Jordan Castillo Price

2. Studio Sex: An Annika Bengtzon Thriller, by Liza Marklund

3. Camp Hell: A Psycop Novel, by Jordan Castillo Price

4. The Darkness and the Night: Blood and Coffee, by Lisa Lane

5. Hottest Blood - Hot Blood Series: The Ultimate in Erotic Horror, edited by Jeff Celb and Michael Garrett

My sincere thanks to peers, friends, and family for your continued support. Thanks for reading!

Excerpt: BLOOD AND COFFEE

Warning:


Short


Graphic


Horror


Scene


Ahead


....


You've been warned.

“Why won’t you just admit it?” Jia asked, taking Karen’s secrecy personally.

“Because it’s none of your business,” Karen growled. She finished the glass and
poured herself another.

“So, you’re not denying it?”

Karen set down her glass and slowly turned to the girl with a frustrated breath.
“What is it to you?”

Jia cleared her throat, her demeanor nervous and uncertain. “I want you to change me.”

Karen couldn’t help but allow a perplexed laugh to escape her as she turned away from the girl. “You’re out of your mind!”

“I don’t belong...here! You came here for a reason. I’m sure of it!” Jia continued, the rejection clearly shaking her.

Karen wanted to ask Jia why she would find such a horrific life so attractive, but instead she simply walked toward the door. As she reached the living room, Jia came upbehind her, brandishing a butcher knife.

“Stop!” Jia cried, firmly clutching the thick knife handle in one hand, pressing the far edge of the sharp blade against the wrist of the other. Tears streamed down her face.

Karen froze, fearing that Jia was capable of following through with her threat. “You don’t know what you’re doing!” Karen pleaded.

“Don’t I?” A strange smile crept across her face, and then in one quick move the blade sliced through to the bone and fell to the floor. Jia’s smile wavered as she saw the massive streams of blood leaving her with every pump of her speeding heart. She looked back at Karen with surprise and horror as her legs failed her and her sight went dim.

“Somebody, help!” Karen yelled as she ran to Jia’s side and tried to stop the bleeding with a towel. The hunger was indeed beginning to set in and the drive to take the wound to her mouth was overwhelming. But she closed her eyes and breathed through her mouth to keep from seeing and smelling the warm liquid that now covered them both.

“You can save me,” Jia cried.

“I can’t!” She wasn’t a monster, Karen reminded herself several times over. The thought was tempting just to finish the girl off, as her odds of surviving weren’t looking good. She did entertain, for only a moment, attempting to infect Jia to save her life, but Karen knew that she would hate herself even more than she already did if she were to go through it. She wouldn’t turn and unleash upon the world a confused, angry teenage vampire.

She wasn’t a monster; she would not feed off a dying child...

The Darkness and the Night: Blood and Coffee is currently one of Amazon's top-selling erotic horror paperbacks.

"Those who like a bit of gore with their sexual tension will hunt down the second and third volumes." --PENTHOUSE FORUM, December 2009


Blood and Coffee is also available for Kindle and other e-readers.

Trailer: THE DARKNESS AND THE NIGHT TRILOGY

Opinions Wanted

This summary is not available. Please click here to view the post.

Review: THE MANNY DIARIES

Evan is a young man at a crossroads: he is no longer in denial about his sexual orientation, but, as a burned out and unemployed artist, his life seemingly lacks direction. By a strange twist of fate, he finds himself working as the nanny for a desperate divorcée—and falling for her handsome and adventurous ex.

I found the first forty or fifty pages to move slowly, although I found the back-story to be relevant and useful. With that said, I must say that I finished the remainder of the novel in one sitting. I also must say—and I do not use this word lightly, as I can be quite the snob about what I read—that the last 3/4 of The Manny Diaries is brilliant. The scene progressions are lovely, the characters are fun, and the twists are sometimes surprisingly numerous, but always rewarding. I did find Evan’s tantrum at the end of the story to be a little excessive, but overall I loved the character and I loved what Kilpatrick did with the story—it is a fun twist on the coming of age, the coming into one’s own, and the coming out of the closet, with great teasers and satisfying bedroom antics. I highly recommend this work, and I look forward to more of Kilpatrick’s books.

The Manny Diaries is available through Ravenous Romance, Amazon Kindle, and other fine online retailers.

The Journey's End

My thanks to all of the authors who contributed their time, their thoughts, and/or blogs to the Out of This World Blog Tour. It was a lot of fun, and I know I definitely have a handful of books added to my TBR list.

My thanks again to SFR Brigade members Sandra Stixrude, Linnea Sinclair, Pauline Jones, D. L. Jackson, J. C Hay, Kaye Manro, and Marva Dasef for offering insightful posts and entertaining discussion. It was a great end to the summer!

Please Welcome Guest Author Kaye Manro!

Today, it is my pleasure to have author Kaye Manro here as one of the final stops to the Out of This World Blog Tour, talking about erotic science fiction romance. She has written several sci-fi works, and most recently released her erotic sci-fi romance, Forbidden Love. Take it away, Kaye!

Lovemaking Deep Space Style

One of the questions I asked while doing research for my E-SFR (erotic science fiction romance) the Forbidden Love series, part of which takes place on an enhanced spacecraft was, well, what is sex like in a deep space environment? Since my books feature an advanced cultural society in which the hero’s race has already mastered FTL and hyperspace travel, it wasn’t too much of an imaginative stretch to realize I wanted these stories to have such intricacies as spaceships with artificial gravitation and inertial dampeners.

As far as T’Kon and Maya, the h/h are concerned, the setting for the love scenes in Forbidden Love is about as comfortable as spending time in your own contemporary bedroom. As I mentioned in my SF Lexicon on my website, Inertial Dampeners are mechanisms that prevent the effects of gravitational forces caused by space travel and the acceleration or deceleration created by FTL. Therefore, T’Kon and Maya hardly noticed the changes as they engaged in tantalizing love scenes.

Leaving our creative imagination behind for just a minute, let’s talk about reality. How close are we actually to accomplishing sexual encounters aboard spacecraft? How possible is having sex in zero or micro gravity?

The History Channel featured actress and SFR author Vanna Bonta in an episode called The Universe "Sex in Space."

Ms. Bonta and her husband experimented with her invention, the 2-Suit, in micro-gravity aboard G-FORCE ONE. She created the special suit to see how a couple could perform the sex act while in relative weightlessness. The conclusion, having sex while in zero or micro-gravity would be difficult at best. As fascinating as this was, without the aid of a specially fabricated suit, or a MagLock to a stationary object, it would be nearly impossible.

Even so, in the near future making love with a view of the Earth below may be the ultimate aphrodisiac for space travelers. But, let's think about the implications of space-based sex.

Taking a few ideas from science journalist, Laura Woodmansee, many have wondered what it might be like to make love in space. The passionate couples who book flights to the first space hotel will be more than excited to try zero-g sex, and out-of-this-world sex will be a reality within a decade.

Some people believe space sex will be a frustrating experience and that lovers will give up. Weightless couples will find a way to get together. Sex in space will probably take some practice and hard work at first.

It will happen, and therefore it's a legitimate topic to explore. Sex is a basic part of our nature. It drives love, the expansion of our families, and even our exploration of the unknown. We can't be ashamed of sex. That will prevent us from looking into the risks and possibilities. If we are to create a civilization in space, we need to address the possibilities of sex and reproduction in Earth orbit and beyond. Think about it, the first space babies will be space aliens in some ways. This is more than rules and mission plans. The key to successful sex in space is about managing the micro-gravity environment.

In her nonfiction book, "Sex in Space," Laura Woodmansee, describes several positions that might work, ranging from the modified missionary position to seated, with interlocking Y legs. Props also could come into play, including a shared elastic waistband or tethers to hold one partner to a stable structure, she writes.

We as SFR authors know sex and love scenes in space have been around for several decades. As in other science fiction, we have already created a blueprint and scenario for it to happen.

A FORBIDDEN LOVE EXCERPT:

…Inside the spacecraft living quarters, lying naked in a sleeping berth, Maya gazed around in awe at the interior of the small but spacious ship. It contained smooth, curved, circular fixtures throughout. Soothing, diffused, bluish lighting illuminated the sleeping compartment creating a Zen-like mood and restful hibernating atmosphere. It reminded her of the interior of a giant habitat aquarium. T’Kon told her the ambiance generated a state of mind conducive to deep space flight.

A sliding door sounded with a muffled whoosh as he entered the sleeping compartment. The sight of him caused heat to spread through her. “T’Kon,” she hummed, beckoning him to come to her. “I want to ravish you in every way possible.”

He slipped out of his compression suit and crawled into the berth next to her. “Your presence already does that quite well.” His arms enwrapped her and he brought her to rest atop his body.

She wound her fingers in his hair and ground into him.
His throat rumbled and his body sizzled with the need of
her. She sensed it.

“How about I do this.” She squirmed around and scooted from him. “Turn over,” she demanded in a husky playful voice.

Not moving, he captured her with his dark, ice blue gaze, deliberately rubbing his long leg inside her thighs. “Males initiate the mating pleasures.”

“Oh yeah? For females on my world, that’s not always true.” She slid both hands beneath his body touching the sensitive ridges along his back.

He drew in a quick breath and hissed. “You know about that?” He arched upward giving her hands more space.

“You mean those sweet, receptive, spiny scales along your vertebrae?” He let out another scintillating exhale. “Touching you here...” she gave a gentle pinch to a spiny point, “...intensifies your lovemaking experience, doesn’t it?” She pinched another spine…


Visit Kaye at her blog.
And her website.

Look for book two in the Forbidden series, Forbidden Destiny, coming soon from Red Rose Publishing.

Click here for more information on Forbidden Love.

If you leave a comment today, you will be in the running to win a download of Kaye Manro’s erotic SFR, Forbidden Love. We’ll draw a winner on Tuesday.

PANDORA'S HOPE Release Party Winner

Congratulations Stacey! You have won your choice of a $20.00 Amazon or Ravenous Romance gift certificate. If you do not hear from me within the next 24 hours, please e-mail me at contests@cerebralwriter.com. Thanks for participating!

Until next time, happy reading to all.

Coming Soon....

Mark your calendars--The New Sensuality has a great lineup of SFR and erotic SFR authors coming up this month:

August 14: Sandra Stixrude at Dasef Central
http://mgddasef.blogspot.com/

August 15: Linnea Sinclair at The Cerebral Writer
http://www.cerebralwriter.com/blog.html

August 16: Pauline Jones at Behind the Pallid Mask
http://jchay.com/

August 17: D. L. Jackson at Forbidden Love
http://www.sfr.kayemanro.com/index.htm

August 18: Lisa Lane at Writer's Habitat
http://sandrastixrude.webs.com/apps/blog/

August 19: J. C Hay at Perils of Pauline
http://www.perilouspauline.com/

August 20: Kaye Manro at The New Sensuality
http://newsensuality.blogspot.com/

August 21: Marva Dasef at Backward Momentum
http://backwardmomentum.blogspot.com/

New Release: PANDORA'S HOPE

Captain Nora Bradley, fiancé and First Officer Robert Smith, and crew have developed quite the reputation: their current tactical officer is an astral clone of the one they started with; a race of shape-shifting aliens currently travels the stars as an impostor “Pandora’s Hope”; and everyone is still recovering from the embarrassing and life-changing ship-wide orgy caused by their bout with the “space flu.” Worst of all, though, is that the more Nora tries to plan their wedding, the more Robert gets cold feet....

Now that the ship is back on mission, with a glorified babysitter from Space-Corp on its way, it seems that the ship-wide fun might be forced to an end—but first impressions always prove wrong on Pandora’s Hope, and the new addition to their crew, “Quality Control Officer” Patrice Jocar, might have more in common with her new peers than they think. In this second installment of the Lust in Space series, the crew of Pandora’s Hope explores more exotic intergalactic regions, picking up the most unlikely of refugees and encountering new alien species—while their wild and sexy antics continue. Will Nora and Robert’s relationship survive another excursion into deep space, or will the experience tear them apart for good?

EXCERPT:

Nora and Robert sat together in a soft candlelit glow, enjoying a makeshift picnic on the floor of her room. They shared a bottle of sparkling cider, sipping the tart, bubbly beverage from champagne flutes. Intoxicated not by their drink, but by the presence of one another, they enjoyed the quiet calm of the moment and the feel of their bodies relaxing close together. She wore a revealing red teddy, and Robert couldn’t take his eyes off her supple body.

“You are beautiful,” he said, admiring her.

She finished her glass, then set it aside.

They moved together, kissing passionately. Her body ached for him, and a rush of excitement raced through her as his hands moved to explore every inch of her. He lifted her into his arms, his lips caressing her neck as he moved her to the bed, slowly shedding his clothes.

She closed her eyes, lying back as he began to kiss her body. His lips trailed along the seam of her teddy, then he slid away the lacy material and sampled her with his tongue. She brought her knees up, her body tensing as he teased and tasted her. She let out a light moan, hungry for more, running her fingers through his hair and coaxing him on.

He looked up at her, his hands searching her body. He found her breasts and began to fondle them, breathing heavily against her in his excitement. He built her slowly, his tongue going deep, caressing her gently with broad and eager sweeps, shifting to her clit with soft kisses and driving arcs. As her body tensed, moving toward climax, he teased her with a sudden reprieve, moving instead to caress her thighs with his warm, wet lips.

“I need to feel you inside me!” she whispered, desperate for the release.

An electric rush coursed through her, sending her heart racing and her body breathless as he climbed over her, his lips moving to her breast, then trail¬ing up to her neck. His naked body was hot and ready, his hard erection brushing against her, and she wrapped her legs around him as he moved to enter her. She guided him in, pulling him close, a mix of calm and excitement hitting her as she thrust against him, bringing their bodies together with a satisfied moan. They rocked together, building slowly but eagerly, the feel of their union intensifying as her body went tight and her nails dug into his back.

He began to thrust harder, allowing once again for her pleasure to build. She shifted her body to take him even deeper, and the fire between them began to grow as he hit a spot that caused them both to tense and shake. She anchored her feet behind his back, driving him in even harder. Her body writhed as the release came, and she cried out, each thrust building on the ecstasy of the last.

He held deep inside her, moaning as she continued to thrust her hips. He tensed, and the rapture returned once more as he climaxed, then they both went still, breathless and exhausted.

He pulled away, and then immediately collapsed at her side. “You’re amazing,” he said.

She smiled, feeling warm and relaxed as she lay across the soft picnic blanket. She turned to him and their eyes met. “I’m amazing?”

“Very.”

She breathed deeply, taking in his rich scent as he moved closer to steal another quick kiss.

He wrapped an arm around her and gave a contented sigh.

“I’ve been thinking about the wedding,” she said.

“What about it?” he asked.

“Well....” She paused. “It wouldn’t be too far out of our way for us to make a detour to Haslim space. We could bump up the date, stop through on our way to rendezvous with your new back-up first officer, then pick up our mission from there.”

He nodded, although she could tell he had his reservations. “We could do that.”

“But?” she asked.

“That wouldn’t give us much time to plan,” he said.

She shrugged. “It’s just a thought.”

He nodded the same reserved nod as he had a moment ago. “We’ll think about it.”

Suxie’s voice suddenly crackled over the intercom. “Captain, this is Officer Kasri. We have a situation on the bridge.”

Read more at http://www.ravenousromance.com/fantastica/pandora-s-hope.php

Watch the new trailer:

Release Party Contest!

Pandora's Hope is set for release Thursday, July 29, and to celebrate I've invited the crew to help me give away a $20.00 gift certificate.

Please allow me to introduce you all to Pandora’s Hope veterans Captain Nora Bradley, First Officer Robert Smith, Tactical Officer Suxie Kasri, Navigator Geoffrey Stanton, and all three Locaru—Jim, Buzz, and Bee—as well as two new crewmembers, Quality Control Officer Patrice Jocar and Phoebe the android.

Captain Bradley: It is a pleasure!

New Sensuality: My first question is for anyone who wants to take it. Tell your audience what you think about the public reading about your (sometimes very kinky) sexcapades. Are you ever afraid that people might misidentify you as porn?

Officer Kasri: I’ll take this one. I think it’s important, firstly, to establish that we’re all about the sci-fi. We’re space explorers, and as such—

Navigator Stanton: [interrupting] We do all like to explore more than just space, though!

Captain Bradley: Can we edit this?

First Officer Smith: Leave it in—it’s very candid.

Officer Kasri: The point is that we might be open about our sexual misadventures, but we also happen to be one of the most highly talked about ships in the region: we won the Battle at Omega; we have officers who have invented amazing new uses to our best pieces of technology, we’ve mapped previously uncharted regions of space, and we’ve identified numerous new alien life forms.

New Sensuality: Officer Kasri, what has been your favorite adventure so far on Pandora’s Hope?

Officer Kasri: I would have to say that I most enjoyed encountering the Star Eaters. They were by far the most fascinating—

Captain Bradley: [interrupting] They don’t know about the Star Eaters yet.

Locaru Jim: We be allowed to talk about the new adventures yet?”

Phoebe: Does that mean I don’t get a turn to talk?

New Sensuality: Well, I don’t want any spoilers, but if you want to share a few minor details, we’d love to know.

Phoebe: I join the crew!

First Officer Smith: [under his breath] You do a hell of a lot more than that.

Officer Kasri: [under her breath] To put it mildly.

New Sensuality: I sense some slight hostility, here.

Captain Bradley: They need to get over it.

First Officer Smith: You try being put in a giant habitat by a bunch of solder-brained tin cans, and then you can tell me to get over it.

Phoebe: And a very high-grade solder, at that!

New Sensuality: Let’s shift gears and tell readers a little about our fiancées’ wedding plans. I hear you’ve been talking about exchanging your vows in beautiful Haslim space.

Captain Bradley: You heard right—although Robert gets cold feet and completely freaks me out.

First Officer Smith: At least you don’t get drunk over it, this time.

Captain Bradley: [shrugs] Live and learn.

Locaru Jim: I build the best Locaru adaption yet! People gonna love what I make for Leah!

New Sensuality: Do you feel that the crew works any more cohesively on its second mission?

Captain Bradley: Definitely. I think it takes being with a crew for at least a few good, straight months before you really know how to work with them. We all have our different ways of dealing with a given issue, and that’s something that even as captain I have to respect.

First Officer Smith: I agree.

Navigator Stanton: You also have to factor in the little bit about us being in deep, uncharted space, and how that in itself can take some getting used to.

New Sensuality: Very true, I’m sure.

Officer Jocar: [speaks with dual vocal cords] If I may, I would just like to say how glad I am to be a part of this crew. Space-Corp has these people all wrong. I thought I was jumping into the fire when I accepted the position of Pandora’s Hopes’ new “Quality Control Officer.” Really, Corporate is looking for one good reason to demote Captain Bradley, as the reports from her last mission were quite startling. How differently things can look on file....

New Sensuality: I would like to move on to some questions from our readers, and the contest I’m holding for those who would like to know more about the crew of Pandora’s Hope.

Stop by anytime this week to ask the crew your questions or leave comments. Make sure to leave some way for me to contact you, should you win. One random entrant will win their choice of either a $20.00 Amazon or Ravenous Romance gift certificate. Good luck—and thanks for stopping by!

Review: BLOOD AND SEX: MICHAEL by Angela Cameron

Detective Victoria Tyler is investigating Collins Bay’s new serial killer, one of the city’s vampires. Since they have marked her as a human to be killed or conquered, Tori knows that Michael is her only hope for survival. But she hasn’t spoken to him since the night she tried to kill him....

Blood and Sex, Vol. 1: Michael is a fun, sexy take on the vampire genre. Angela Cameron’s writing style is creative and confident, and reads like a smart mesh of Kim Harrison’s Rachel Morgan series and Mario Puzo’s The Godfather, with strong leads, great character dynamics, and fantastic chemistry.

I had difficulty with some of the character motivations, the heavy use of Italian terms lost me a few times, and I had a hard time keeping up with the many supporting characters. With that said, I really enjoyed the story, and I thought the main characters and dialogue were top-notch. Moreover, the romantic, sensual, and erotic elements to this book are phenomenal and tastefully executed, and I recommend it to all who enjoy a quick, fun read.


Warnings: Story contains light BDSM elements.

Blood and Sex: Michael is available through Ravenous Romance, Amazon, and your local bookstore.

Please Welcome Guest Blogger Angela Cameron!

It is my honor today to have author Angela Cameron here as my guest. Angela is the creative force behind the highly rated erotic vampire series, BLOOD AND SEX. You can read my review of the first book in the series, MICHAEL, here.

What struck me most with Ms. Cameron's writing was her ability to execute the use of BDSM (bondage/submission) so eloquently. The New Sensuality, is all about tasteful, artful erotica, and so I present to you Angela Cameron on writing tasteful, artful BDSM.

Light Bondage: The Vanilla Writer’s Guide to Writing Tasteful BDSM

Okay, so maybe it’s not an entire guide, but I wanted to say a few words about writing BDSM for those who aren’t so fetish savvy. Lisa here was kind enough to let me hijack the blog to do so. (Thanks, Lisa!!!)

Those who’ve read the Blood & Sex series know that the sex comes with a little kink. Actually, in some cases it’s probably a lot of kink, but it’s not done in a way that sends fetish virgins running for the literary hills. As someone who doesn’t read a lot of fetish stories, that’s a fine line to walk. Everyone’s version of “extreme” is different, defined by their life experiences.

So how do you know how much is too much?

And for that matter, how do you know what to write to begin with?

Since I can’t fit a complete guide into one blog post, I’ll give you the ten basics.

1-Research Fetishes - Okay, this may be obvious to some, but I had to do a bit of research to have any idea what I was writing about. I started out in an erotica writer’s group where I read the work of those who write fetish material. I learned from some of the top erotica writer’s, by reading their works and asking questions. I joined a private, small group of people who were open and honest about their adventures, even in front of me—the innocent one in the group.:-) Then, I went even further, interviewing a legal prostitute from another country to find out what makes men tick in the bedroom. Even sixteen years of marriage couldn’t give me the wealth of information she did. Most of it wasn’t even about intercourse, which was eye opening for me. She saw a level of honesty from other women’s husbands that many wives never do. Understanding the psychology and personalities behind sexual preferences is key. You wouldn’t want your hero who should obviously be a dom getting spanked, now would you?

2- Learn About BDSM - Take the research a step further by looking into BDSM. If you’re going to be believable, you need to know what you’re talking about. You may not get technical or need half the information, but you still need to see the big picture to understand your characters’ love lives.

To understand the areas fetishes fall in, take a look Encyclopedia Dramarica's The Basics and The Lingo and More

A sprinkling of the appropriate actions, attitudes and gear can make the story more believable.

3-Consider the Character – Use all that information you gathered and apply it to picking the right flavor. Just as the clothes, car, and fighting style make the hero more rounded, so does their sexual preference. Every character in the series has their own preference, dictated by their personality. It goes with their own subconscious needs.

When writing the Blood & Sex series, it was important to consider who they were to know who liked what. For Michael, it’s about being a bit dominant. There’s a power struggle between him and Tori that goes with their both being powerful individuals in their own right. For Jonas, it’s about a bit-o-bondage that goes back to a childhood connection between pain and love.

4 – Take It Slow - Write the sex scene into the story just like you would any other. Don’t push the character (or the reader) into a fetish. If the first scene throws a reader straight into the deep end of the kink pool, they’re likely to panic. Worse yet, they’ll put the book down and walk away. A nice resolution for this is to make one character inexperienced in that area and let them learn as the reader does.

5- Progress Naturally – It has to be natural. For most characters, that means the first time or three might be vanilla sex. Then, as they trust the partner more, they’d introduce the fetish into the mix. It may be just a small bit at first, maybe holding down the arms. The next time, they might introduce furry handcuffs. And, as time goes on, the preference comes out. The revelation of what the character truly wants is usually the last step, when all emotional issues are resolved.

6- Keep It Simple - There doesn’t have to be a lot of complicated words or gear, just the subtle suggestion of something a little more than just straight sex. Describe what’s happening and nothing more. Don’t get caught up in using the right lingo and ruin it all. If you write the scene from the less experienced partner’s point of view, it’s likely to come out best with inexperienced language.

7- Avoid the Extremes - Most vanilla readers can enjoy a little slap and tickle. They probably won’t understand the intricacies of being ball gagged and whipped without a huge setup.

8-Stay in Love – The sex scenes need to be filled with the understanding of love between the lovers. Each time the reach new territory, there should be a new level of intimacy achieved. For some this will spell more love, for others it will bring forward new issues to deal with.

9 - Don’t Overdo It - It’s not overly done. Their entire stories aren’t about their particular flavor of sex, but it’s definitely an important part of their life and their journey. Michael, for example, exudes dominance. But Jonas keeps his bondage locked in the dungeon. Do what makes sense for that character, and remember that even a dominatrix needs a day job and probably teaches Sunday school.

10—Have Fun! – Start with a kink that appeals to you. Just like writing anything else, if you’re disgusted by bondage, don’t go there. It will show.

So, tell us about your favorite characters. What fetishes do they have? Who’s the best author you’ve seen at writing this type of “tasteful” BDSM? Feel free to post examples.

And if you have any questions, post ‘em here for us to discuss.

For more information on Angela Cameron's works, visit her blog.

New Rave Review!

Natasha Brooks writes in the Las Vegas Examiner: "['One Night Stand'] is a delicious read if you are looking for a sample of an interesting erotic horror filled with vampire gore, sex, and a very twisted ending."

You can read the full review here.

The Cerebral Writer: The Light Age

"The Light Age"
Copyright Lisa Lane

Performed live at Espresso Yourself cafe in Ontario, California.
Guitar and backup vocals: Erin Barker
Bass: Steven West

Now on itunes!

Download The Darkness and the Night: Blood and Coffee, The Darkness and the Night II: Cosmic Orgasm, The Darkness and the Night III: Twins of Darkness and Lust in Space at the Apple app store!

And the Winners Are. . .

... lost in cyber space due to a technical error. If you responded to the blog entry, "Interview with the Vampire Family," please e-mail me at contests *at* cerebralwriter *dot* com.

Thanks! Have a great week!

In Support of eBooks

As a singer and an artist, sometimes I like to unwind through creative outlets other than writing fiction. I put together a pro-eBook video titled after the song that inspired it, "Cut Short."

"Cut Short" features the point of view of a tree that finds it is the only one left standing among a clear-cut forest. This video includes a shortened version of the song. Enjoy--and please feel free to share. Together, we can support global awareness and eBooks.

Writing Mixed-Genre Erotic Romance

How Far is Far Enough … and When has it Gone Too Far?

The art of writing erotica and romance has been taken to several extremes; from eloquent to raunchy, from Austen to Sade, the topics of love, pursuit, and sex appear both in the most beautiful and the most disturbing of samples. The spectrum is wide, but surprisingly there is little that might fit their grey areas. One might write erotic romance, but just how far one takes the “sweet” versus the “erotic” will determine a book’s reception within a given genre. Moreover, elements like kink, BDSM, and even the choice of character gender, can affect market reception and the group of readers to whom a given work will appeal.

When it comes to choosing subgenres, it can be difficult to determine the most appropriate limits for a given work. This becomes particularly significant when one writes mixed-genre erotic romance, when further limits will also determine part of its genre-specific readership. For example, authors of science fiction romance must craft their writing to suit both science fiction, and the type of romance typically enjoyed by readers of science fiction. Granted, sci-fi has a broad variety of readers, so limitations might not seem like that significant of an issue here. Consider, however, my novels, Love in Space and Lust in Space—unique in nature, as they are nearly the same story, written for two very different audiences. Love in Space, a sweet space opera-style romance with not-quite explicit sex, is by far my favorite among my currently available novels, and I think overall it has been the best received. The elements can appeal to just about all fans of both science fiction and romance, and the chemistry between the characters is fun. Lust in Space, Love’s kinky and erotic evil twin, is tons of fun, but it lacks some of the heart found in Love. Could I have written a story that meshed the two, offering equal amounts of experimental kink and heart? I’m not so sure. Even if it were possible, I like having the same story available to two very different audiences (because I like writing for both).

Most authors don’t get such an exceptional chance with a novel; it is one I will likely never see again, either. The question then comes: Which subgenre fits best with what I like to write? I know that I enjoy being eclectic, but I also tend to push limits—often with great results, but sometimes with disastrous ones. I ask myself: Will the erotic romance novels I continue to write cater more to the sweet romance audience or to readers who have enjoyed my kinkier works?

I am currently working on Lust in Space 2: Pandora’s Hope, and it has been interesting to see the effect writing in two extremes has had on me. The story has heart, but it also has a decent amount of explicit sex. I decided to stay as true as possible for fans of the first Lust in Space novel, continuing the exploits of Barkeep Leah and insect-sized Jim, “unicorn” Suxie, and of course Captain and First Officer couple, Nora and Robert, while also making sure the story was fresh and exciting enough to appeal to sci-fi fans who may have read and enjoyed Love. It hasn’t lost all of its kink, although I can’t promise another ship-wide orgy. I think, considering that there will only be one incarnation of this book, I’ve found a good balance.

My question for other authors and readers of mixed-genre erotic romance: Do you consider yourself a niche writer or reader, or do you function across a wide array of subgenres? If you do cross genres, do you find it has a positive or negative impact (or both) your readership?

For Classic Vampire Fans. . . .

Did you enjoy The Lost Boys, back when it came out in the '80s? Check out my blog at Paranormalists, and tell me what you think of the original movie and its sequels.

Sleep all day. Party all night. Never Grow old. Never die. . . .

Shaved Pussy . . . and Other Cliches

She was due, past due, really.
That cat was getting fuzzy beyond control.
She’s nicely trimmed now, a nice, short summer buzz.
And I’m still wincing at the vet bill.

Boy, is your mind in the gutter. Yeah, the shaved pussy is probably the most cliché of the double entendres, but it got you here. Since you’re here, you might as well see some before and after pics:

You might gasp in horror at the site of a shaved pussy, but as strange as it sounds, my kitty loves the cut. She hates being long-haired, she hates being brushed—and she struts around like a kitten whenever she gets the lion cut. Go figure.

Since you stopped by and you've been a good sport, I’m going to share with you my double-entendre confession: I like clichés. I am a vintage sci-fi/horror fan through and through, and I don’t think there’s one overdone concept out there that can’t still be reintroduced in an original and thoughtful way. They take everything that fans love about the space opera genre, but take it all in unexpected or previously unexplored directions. My husband lovingly calls them “fun with clichés.” Strangely, I think that explains my space operas well.

I like to play with words, though. I’m a big reader-response buff, and I will always, no matter what I write, be guilty of either some kind of reminiscent tribute or hiding multiple literary “Easter eggs” for a little more dimension and flavor. I love good literature, and I love just about all genres of sci-fi, but it’s the deep, speculative sci-fi that I enjoy the most—because reading a truly great speculative science fiction novel is a double entendre all its own. The story, or the straightforward and direct storyline, has depth, but the real fun is in reading the story between the lines, the “hidden” story. An author creates this alternate story through symbols, which can come through words with multiple meanings, items of interest, or tone, among numerous other platforms. Word structure, names used, and the tone of a theme can become clues in themselves, when piecing together the messages left by pulp fiction greats, their speculations on the evils of our world and the potential effects humanity has upon itself.

What do you think? What are some of your very favorite science fiction or horror novels? What makes them your favorite?

New Interview and Review

A fun and eclectic reader-reviewer site from New Zealand has begun to review The Darkness and the Night series.

You can read the review for book I, Blood and Coffee here. PaulaZone also posted a fun and thoughtful interview here.

Thanks, Paula!

Interview with Inara LaVey

I'm delighted to have had the opportunity to interview author Inara LaVey, author of the well-received novels Ripping the Bodice and Champagne. Click here to read the New Sensuality review for Ripping the Bodice. Welcome, Inara!

1. You have a very distinct and seasoned voice to your work. How long have you been writing?

Oh jeez, I've been writing since I was old enough to string one syllable words together. I wrote my first epic, The End of the Sun, when I was five. Ahem. (clears throat). "One day the sun came out. The next day the sun did not come out. It was the end of the sun. " Hemingway should be so succinct.

2. I love it! I remember in your interview on Phoebe Jordan’s author guest show, Talk About My Favorite Authors, that you, like charming lead character, Cassandra, in Ripping the Bodice, grew up reading your mother’s vintage bodice rippers. After reading the novel, I couldn’t help but wonder if what other similarities there might be between you and Cassandra. Any you might be willing to share?

Well, first of all my mom would not forgive me if I didn't rectify the misconception that the bodice rippers were hers. They were all mine. I'd leave them in the bathroom (I come from a LONG line of bathroom readers) where she or my sister would pick them up and read 'em. I'd hear lots of giggling and "how the hell do bosoms actually heave?" As far as other similarities between me and Cassandra ... I like chocolate and wine a lot! I used to be a lot more attracted to dramatic qualities in a guy than things like common sense, which is sort of Cassandra-esque. But honestly, she is pretty much a figment of my own active imagination. Okay, I DO like to daydream a lot... but OTHER than that. :)

3. You have an amazing sense of humor in both your dialogue and your prose. I’ve also noticed that you write a variety of genres. Do you apply a similar sense of humor to all of your genres, or are some of your works more playful than others?

I suspect I’m genetically incapable of writing without humor. When I was younger (I’m not saying how much younger) I’d try and write these romantic vignettes, all serious and angsty, not a spec of humor. No fun and none of the vignettes ever made it past a few pages. Okay, my one attempt at Y/A (written when I was a Y/A myself) was fairly lacking in humor, but I was a teenager and took things very seriously. I do think some works are a bit more playful than others since some genres lend themselves to humor more readily, but even my horror tends to fall into the black humor category.

4. What genres do you most enjoy reading these days? What makes a particular work stand out for you?

I am an equal opportunity genre type of gal. I love mysteries, horror, urban fantasy, paranormal, historicals, romances, action/adventure, chicklit (waiting for someone to bitchslap me for using that term), literary fiction (as long as it doesn’t break the basic rules of English and grammar in an attempt to be hip), Y/A…

What makes a book or story stand out for me are several things: humor (not necessary, but it does immediately draw me in and keep me even if other things about the work might be a little weak); believable, sympathetic characters (nothing turns me off more quickly in either a book or movie than having no one to root for); and internal consistency within the story, especially if there are any fantasy or sci-fi elements involved. You can make me believe just about everything if you stay true to the internal logic and rules you’ve established.

5. Who do you consider to be your most notable writing influences?

For mysteries and romantic suspense, definitely Elizabeth Peters. For general ‘oh, how I wish I could write like this’ authors I currently have ‘crushes’ on: Jim Butcher, Barbara Hambly, Charles de Lint, Patricia Briggs, Charlaine Harris, Tanya Huff… there are more, but my brain always fails me when asked questions like this!

6. If your writing were to take off, you were the next longstanding bestseller, and overnight you found yourself filthy rich, what charity would you consider most befitting of your donations, and why?

http://www.cathouse-fcc.org Exotic Feline Breeding Facility/ Feline Conservation Center for one. Preservation and continuation of endangered species is a huge one for me. Also I’d love to donate to existing animal rescue organizations, as well as start a rescue center of my own.

7. I love the idea of opening a rescue center. I one thing you and I share is a passion for animals (with a massive soft spot for cats). I’m guessing another is reading and writing erotic romance, which might be considered guilty pleasures by some. Would you say you have any other guilty pleasure?

I’d say watching really bad movies with friends whilst drinking lots of good wine … except I actually feel no guilt about it at all.

8. A guilt-free guilty pleasure; I like it. How about a harder question: What is your all-time favorite book?

Aieee! I hate this question ‘cause I can never think of one book that stands out above all the rest. There are so many wonderful books that I’ve read and loved over the years for various reasons, I don’t think I can pick just one. It’s like asking me to pick my favorite cat.

9. I can never give a straight answer to that question, either. There are far too many talented writers out there, and choosing a favorite work out of all of them is a difficult one. How about a slightly easier question, then: Every other week, you host a “Ravenous Romancers” chat through UK review site, Un:Bound. For those who might not know about Un:Bound and its Ravenous Romancers, do you want to share a little about it?

Un:Bound is a VERY cool UK review site run by my friend Adele (otherwise known as Hagelrat) and her team of crack website techs and reviewers. She reviewed my murder mystery MURDER FOR HIRE: The Peruvian Pigeon, and we hit it off right away. When my erotic romance RIPPING THE BODICE came out, she decided to give it a go even though she was not into romances at all because she liked my writing. Once I’d paved the way with RtB, she was ripe for romance novel invasion! Bwahahahah!!!!

Ahem. Anyway, she reviewed C. Margery Kempe’s book CHASTITY FLAME (another Ravenous Romance release) and loved it. Then she came up with idea of having a Ravenous Romance day twice a month on Un:Bound and asked me to host it. So I became part of the Un:Bound team, along with some of our more brilliant and personable RR authors, yourself included.  I love my RR gang... The quality and variety of posts have been excellent and the comment threads quite lively. It’s a lot of fun and I hope to get more RR authors to write posts for Ravenous Wednesday!

10. That’s one thing I have enjoyed about the Ravenous Romance group over at Un:Bound. There are a lot of really talented contributors, and we all seem to have similar thoughts on literary style and “prose art.” Those values are so important to me that the motto here at The New Sensuality is “Erotica for the discerning reader.” What, in your opinion as both a reader and a writer of erotic fiction, makes a work not only good, but great? What turns you off?

In order for erotic fiction to work for me, there has to be a believable build of tension between the two main characters. The buildup is often more erotic and more of a turn-on to me than the actual sex scenes (although I have read some smoking hot sex scenes!); the character interaction more interesting than who’s putting what where, and how hard, and how many times. Give me that sexual tension along with sensuality in the foreplay and sex scenes themselves and you’ve got what I consider a great erotic work.

What turns me off is when the sex comes across like a medical exam sans speculum, when too many bodily fluids are shooting, spraying and trickling hither and yon, and when words like ‘cream’ are used to describe female arousal. Like, aren’t there medications for that? Also, if the characters are wooden and I don’t believe the relationship between them, I’m not gonna get turned on by them having sex.

11. Great answer! Now for the bonus question: Why is a raven like a writing desk?

If Lewis Carroll didn’t have an answer for it, neither do I. :)