New Endeavors

This year has been totally awesome. Busy, but awesome. I guess busy is good. I'm paving the way to new and exciting adventures in 2010. One of the changes I plan to make is running my own business. Although not hard, being a single mom is challenging, but not without rewards.

My daughters are on vacation and it really eats at me having to pull my daughters out of bed, in the cold. lol This time of year, I'm basically lazy and the hibernation mode kicks in. Seriously, grocery shopping has been a major production for me because I simply can't stand the cold. I would actually pay someone to do the grocery shopping. I was born and raised in Maryland, just can't stand the cold. I swear, I should have been born in California!

Anyway, I have been wanting to have and run my own business for the past six years. I have a small virtual assistant business, but nothing I can truly rely upon. I have thoroughly weighed the pros and cons of being a business owner. The sole proprietor and LLC I've thoroughly investigated years ago. I would always go towards LLC, and protecting my personal assets. The tax thingy and health insurance taken out of my bi-weekly corporate paycheck are luxuries I've come to know and love. Health insurance is bloody expensive, so this is another con I'm preparing for.

As a business owner, working during the holidays and weekends is necessary, but you know, I really have never had a problem with that. I'm noticing the older I become, the harder it is to roll myself out of bed in the morning to join the rat race, and making someone else rich. I remember when I supported myself solely on my virtual assistant and house cleaning business, I was up every morning at four o'clock sharp, didn't even need an alarm. I was happy, exhilirated, rarely paid a sitter, and dinner was always ready when I picked my babies up from school! Oh, and my house was immaculate!

Anyway, I'm still seeking those amazing feelings, and truly believe folks should strive to do what makes them happiest in life!


Ciao

25 Days of Seasons' Greetings at The Blackraven's Erotic Cafe December 23rd

I'll be one of many guest authors at The Blackraven's Erotic Cafe. Come join us for a possibility to receive a free copy of Her Dark Desires, or other fabulous books by fellow authors. Sit back and enjoy the chat!

http://www.theblackraveneroticcafe.blogspot.com/2009/12/guest-author-in-spotlight-charisma.html






Cheers!

Tuesday December 22nd Interview at Dark Diva Reviews + Contests

I wanted to let everyone know, I will be over at Dark Diva Reviews on Tuesday, December 22nd. Don't be strangers, stop on past and say hello! I'll have a deliciously wicked excerpt for you from Her Dark Desires.

Also, I'm going to hold a contest too! The prize is sterling silver jewelry.
http://ddrreviews.blogspot.com/2009/12/tuesday-teasers-charisma-knight.html.


Okay lovely people, I promise to keep you all up to date. If you have any questions, you know how to contact me.


Blessings  ; )


CK

Two New Contracts

Today has been an awesome day. Sugar and Spice Press contracted Daywalker and The Beast Within! The best part is, they both have the opportunity to go into print because they are over 30,000 words. I'm very excited about this. This couldn't have come at a better time.

This also means crunch time for me. I say that because I'm still going over edits for Soul Seduction. I'm going over everything with a fine toothed comb. Soul Seduction has come such a long way since I first submitted it to Eirelander Publishing. It has taken some time, but it will be worth it's weight in gold once released. Then, there is the prequel, which I have yet to scratch the surface on. That probably will be released this time next year, I predict. By the time I finish writing it, go through the three sets of edits, and it's published, yeah, it will be sometime in September, maybe later. Wow! Well, definitely don't want to rush this year! The prequel will be something to look forward to, and there is the sequel. lol I'm thinking 2011, unless my muse decides to kick things into overdrive!  ha ha

Excerpts will be posted for both stories once I have completed the editing process.


Ciao

An Overwhelming Feeling

I sure hope everyone had an awesome Thanksgiving! Mine was terrific, and it was nice to be around family for a short period of time and have a few days of downtime.

I took a walk in the forbidden valley of carbohydrates; mac and cheese and mashed potatos!! I made a small portion, my aunt made enough to feed a battleship, and my father made a hefty portion as well. Thanksgiving was held at my aunt's, so my father didn't get a chance to fix his mac & cheese. He cooked his Sunday, and naturally wanted me to try some, which I did shamelessly yesterday. ; )

This morning, I've committed myself to yes, oh yes, exercise!!! I'm way overdue for that, and paying the price dearly, since I have goofed off for quite some time! I started some light weights this morning, and when I return home, I will do some cardio and yoga. I need to stop at GNC and pick up a thing of protein powder for my shakes. I've made a commitment and I'm going all the way, because I swear, if I gain any more weight, I'll be forced to buy new jeans, and that's just not an option!! I'll wait until I drop the weight, then I'll go shopping!

Now, I'm starting to worry about my writing. There are several stories I'm working on, plus a few story ideas I have yet to put into motion, so I'm feeling a little overwhelmed. I have to plan, plan, and plan some more. We all know how time passes quickly when we write!

Take care and stay safe.


Ciao

* My interview at Sugar & Spice Press Radio *

Come join me Friday 11/27 at 1 pm EST at Sugar & Spice Press Radio. I'll be chatting it up with Sabrina Luna about my new release, Her Dark Desires. Hope you can make it!

https://blogtalkradio.com/sugar-and-spice-press-radio

"Her Dark Desires" * Now Available *

I'm so excited to announce the release of my first published novella, "Her Dark Desires." Feel free to check it out at Sugar and Spice Press! Let your guard down and take a wild romp on the dark side with Anais and Dremon...

ISBN# 978-1-936110- 46-9

Blurb:

Dremon, a five hundred year old tall, dark, and brooding vampire has been alone far too long. From the moment he laid eyes upon Anais, he read her like an open book. Swearing an oath to claim the sensual goddess, Dremon suddenly realizes she is what he has searched for his entire existence. Her exquisite looks, strong will, and fiery passion intrigues and seduces him all in one breath.

Two different beings from two entirely different worlds quickly discover they have an insatiable thirst of forbidden carnal desires. Together, they delve into the depths of the darkest parts of their souls, discovering they can never truly sate the untamed fire down below.


Excerpt:



“I love your fiery spirit,” Dremon mused, knowing he would piss her off further.

“Stop toying with me, and tell me where the fuck I am, you bastard!”

Dremon was becoming highly aroused as he fed off her emotions. “Hmmm,” he replied. “I will need to chastise that tongue of yours. You naughty little wench, are you trying to get me going?” The bulge in his pants grew along with his need for her. “You’re in my homeland of East Ayrshire, Scotland, my dark jewel.”

“Scotland?” Anais belted out in disbelief. “What the fuck!”

“You have such a delicious vocabulary, wench. Why worry all of a sudden? You have wanted to go to a place far from home, have you not? Dremon asked, his jaw tightening.

“Obviously, you can read thoughts,” Anais snapped. “Naturally, everyone desires to take a vacation, do things they’ve never done—”

“Be something they’ve never been,” Dremon rudely interrupted. “Do things they would never acknowledge, give in to their darkest desires.” His face twisted into a dark, mischievous grin. “Why is it that you humans fight desires that dwell within the deepest parts of your psyche? You know they exist, however, it is forbidden to act upon them.”

“I wish you’d stay the hell out of my mind, Dremon! Anais sneered, walking from within his reach, making her way back to the entrance of the house.

“Don’t even think of escaping, Anais.” Dremon’s eyes burned with warning. “There is nowhere for you to run, nowhere you can hide, beautiful.”

His words struck a chord deep within her. She wanted to challenge this awesome creature. Placing her hands on her hips, and cocking her head, Anais asked, “And what if I were to run, Dremon? What are you going to do to me? You can’t hold me here.”

“You would dare run from me?” he asked, licking his lips. “I’d hunt you like an animal.” His breathing intensified as he approached her once again, backing her into a corner of

the wall. “Once I caught you, I’d fuck you like an animal, without mercy, wench!” Dremon’s nostrils flared, his eyes filling with lust. “Don’t you want to fuck a vampire?” he mused, pressing his hard body against her. “Mmmm, you feel so good.” Dremon fought hard to restrain himself.

A moan escaped Anais’ lips as he cupped her face in both of his large hands, forcing her to look up at him. Her heart thudded hard against her ribcage, and sweat formed upon her brow, her slit becoming increasingly wetter with each passing moment. A vampire, no wonder I’m so deeply attracted to him. “Are you controlling me?” she inquired.

“My sweet, whatever it is you are feeling, it’s all you. I have no desire to make you want me. What would the point be to that?” Dremon pointed out, putting his hands on either side of her body, showing his dominance.

“What now?” she asked huskily, pushing her hips forward, enjoying the hardness of his body. She looked him in the eye briefly before averting her glance to the sitting room. The air around them appeared to crackle with electricity...


Also available at:

http://www.bookstrand.com/product-herdarkdesires-16067-211.html

http://www.allromanceebooks.com/product-herdarkdesires-387932-139.html




Insatiably Yours,


CK

"Her Dark Desires" Release Date 11/21!!

Okay, tomorrow my first contracted piece will be released. I'm excited, very excited. Friends, family, and a few co-workers I have shared my alter-ego with are happy and can't seem to wait for the book to come out.

In the meantime, I'm still writing, editing, and waiting to hear about two other story submissions. My work has just begun. I write because I have much to share with readers. I also write because it cleanses the soul and allows me to breathe life into my characters. I'm enjoying this learning experience of mine, because writing is just that, a learning experience. Edits on "Soul Seduction" have forced me to dig deeper into my characters' heads. Isn't it funny when you write something, then six months later realize you could have done better?


Ciao

Wolf's Obsession Part 2

Melanie discovers life isn't all peaches and cream when they journey back to her parents' home, a place she's avoided for a few years while denying her strong ancestral heritage. Reality bites Melanie in the ass when she suddenly realizes she must share her true identity with Thorne, if they are ever to live out their lives together as mates.

Thorne Cloudfeather is so obsessed with his new lifemate, he momentarily ignores the duties of The Black Claws. The more time he spends with Melanie, the more he realizes there are a few minor details she missed out on when they first met. Their love is ultimately put to the test when Thorne learns of Melanie's true origins...

Part 2 of Wolf's Obsession is now available as a free read at Night Owl Romance.

Part 3 coming soon in mid December.

Goofing Off a Bit

Hello,

This is the first time in a long while since I haven't written anything. I've been online since 3 p.m. today, and in between networking and promos I have been reading a wonderful paperback novel. I have also had a few story ideas come to me that I haven't even bothered writing down. I think before the night is through, I'll add these ideas to my "new story" list. I'm going to write a short and sweet Christmas story about a mysterious dark and brooding stranger who gives a single mom and her children a special Christmas wish. I know there are many single moms out there who may or may not be struggling to make ends meet. Either way, this story is going to be a real heart warmer and something that every single mom can identify with.

Alright, now back to my reading.  ; )

New WIPs and NOR Free Read

Well, I'm currently awaiting word from my publisher about my story "Daywalker." This was submitted on 10/29. I recently submitted another WIP "The Beast Within" a few nights ago.

In the meantime, I have started focusing my attention on two pieces I started weeks ago, "The Ache," and "Just an Ordinary Vampire." I'm also adding a few pages here and there to the prequel of "Soul Seduction."

Within the next week, I will post excerpts of my WIPs.

 Also, I'm submitting Part 2 of Wolf's Obsession this evening to Tammie King of NOR, so keep your eyes peeled for that one. If you read Part 1, you know how Starr and Thorne met and the scorching time they shared together at Club Ravenous. ; )

Part 2 focuses on my heroine's heritage. The further along you read, you will discover there is much more to her than you thought, something that will definitely knock your socks off!  ; ) I have added several more characters to this story, expanding on each of their backgrounds. There is also some heavy danger and action mixed in and shaken up with sizzling animalistic romantic interludes between Thorne and his mate.

Part 3, the conclusion of Wolf's Obsession will be submitted in mid December with such an awesome ending, it will rock your world, and your soul.


Ciao for now.

The Holidays!

I can't believe we are approaching the end of another year. I have actually started my Christmas shopping early this year. I'm starting to get the warm and fuzzies and not feeling melancholy about the holiday seasons approaching. Usually this time of year puts me in a dull gray mood, especially considering when I leave work its dark outside.

I'm already craving egg nogg and sugar cookies. We're just trying to decide if we want an artifical tree or the real thing this year. I've already purchased some red candles and wreaths to decorate my house. See, I'm on the ball this year. I know what your thinking! Thanksgiving hasn't even approached and here I am speaking of Christmas. I enjoy Thanksgiving too! My company gives us the day after off, so that's plenty of time to work off the macaroni and cheese, cranberry sauce, turkey, greens, stuffing, mashed potatoes, and um ummm ummm, sweet potato pie with French vanilla ice cream and Cool Whip topping! Oh Yeah, I'll be wearing my stretch pants Thanksgiving Day!  ; )

Copyright Alliance - Please Read

Hey Everyone,

I've received this email this morning. If you have not signed this letter, please do so before November 16th. It's imperative that our rights aren't trampled upon by those who pirate ebooks and others who steal our work, claiming it for their own.

Dear Artists and Supporters,

On behalf of the Copyright Alliance, I would like to thank you for signing the letter asking President Obama and Vice President Biden to pursue policies that respect the rights of artists.

On November 16, the Copyright Alliance will deliver the letter with each artist's signature to the White House. To date, more than 9,600 artists have already spoken up for their rights by signing the letter.

But, we know that there are more artists in this country who are looking for an opportunity to voice their concern.

Tell your friends that if they want to speak up about the importance of artists' rights, they should sign the letter before November 16th!

Tell all artists to sign the letter at www.copyrightalliance.org/letter.


Thanks,

Lucinda Dugger

Director of Outreach, The Copyright Alliance

"New Book Cover and Title Change"

I'm proud to present my book cover from my contracted story, formally known as "My Heart Still Beats Your Name." The story is now called "Soul Seduction," from Eirelander Publishing. The original long winded title simply cluttered the book cover to no end. "Soul Seduction" is absolutely perfect, considering Veronique and Angelus are soul mates from Eighteenth Century New Orleans. Aren't they a beautiful couple?

I would like to give kudos to a wonderful graphic arts designer and fellow Eirelander author, Rae Lori. Rae, you've done an awesome job girl, I love this cover.

I'm still tackling edits, and it is totally different from writing. Lee, my editor is taking it easy on me. She promises once I learn the basics of editing, things will move smoothly going forward.

Excerpt of Soul Seduction:

Patience is a virtue—especially if you’re waiting for your soul mate’s rebirth.


Vampire Angelus Cronen loved, lusted for and inevitably lost his true soul mate over two centuries ago. She was the beautiful slave, Vivienne, who set his body on fire and branded her name on his soul. He was told to have patience during the long years that separated him from her resurrection. His lust only grew to have her in his arms again. His dark soul's deepest desire was to bring her spirit once more under his control.


First he has to conquer the dark side of his spirit, the beast within who can and will destroy his soul mate with the least provocation.


Seduction can lead him to a love meant to last an eternity or cause him to murder her.




Ciao

New Contract and other Tidbits

Last night, upon checking my email, I discovered Sugar and Spice Press offered me a contract for my story, "Her Dark Desires." It hasn't even been a full month since I completed and sent the manuscript to them. I'm happy they enjoyed my story and looking forward to becoming multi published.

The title to my story from Eirelander Publishing has been changed from "My Heart Still Beats Your Name" to "Soul Seduction." The title was too long, and quite a challenge to fit on the book cover! Soul Seduction is a good fit, since my hero is a vampire and the heroine is a reincarnation of his soul mate from 18th Century New Orleans.

We are in the process of editing this story, and I must say it is kicking me in the butt! I've stepped away from my computer so many times this morning; I'm discovering I'm on my fifth cup of coffee. Anyway, this will be quite a learning experience for me. I just need to take a deep breath, clear my mind, and continue pursuing my dream. ; )

This Path of Life

Have you ever become so caught up in life, trying to achieve so much that you suddenly take for granted the things you already have? Walking down the path of life, do you ever stop and turn around, remembering where you were in life three or four years ago?

Do you complain because you feel as though things aren't happening fast enough for you, even though you are putting your heart and soul into whatever it is you seek to accomplish?

I'm the first to admit, I sometimes take for granted accomplishments I've made so far in this life while striving to achieve more. I need to remember to stop and be thankful for what I already have such as my health, my job, a roof over my head, clothes on my back, and food upon my table.

My children, I never take them for granted. I thank God for them every moment I'm with them and the fact that they are healthy. Honestly, I don't know what I would be doing if I had no children. I probably would be running around somewhere getting into so much trouble. ; )

Anyway, I just needed to post this. I'm blessed and thankful for all that I have in life.



Ciao

Excerpt of Wolf's Obsession

The man with the dangerous eyes mesmerized her. Starr noticed him moments before stepping upon the stage, although she pretended not to. She loved dancing, but put on an especially seductive show for him, since he had paid her a visit the evening before. She tried her best to break free from her customers; the couple she entertained often. They continued buying drinks, eventually buying her out for the evening, unfortunately. She observed his tense facial features as the awesome stranger waited for her in vain until the bar closed. She could have sworn the handsome man was angry, however, something inside her knew he would return for her.

He spoke to her with his eyes, searching, controlling. From what she could see, he wore a black short-sleeved shirt, and possessed expensive tribal tattoos with a wolf’s head on a medicine shield around his bicep. His features were sharp, exquisite, as though chiseled from marble. His high cheekbones and hooked nose proudly announced his Native American heritage. He was completely bald and clean-shaven, with the exception of a small patch of hair along the cleft of his chin. His ears and nose were pierced with small golden hoops, and his large fingers sported gold bands, displaying exquisite tribal designs.

Wolf's Obsession will be available in Mid to Late October 2009 as a Free Read From Night Owl Romance.

Still of the Night

He takes my nipples between his fingers and thumbs, squeezing gently at first, then a bit harder. Pushing the silk material apart arranging it so it falls loosely over my breasts, he gently pulls my hair. My belly button, nipples, and neatly shaven cunt are exposed to his view, making him hard as steel, especially since it is his black shirt I'm wearing. This makes him feel as though I'm totally his.

"Will you allow me to blindfold you love?" His eyes are dark, questioning, then they harden as his hand glides over my neck, down to my breasts again, over my stomach, and down further....I ache with intense need, as moisture pools between my thighs. "Do you trust me?" he asks, backing me against the wall, pinning me there as he massages my clit, then he sticks a finger into my creamy pussy. Moonlight filters in through the Venetian blinds, allowing me to see his incisors elongate, and his eyes appear to glow...Fuck, he is hard, so hard for me......

My New Website

Hello Folks,

I have just completed a new website, feel free to stop by and sign my guestbook, read an excerpt of Wolf's Obsession or hang out with me at my forum. Yes, I'm like a little kid with a new toy now. ; )


Ciao

http://charismaknight.webs.com

Eirelander's New Website!

Eirelander Publishing has an awesome new website. It is smoother, easier to navigate, and a forum has been included. Drop by and say "hi" folks!

Lee, you did an awesome job!

http://www.eirelander-publishing.com/

Happy Labor Day

I'm thoroughly enjoying this long weekend, as it allows me to spend more time with my girls, and to finish a few odds and ends around the house. It is cloudy outside, so I'm really wanting to just get underneath a quilt and relax.

As I look outside, I'm noticing there is not one empty spot on the parking lot. I guess everyone attended barbecues during the weekend. It makes complete sense. You need a recovery day after a busy weekend with friends and family!

As far as writing is concerned, I have added some words to a few of my manuscripts this weekend. Saturday, I started a short story, now consisting of 5,174 words. I'm taking my time with all my works in progress. There are instances when I feel I can't write fast enough, and there have been times when I have actually deleted some of my story to spin it in a totally different direction.

The ole ball and chain (my laptop) accompanied me to family members' houses this weekend. My mother actually told me not to fire up my laptop at her house, and to talk with folks. LOL I never completely ignore anyone. I can write and talk at the same time, although it can be rather frustrating. Eventually, I found a small corner and started working on my latest piece. Is writing an addiction? Do any of you experience this as well?

Prequel to "My Heart Still Beats Your Name"

Ahh, Friday! I’m currently kicking back and enjoying the end of the week. I plan to add a few more words to both manuscripts before the evening ends.

The prequel to “My Heart Still Beats Your Name” is now flowing smoothly. For some reason a few weeks ago, I could not find the words for this story. Ideas were clear in my mind; however, the words were not flowing at all. I know this one will take a few months or so to complete. I’m currently at 2,000 words, and believe I have mastered working with several different projects at once. As ideas present themselves, I title and save them to a folder on my computer. Research is also a requirement for this read since it is set in the 18th century.

I truly believe this will be an awesome read! The prequel and sequel (yes, I'm definitely creating a trilogy) will extend well past the 20,005 mark of the first Novella. Once all works in progress have been released, they will make for an explosive trilogy! I have included a few twisted plots that will not only intrigue readers with the history of this family; it will leave them wanting to learn more of each character whom I have placed on special pedestals. (They are very special to me) The sequel will be awesome; however, I’m planning to leave an opening for a fourth installment for future generations of the family. Yeaahhhh! That remains to be seen. ; )

Spirit Walker Part 1 - A Free Read

Spirit Walker will soon be found on http://www.longandshortreviews.com/WC/index.htm. To accomodate the site, it has been reduced from 1,666 words to 1,000 words, which I have saved to a folder on my computer.

New Stories

Hello All. Originally, I wanted to create a short story to post to this blog, for entertainment purposes. Well, this story has blossomed into 3,392 words over the weekend. I'm excited, and have decided to walk away from the computer. After updating my blog, I'm closing out and going to bed! If not, I will remain awake until the crack of dawn. Everything is flowing naturally, and I find that absolutely awesome!

I'm still seeking a free read for my blog, hopefully it will flow like the story I'm working on. If I keep this pace up, it is quite possible for me to submit this by the end of the month. At least, that is the goal.

I'm also fighting the urge not to brew coffee.

Goodnight!

Another Story Brewing In My Head

An excerpt of "My Heart Still Beats Your Name," will arrive on Eirelander Publishing's site when ready. My editor informs me it will actually be sent to edits in September, which is not too far off.

The prequel is in the making. Unfortunately, it isn't flowing as smoothly as I thought it would. Although I have a page, it seems as though I will need to rearrange a few things. Something appears to be missing.

Anyway, another story howls in my head like a wolf howling at the moon! I have actually written a page, have the title, plot, setting, and characters. This was supposed to be a short creation for my blog for entertainment purposes, however, it appears as though this story is taking on a life of it's own. My muse is working overtime tonight, filling my head with many thoughts. I feel like a kid in a candy store. Writing this may take several months, however, at the rate I'm going it may only take a few weeks if I write five or more pages per day.

Off to brew a pot of coffee....

Awaiting Editing

I have not had a chance to update my blog in quite a few days. I have completed the polished version of the manuscript for "My Heart Still Beats Your Name." My editor, Lee, of Eirelander Publishing will notify me of any necessary changes. I'm eager to make things happen; after all, this will be my first published book. You may see my author bio here: http://eirelanderpublishing.com/CharismaKnight.aspx

What I enjoy most about writing is creating my outline of characters, setting, and focusing on the plot. When I have everything on paper, or in Word I let things marinate for a day or so. Once my words start to flow, it seems as though my muse is working overtime! This is when I'm awake until 2 a.m. because my characters refuse to let me rest!

"My Heart Still Beats Your Name"

Hello, welcome to my blog. I'm Charisma Knight, author of "My Heart Still Beats Your Name.” This book is due to be published in March 2010 through Eirelander Publishing, with a prequel and sequel to follow!

This is a wonderful opportunity to share my creative and adventurous side with readers of the Paranormal Erotic Genres. As a teenager, I was always attracted to vampires, fantasy worlds, and reincarnation. Watching these movies caused me to drift off into my fantasy world, wondering what occurred after that eternal kiss!
In my world, these beautiful, exotic creatures exist in The Realm of the Beyond, penetrating our world when called upon. Some struggle between good and evil, while others helplessly give into the darkness, forever damning their immortal soul. Last, but not least, some possess a light within, willing to "greet the dawn" before harming another...These are my Immortal Warriors