Stone of Cruento Excerpts

Stone of Cruento reviewed by Simply Romance Yea!

2008-07-22T15:38:00.000-07:00

Stone of Cruento

Charlene Leatherman

Cerridwen Press

May 2008

ISBN: 9781419916984

Fantasy
Order from Cerridwen Press
Synopsis:
Claren Maxwell felt she was misplaced, like she belonged somewhere else. Even as a vampire she was not like the others. Claren didn’t like to kill. She avoided intimacy with human men. It was too dangerous. Claren wanted to fit in. She wanted to be loved and protected. So she dreamed, but the dreams were becoming too real. She dreamt of three men. In real life she would have to choose one, right?
The three men in her dreams materialize. Belgretor, a giant of a man from Cruento, protects her. Daniel is a vampire from Earth who desires her. Jamros is a centaur from Cruento who is drawn to her by destiny. Together the four of them must find a way to stop the destruction of Earth and Cruento.
Can Claren choose between the three men she loves while saving the worlds she inadvertently put in jeopardy?

Lynda of Simply Romance Reviews gives Stone of Cruento the SRR GRADE: A
Vampires, goblins, centaurs….a vastly different alternate reality, that’s what you get from the Stone of Cruento. I loved the depth of the characterization and the story building in this riveting fantasy.
Claren was a vampire but not the same as other vampires. Repeated dreams of three men and love only served to make her desire a love of her own. Though attracted to vampire Daniel, she doesn’t trust him and resists his charm. Her constant companion is Belgretor but she has yet to learn his full potential, and then there is the prophecy.
One plot twist after another with love, sex, intrigue, back stabbing centaurs, you name it this story delivers. Charlene Leatherman weaves this story tighter than a rug and hands us a story that will leave us breathless and hoping for more.
The Stone of Cruento is a great story and so much more. Claren has to juggle the relationship of three totally different beings let alone men while being in the middle of a prophecy she has no idea about. This is just excellent story telling. Don’t hesitate to pick up this exceptional book. I guarantee you won’t be disappointed.

covers

2008-07-22T12:57:00.001-07:00

Failure

2008-06-06T13:47:00.000-07:00

Failure
A few thoughts about failure:There is much to be said for failure. It is more interesting than success. Max BeerbohmThere s no failure except in no longer trying. Elbert HubbardFrom The Internet from unknown sourcesFailure is only a temporary change in direction to set you straight for your next success.Only those who dare to fail greatly can ever achieve greatly.Our business in life is not to succeed, but to continue to fail in good spirits.If there exists no possibility of failure, then victory is meaningless.Remember, no man is a failure who has friends.Experience is simply the name we give our mistakes.Courage is going from failure to failure without losing enthusiasm.The only real failure in life is the failure to try.There are no secrets to success. It is the result of preparation, hard work, and learning from failure.Life’s real failure is when you do not realize how close you were to success when you gave up.Success builds character, failure reveals it.There are no failures - just experiences and your reactions to them.Failure is the tuition you pay for success.A man may fall many times, but he won’t be a failure until he says that someone pushed him.Failure is not falling down but refusing to get up.I have not failed. I’ve just found 10,000 ways that won’t work.Never confuse a single defeat with a final defeat.Failure is the opportunity to begin again more intelligently. Moshe ArensEver tried. Ever failed. No matter. Try Agan. Fail again. Fail better. Samuel BeckettSuccess doesn't come to you . . . you go to it.- Marva CollinsSuccess is not the result of spontaneous combustion. You must first set yourself on fire.- Fred SheroSuccess seems to be largely a matter of hanging on after others have let go.- William FeatherHalf the failures in life arise from pulling in one's horse as he is leaping.- Augustus HareIf you stop every time a dog barks, your road will never end.- Arabian ProverbAnyone who has never made a mistake has never tried anything new. - Albert EinsteinIn order for you to profit from your mistakes, you have to go out and make some.- UnknownSuccess doesn't mean the absence of failures; it means the attainment of ultimate objectives. It means winning the war, not every battle.- Edward BlissFailure is success if we learn from it.- Malcolm ForbesSuccess does not consist in never making mistakes, but in never making them a second time.- George Bernard ShawThe season of failure is the best time for sowing the seeds of success.- Paramahansa YoganandaGet up one more time than you're knocked down.- Peter's Principle of SuccessIf all else fails, immortality can always be assured by spectacular error.- John Kenneth GalbraithWe are not retreating - we are advancing in another direction. - Douglas MacArthur
My favorite and the reason for this blog:
From my close observation of writers, they fall into two groups: 1) those who bleed copiously and visibly at any bad review, and 2) those who bleed copiously and secretly at any bad review. - Isaac Asimov
I recieved my first review of Stone of Cruento. If you would like to read the review here is the link http://goodbadandunread.com/2008/06/01/review-stone-of-cruento-by-charlene-leatherman/#more-5132
My response to the review? I thanked the reviewer for her reviews, it gives me another direction in which to advance, and give me something to learn from. I let you, the reader, know that Stone of Cruento might be something for you to think about. I will get back to writing Vials of Aquilonia all the while making corrections in my writing course.

I have a cover for Stone of Cruento

2008-04-30T12:54:00.000-07:00

I was really worried if they would be able to come up with a cover since a centaur vampiress having a menage with an ogre, a vampire, and a centaur was kind of difficult to imagine. But they did it! I am so jazzed!!!

Stone of Cruento is available at Cerridwen Press

on May 1.

Guess What Happens in 3 Days? Excerpt Rating Hot, Hot Hot

2008-04-28T17:39:00.000-07:00

Guess What Happens in 3 Days?
Stone of Cruento comes out.
CataUniversity at http://catauniversity.com/?p=126 is holding its very first
Novella in a Month - a challenge of writing 25,000 words in the month of May.
I have entered. So I will be blogging about Stone of Cruento and about my progress in the NIAM (initials are mine) Novella In A Month by CataUniversity. Lots of authors will be doing the challenge with me. You should stop by their site and see who is writing up a storm.

Here is an excerpt: Please be advised: This excerpt is Rated Adult. If you are under the age of 18 Please Leave Now!

Claren rolled over and peeked open one eye. Still daylight. Not time to get up. She pulled the pillow over her head and willed herself back to sleep.
Her mind drifted into a place filled with clouds. Soft, comforting clouds. She looked down at herself. She was standing on a cloud. Bare feet, bare legs. Bare everything. Claren reached up and touched her breasts. They were bare as well.
Hmmm. One of those dreams. Nice.
Three dark pillars appeared in the clouds. The pillars became shadows which became men. Three strong confident men striding toward her.
The first man towered over her five-foot-five frame. He must have been at least six foot eight inches. Shoulder length blond hair tumbled around his face as he came toward her. He wore an open vest made of leather. His broad chest and washboard abs called to her. He wore black leather pants that skimmed his corded legs and did nothing to hide his desire for her. Claren wanted to touch him and caress his smooth tan skin. She wanted his muscled arms wrapped around her.
As if reading her mind, the first man pulled her to him. Claren looked up at his face only to have a cloud wisp between them.
Claren sighed. She never got to see her dream lovers’ faces. The giant of a man gently tipped her chin so that her face turned up. Claren felt soft firm lips brush gently against hers. His tongue caressed her lips then sought entrance. Claren opened her mouth slightly. The man invaded her mouth with his tongue, darting in and out, exploring.
His hands moved from her arms to her back to pull her closer. Claren relished the touch of the man’s rough strong hands skimming down her shoulders to her waist then her hips. She wrapped her arms around his neck pressing her body tightly against his.
The man picked her up with one hand under her butt. His fingers massaged and molded her cheeks as he effortlessly held her in place. His fingers moved between her cheeks touching first her tight pucker then her moist center. Claren gasped with pleasure as she felt the man’s fingers dip into her pussy.
Claren wrapped her legs around the man’s narrow waist. She rubbed her clit against the hard leather of the man’s belt. She could feel his other hand expertly loosen his belt and pull the zipper down.
Claren closed her eyes. She felt the man step sideways and kick his trousers away. His erect thick shaft bobbed up and touched sensitive parts making Claren inhale sharply and wiggle closer still.
“You are mine,” the man whispered in her ear.
With a mighty stroke the man claimed her. His penis drove into her pussy with the intensity of demand. He was in control. He owned her. Moving his hips, the man bucked into her ferociously. Claren hung onto his neck feeling the man pistoning far up into her, almost touching her womb. She felt stretched and full and loved the sensation. He reached a hand around and touched her clit with a finger. As he continued to slam into her, the man caressed and pinched the tiny nub bringing wave upon wave of erotic sensation crashing on Claren. She cried out as she slammed her hips onto the man’s shaft demanding more of him as she neared her orgasm. The pleasure waves tsunamied over her as the dam broke. Claren reared her head back as her climax shook her to her very core.
“Now, you are mine,” a second voice declared as Claren felt her limp body being pulled off the first man’s erection. She was effortlessly lifted onto the back of a horse.
Horse?
Claren opened her eyes. She sat on the back of an almost black horse. Liver chestnut. What a strange color to dream. The horse was a dark almost black color with the black and red tail of a liver chestnut. Where the horse’s head and mane would be the torso of a man faced her. Chocolate skin with black and red chest length braids. He held her next to his massive chest in his muscled arms as he swiveled to look at her. Claren again could not see the face clearly but she could make out eyes that pierced her to her soul even through the haze of the clouds. High cheekbones and full sensuous lips were accented by a thin black mustache and beard.
The centaur nearly turned completely around as he grabbed Claren. With one hand he cupped her breast and pulled and twisted her nipples, first one then the other. His other arm wrapped around her shoulders with his hand in her hair. He drew Claren to his mouth. He nipped gently at her lips. Then with a swipe of his tongue he opened her mouth and explored. The centaur’s tongue danced with Claren’s tongue. He darted in and out enticing her tongue to follow.
Claren almost cried out when his hand left her breasts. The centaur’s hand moved lower. Shifting her on his equine back, Claren felt herself tipped back. Fingers touched and caressed her clit. He moved her once again and inserted a finger into her vagina. Curling his finger the centaur moved in gentle circles until he found that special bundle of nerves. Claren’s cries were muffled as the centaur kissed her hard, forcing his tongue into her mouth, bruising her lips. Never pulling out, the centaur continued to fondle the spot at the roof of her pussy. Claren felt wave after wave of ecstasy build. She had never been so high before. She wanted to pull away. She wanted the pleasure to stop. She would go insane if it continued. The centaur held her firm. He moved his mouth to one of her breasts and began sucking the nipple, grazing the tender flesh with his teeth. Still he massaged and pressed and tormented that special spot. Claren threw back her head and screamed and the orgasm broke over her. She could feel the walls of her pussy contract and spasm against the centaur’s finger. Her hips bucked with a mind of their own. As the orgasm slowed, Claren slumped against the chest of the centaur. Her eyes were closed. She was a weak as a doll.
I should wake up now. Claren thought drowsily. Wow, what a dream.
“It’s not over yet, lover,” a third masculine voice spoke.
Claren felt her body taken off the centaur’s back.
No more. I can’t stand any more, even if this is a dream.
“You’re not finished yet. You still have some more orgasms in you. I’m sure I can coax one more out of you. Then we will show you how much more you are capable of. But right now you are mine.”
Claren looked at the man speaking. He was not as tall as the others, perhaps only six foot. He exuded masculinity and sexuality. Claren felt as though she was looking at the model for the statue of David by Michelangelo. This man breathed out desire and inhaled her feminine wants. Claren’s breasts ached for his touch. Her bruised lips wanted to wrap around his shaft. Her drenched pussy wanted to squeeze the life out of him.
“Hmmm, yes, lover. I see that you want more. Come lie down with me.”
Claren sank onto the cloud beneath her feet. The man cradled her in his arm as he kissed her cheeks, her throat and licked at the little dent at the base of her neck. He shifted as he moved to adore her breasts. He inhaled her musky perfume, the perfume of sex and desire. Gently his tongue teased around the reddened nipple. His finger traced the peak of the other breast, coaxing it to attention. The man moved to the other breast and laved the nipple with his tongue. Withdrawing he blew cool breath on each taut bud. Claren shivered with the sensation. Putting both hands on her breasts, the man lightly massaged her globes as he kissed and licked the valley between her breasts and down the line to her belly. Caressing her sides, the man drew his hands down over her thighs. He looked up at Claren and smiled. Pressing tenderly, the man opened her thighs wide, exposing her completely to him.
The man nuzzled his face into her labia, inhaling her sweet aroma. His tongue lapped her fluids easing between the lips. Teasing with his tongue the man stroked her clit and tickled under the tiny hood covering it. Claren moaned and shifted. She put her hands in the man’s wavy brown hair, holding him. Her hips bucked of their own accord. The man kept at his torture. When Claren thought she could stand it no more the man dragged his tongue excruciatingly slowly from her clit down the bit of flesh to her vagina. Striking like a snake the man darted in and out of her entrance. Claren called out, wanting more. Her head tossed back, her eyes crashed closed, Claren wanted him in her.
She felt the tongue leave to be replaced by a finger. She moaned again. She wanted more. The man lifted her hips slightly. Claren opened her eyes to see the man’s penis, engorged, placed at her entrance. With just a touch, the man put the head of his penis at her entrance. The man smiled as he tortured her by pressing only slightly into her. Moving at a pace guaranteed to drive her mad, he entered her then withdrew. Again and again he entered and retreated. Claren wanted to scratch his eyes out. She reached for him, fingers curled into claws.
The man grinned. He pulled almost all the way out then slammed into her. Holding her hips with his hands, he continued to pound into her. Claren matched him thrust for thrust, pushing her hips into the man. Her orgasm picked her up making her hips want to enmesh with his. Panting, exhausted, Claren closed her eyes and collapsed on the cloud beneath her.
The brown haired Adonis lay beside her.
A little more is required. Then you may sleep.
What? No. I’m tired.
Not yet. You are ours. We claim you.
Claim me? No, no, no. This is my dream.
Are you sure?
The brown haired man rolled Claren on top of him. Effortlessly, he picked her up and positioned her on his shaft. Claren’s pussy clenched as she felt the hard flesh pierce her. She started to move her hips forward and back. The brown haired man drew her down to him. He kissed her possessively on the mouth.
Claren felt hands on her butt. Her cheeks were spread. She tried to pull away but the man beneath her held her tightly. A cooling ointment was rubbed into her tight pucker. She squirmed as she felt a single finger press into the ring.
Relax. Don’t fight this. It is inevitable and what you truly want, the man holding her to his chest whispered in her ear.
Claren inhaled and willed her body to stop fighting. It is only a dream, after all.
First one finger then a second thrust into her ass stretching her and lubricating her with the cooling ointment preparing her for what was to come.
Claren gasped in pleasure-pain as the huge cock of the first man pressed against her anus. The man beneath her pulled her mouth to his and kissed her passionately. His other hand pinched her clit, rolling it around in his fingers. Claren moaned and screamed in his mouth as the feelings swept into her body like a tornado. Her focus was her clit when suddenly she felt the harsh thrust of the cock into her ass. Claren lifted her head and screamed. All three of them held still as her body adjusted. Slowly with a rhythm all their own, the men began gliding in and out of her body. As one came into her pussy, the other withdrew from her ass. Claren felt stretched to the limit. The pain lessened as the pleasure intensified. Her orgasm began to build. The flood waters of sensation built and swelled until she thought she might burst. She raised her head to see the centaur shimmer and change into a man. His sleek dark body increased her desire. He pumped his shaft with his hand getting it hard. Coming close the dark man pressed his erection against Claren’s mouth.
Open little one. We must all claim you or all will be lost, the dark man said gently.
Claren frowned. What a strange dream.
Opening her mouth, the dark man slid his penis into her mouth and throat. Claren licked and sucked tasting every inch of the man as his two companions found what they needed in the tight clasp of her body. Claren’s orgasm built again. She wanted more and more of the dark man. Matching the thrusts of the men in her pussy and her ass, she began milking the dark man’s cock moving her head up and down. Her pussy spasmed and quivered with pleasure at the brown haired man’s cock. Her ass pulled and tightened on the blond giant’s shaft. Her mouth sucked as her tongue wrapped itself around and explored the ridges around the glans of the horse-man.
Her men groaned in pleasure.
And Claren immersed herself in them, their cocks, their mouths, their hands, their sounds of pleasure.
She soared higher. Burning hotter than ever before she shattered, her vision graying and then going black as she tumbled into oblivion, a smile on her lips from pleasure too intense for her to handle. Claren floated there in that cottony world of immense pleasure.

Excerpt 1 Stone of Cruento

2008-04-04T17:40:00.000-07:00

Stone of Cruento
Charlene Leatherman
Cerridwen Press

Excerpt of Stone of Cruento (unedited) Release Date May 1, 2008

Claren wanted to leave. The chanting and the color shining from the stone made her uncomfortable. Yet, something deep in the stone called to her. Deep within her belly, the place that held her sex drive and her instinctive drive to exist, to stay alive, ached and yearned for whatever the stone offered. She pushed the curtain aside and stepped toward the stone.
“Claren,” Belgretor and Daniel both said her name at the same time. She jumped as though she was shocked.
“Sorry. Let’s get the stone and get out of here. All of this is creeping me out.”
“Agreed,” Daniel said. “Belgretor, I owe you an apology. Geoffrey is indeed a stupid king.” He turned to Claren. “Geoffrey has evidently succumbed to insanity. He believes that if he opens the stone he will achieve power over all vampires here and throughout the galaxies available thru the portal.”
“Me get stone,” Bel said, pushing the drape out of his way.
Claren inhaled raggedly, expecting the shades to attack. They didn’t move. Neither did the king.
Belgretor stepped past Claren and Daniel.
The portal shimmered as though a stone had been tossed into a pool of water. Circles rippled from the center out. Belgretor, Claren and Daniel turned to the unexpected disturbance.
“Ah, all three of you are together.”
Belgretor turned at the voice. It was a language he knew from long ago. Something familiar about the words. He turned to see a man step through the portal. The ogre was torn between desire to go to the stone and the need to keep Claren from harm. He paused a moment too long.
Jamros read the DNA signatures on the KumPl bands. He tossed the metal mesh into the air. Tiny whirling self-propelled spinners [HW1] darted through the air. Claren held up her arm in defense. The KumPl struck her wrist. Instead of bouncing off, it wrapped around and locked.
Claren heard foreign words then felt a mist fall over her mind as the mesh seemed to penetrate her skin. There was no pain, only a fog that separated her from reality. She watched as the metal straps attached themselves to Daniel’s neck and to Belgretor’s ankle. She observed, detached as though she watched a movie. The man who came through the portal was dark and tall. His black hair was curly and long, with touches of red that caught the light. His eyes were dark and strangely shaped. He was naked and beautifully formed. Claren wanted to go to him and wrap herself around him. She wanted him to be inside her. She wanted to have his babies. He was meant for her and her alone.
This is insane.
She couldn’t move. Strangely, this feels like a good thing. That I can’t move I can’t do what my body tells me to do with that man.
The man uttered words, sounds that Claren did not understand. Yet, she knew what they meant. She had to move. She had to follow the man through the portal.
Claren began moving past the hypnotized vampires. Her body moved of its own accord, following commands she did not understand. She couldn’t turn her head but she could hear the footsteps of Belgretor and Daniel. They too were following the commands. Moving slowly, she and the other two made their way to the portal. Claren left the banquet hall. She faced the portal. Belgretor and Daniel stood beside her facing the portal as well.
The chanting stopped.
Claren felt rather than heard the electric snap. The air shivered.
She heard a moan and a sigh. Then she heard screams. She wanted to run. She couldn’t move. Neither Belgretor nor Daniel moved. Claren could see Daniel’s eyes from where she stood. His eyes shouted with fear, frustration and anger. His eyes screamed at the stranger. Claren couldn’t see Bel’s face or eyes. He stood an inch or two behind her. She guessed his situation was the same. He wore the same weird thing she and Daniel wore. At least that is what she assumed. If he was free, he would have attacked the strange man by now.
Claren studied the dark man who had control of her body. Something familiar. The horse-man in her dream. The chest, the arms look so much like him. Could her dream have been a warning? Claren’s eyes wandered further down. Or a promise?
The man looked over Claren’s shoulder. His eyes widened in terror. He glanced at the ogre then at Claren and Daniel. Taking one more frightened glance at the scene behind them, the man stepped toward the portal.
“By the shield,” Jamros cursed as the screams got louder. “I will not stay in this two-legged hell any longer. Earth will have to take care of itself. Crudak can deal with you three.”

Bel wanted to talk to the stranger, tell the man that preventing him from taking care of the stone and the power that came from it was the worst mistake of the stranger’s life. Bel knew that he could stop the creature of the stone. He could prevent the disaster that hung in the air like spider webs. But he couldn’t move. He couldn’t speak.
Belgretor understood the words the man said. He knew the name Crudak. The man from the portal gave a command to follow him. Try as he might, Bel could not resist the command. He watched as his feet walked into the portal behind Claren and Daniel. Bel’s mind screamed that he belonged where he could stop the stone. He wanted to make sure Claren was safe and if the stone remained where it was, no one would be safe.
As Belgretor put one foot into the swirling portal, a singsong voice touched his ears. The voice sent chills down his spine.
“My beloved, don’t go. I’ve only just begun to play.”

Spring Brings New and Fun Stuff into Our Lives

2008-04-03T15:43:00.000-07:00

Blog April 3, 2008

Spring is showing up.
I know the first day of spring was in March.
But Spring seems to be popping up all over.
Ads on the Internet for flower gardens are springing up.
Babies are being born, kittens are showing up in droves.
Little chicks are hatching.
New TV programs are blossoming.
My favorite catalogues are offering an easier way to grow tomatoes, strawberries, and a greener lawn.
Most of all, my cat has revealed her inner personality.
You see my cat is an alien. She comes from another planet and is saving me from
Invisible Space Alien Vampires.
She jumps up with no warning and scoots up the curtains in pursuit of the little monsters.
She hides under the bed and attacks them on my ankles, saving me from destruction.
She runs and pounces on the invisible critters outside.
And she watches.

Oh, and the most important,
I have a release date for Stone of Cruento May 1, 2008

Excerpts will start appearing here soon.

Are you ready to WIN?

2008-02-29T14:24:00.001-08:00

Are you ready to win an ebook reader? Or downloads of you fantastic romances, including a copy of Prophecy of Vithan? Have you wanted to buy some romances from Cerridwen Press, but haven't got around to it. Now all you have to do is participate in a scavenger hunt and you will be eligible to win downloads of romances from Cerridwen Press.

Starting March 1 through March 15 you will have the opportunity to hunt for a tree icon and for secret words. Go to www.charleneleatherman.com and check out the rules.

Be a winner in the First Annual Cerridwen Spring Giveaway.

FIRST ANNUAL CERRIDWEN SPRING GIVEAWAY

2008-02-24T16:42:00.000-08:00

The Cerridwen Press Spring Contest
READERS!!! BE SURE AND CHECK OUT THIS VERSION OF THE RULES FOR THE FIRST ANNUAL CERRIDWEN SPRING GIVEAWAY. IT CONTAINS THE UPDATED LIST OF THE WEBSITES YOU NEED TO CHECK OUT.
Here are the rules for the First Annual Cerridwen Spring Giveaway:
· The Grand Prize winner must be a United States resident (due to mailing and custom costs, we cannot ship the grand prize out of the country).
· You must be a member of the Cerridwen Chat Yahoo group to participate in this contest. All clues and contest information will be posted on that loop. To subscribe, send a blank email to: cerridwenchat-subscribe@yahoogroups.com
· You cannot share information about the contest with other readers. All participants should act independently.
· Every day, starting on March 1 and ending on March 15, a clue will be posted on the Cerridwen Chat loop. This clue will lead you to a specific web site or blog location. You must find the hidden/special word on that web site or blog. There will be fifteen words to find, one for each day of the contest. The word will be in a special font, something like this so it will stand out and you should be able to see it easily. If you want to be eligible for the grand prize, you have to find these words. Note the word and the location where you found it.
· You also need to find a tree icon and note that location. Beginning on March 1, look for the tree icon on the web site or blog of the participating authors (see the author list at the end of this page). Make a note of the location of the tree icon or blog.
· The contest ends on March 15 at 5 PM. The tree icons and the 'secret words' will be removed from the author locations at that time.
· Assemble the words you've found into a sentence. Send the sentence and the location of the tree icons you found in the following format in the body of an email to GreenBookFriend@yahoo.com.
Sentence: write your sentence here
Location of Secret words:
1st word: http://www.websitename.com/website page.htm
2nd word: http://www.blogorwebname.com/date (if blog)
3rd word:
4th word: and so on ....
Tree Location 1: http://www.websitename.com/websitepage.htm
Tree Location 2: http://www.blogspotname.com
Tree Location 3:
and so on .....
· You will need to find 15 words and 13 trees for a total of 28 entries. Sound like a lot? It is, but the prize is pretty big, too!
· E-mail your response by 5 PM (central standard time) on March 16. No entries will be accepted after that time.
· The grand prize winner will be chosen from those who submit correct responses.
· Winners will be announced on the Cerridwen Chat loop on March 20, the first day of spring, at 5 PM (central time). Winners will also be notified by email.
Prizes
· Grand Prize: A Rocket 1200 Ebook reader with 7 downloads already loaded. A picture of this model is at the end of these rules. Complete instructions will be provided for using the reader and for transferring books to the reader.
THIS IS NOT AN EBOOKWISE ebook reader. You cannot directly download books to the Rocket Ebook reader. In order to use the Rocket Ebook reader, you will need to use GEB Librarian software or the REBlibrarian PC software. Both are available for purchase for a minimal cost ($20-$30).
You will also need a Compact Flash reader/writer device for your PC. These are available at any computer store for approximately $15-$30.
See http://www.chromakinetics.com/REB1200/move.htm for an overview of the process used to transfer content to this reader. We will also provide instructions for device use.
This is a used device. The cover is slightly scratched but the reading screen is clear and unmarred. The device is in good working order. It will be shipped to you with the winning books already loaded and will include instructions for adding new content, a spare rechargeable battery, and a power adapter (to recharge the unit). This device operates for 5-6 hours on a fully charged battery.
· Runner-up: 6 downloaded books, emailed to you
· ..:namespace prefix = v ns = "urn:schemas-microsoft-com:vml" />1st place: 5 downloaded ebooks, emailed to you
· 2nd place: 4 downloaded ebooks, emailed to you
· 3rd place: 3 downloaded ebooks, emailed to you
This contest is sponsored by the authors listed here.
It is not sponsored by Ellora's Cave, Cerridwen Press nor affiliated with that company.
These authors will have a tree icon on their web site or blog for you to find starting on March 1:
Amy Corwin: http://www.amycorwin.com
Charlene Leatherman http://www.charleneleatherman.com
Catherine Berlin http://www.CatherineBerlin.com
Dorothy McFalls http://www.dorothymcfalls.com
J L Wilson http://www.jayellwilson.com
Janet Miller http://www.janetmillerromance.com
Lise Fuller http://lisefuller.com
Liz Jasper http://lizjasper.com
Marianne Stephens http://mariannestephens.net
Ariana Dupre http://melissaa.com
Micqui Miller http://www.micquimiller.com
Vicky Burkholder http://www.vickyburkholder.com
Jude Atkins http://www.judeatkins.com
Jean C. Gordon http://www.JeanCGordon.com
These authors are participating in the Secret Word part of the contest (some authors may be participating in both: tree and word). You will receive a clue by noon on each day to find out where to find the secret word.
Amy Corwin Jenyfer Matthews Liz Jasper
Frances Stockton Mary Ann Chulik Vicky Burkholder
Sam Cheever N.D. Hansen-Hill Eilis Flynn
Terri Thackston Terry Odell Micqui Miller
Karen McCullough Jude Atkins Sharon Horton

Enjoy the hunt!
And let's all look forward to spring!!!

Chance to Win a copy of Prophecy of Vithan

2007-10-16T20:48:00.000-07:00

Prophecy of Vithan is being featured on Stifle the Squeal . I am interviewed as well.
If you leave a comment on the blog you will be entered to win a copy of my novel Prophecy of Vithan.
Stop by and get your chance at winning.

Prophecy of Vithan has its First Review

2007-09-03T21:56:00.000-07:00

Prophecy of Vithan recieved its first review by TwoLipsReviews.
Alisha gave it 5 Kisses.

TwoLipsReviews gives their definition of 5 Kisses as:5 Kisses – Excellent! If my review didn’t have a word number requirement, I’d simply say “READ THIS BOOK- YOU’LL LOVE IT!”

Alisha says about the book:
"Wow, does Ms. Leatherman suck you into to a totally explosive book that kept me on the edge of my seat! The Prophecy of Vithan is one tremendous book with a Star Wars flavor but where the villains are fire-breathing dragons from another dimension. The fantastic setting works really well and I was captivated by it. The Prophecy of Vithan is an absolute must read. "

For the full review visit TwoLipsReviews.

Here is an excerpt: (rated PG13)

Vespasian walked around Morgan, inspecting her as the physician injected her with a counteragent. The physician left.Morgan blinked her eyes as they cleared. Like waking from a low blood alcohol episode, grogginess slowly left her mind and body."Dirty as it is, the pale blue tunic suits you." Vespasian said after Morgan recovered from the drug. "I think I would have chosen lavender for you, to match your eyes. The blue is nice. I particularly like,” Vespasian thumbed Morgan's nipples with both hands until they became hard. "The way it accents your beasts."Morgan tried to pull away. The grav-locks wouldn't let her. She glared at him, hoping he would see the hatred in them."Still a spitfire, I see. I'm glad marriage hasn't softened my Morgan."Morgan tried to shake her head. She was not his. She never would be his. Morgan wanted loose so she could rip his throat out. Instead, all she could do is stand and glare at the monster in front of her.Vespasian smiled at his captive. He placed his finger under Morgan's chin and caressed her jaw line following it to her ear. Morgan closed her eyes. She tried to remove herself from the throne room, mentally. The block placed in her mind by the Psy kept her in the moment. Morgan mouthed a curse at the Regent. He smiled. His finger circled her ear, touching along the nape of her neck. Delicately, the Regent brushed Morgan's braid from her back over her shoulders. He placed the braid over the erect nipple of one breast. His hand gently shifted from her breast to her back. Morgan tensed. Grabbing a handful of cloth, Vespasian ripped the shift off Morgan. The silk tearing from her body pulled and burned on her shoulders and around her arms. Morgan could feel goose bumps rise as her body responded to the change of temperature. Her stomach churned as Vespasian traced the scars on her back with his finger. He pressed into the folds of her skin. She shuddered as the Regent began using his tongue where his fingers had explored."Was that a good one?" Vespasian asked. His hands continued to explore Morgan's body. "Do you enjoy when I do this? Has Len touched you in this manner? Your body tells me much. I see in your eyes, you want to tell me even more." Morgan hated that she couldn't speak. She was glad she couldn't speak. She wanted to tell Vespasian what she thought of him. She knew she would only be beaten for saying what she thought. She did not want to know how long he would beat her this time.Vespasian left his task and walked in front of Morgan. His attitude different, strange. "If you swear, on Sonij honor, not to leave the throne room, I'll remove the grav-locks and the silencer."Morgan nodded. She held her hands to him and lifted her chin, revealing her throat. She had to trust him to remove the restraints and not kill her."Remember, this is an oath on Sonij honor." Vespasian grinned. Morgan sighed heavily. She nodded.The Regent keyed in the codes and removed the restraints. Morgan kept her surprise to her self. Vespasian did not touch her during the removal process. She expected him to fondle her and cause more discomfort for her. He didn't.Morgan rubbed her wrists. She flexed her ankles. She cleared her throat. "What is it with you, Vespasian? Why can't you leave me alone? What do I mean to you? You can have any woman in this system, in this galaxy. Why me?"Vespasian smiled at Morgan. He turned and sauntered to his throne. He whirled and in an exaggerated flounce, he sat. He looked at his hand, studying his immaculately manicured fingernails, before answering. "Do you realize you are the only one who withstood the torture necessary for Vespasian to get off? Oh, he tried other methods. He was a true sadist, through and through. I've inherited his perverse obsession. I don't understand it thoroughly. Other women provide the blood I need to sustain this shape, but it is you I want. Not to kill, to -""You keep referring to Vespasian in the third person. Have you gone over the edge?" Morgan interrupted, hoping to distract Vespasian from his current train of thought.Vespasian leaped from the throne. He grabbed Morgan roughly and kissed her. She pushed with all her might to keep him away. Even with her strength, he held her tightly as he forced his mouth on hers. Morgan's heart raced in horror. He used brute strength, not control on her. The man Vespasian never used his strength alone. He was too insecure. He used control to make her respond. After what seemed an eternity in hell, the Regent released Morgan with a push. He meandered back to the throne."You…you're not Vespasian! Who are you?"

For Another Friend

2007-08-31T20:12:00.000-07:00

Please be sure to read the previous blog by Virgina Gill. It is very important to her, to me, and to a lot of people.

On a lighter note, a friend, an author has a new release today. It will make a great summer read, but be sure to keep the iced tea available cause it's HOT. The author is Lacey Thorn and you can get her book at www.ellorascave.com

Guest Blogger Virginia Gill

2007-08-31T01:12:00.000-07:00

Dear Friends,
What does it take to cure cancer? It takes tens of thousands of runners raising more than $700 million in less than 20 years … and still we aren’t at the finish line! For the past two years I've been speaking routinely at meetings to recruit people to join the Leukemia & Lymphoma Society's (LLS) Team in Training (TnT). Each time I ended by telling those attending that they have incredibly beautiful feet. Why? Because those feet have been putting my prayers for a cure for my husband Bill into motion while I was unable to participate myself.
This summer finds me truly stepping out in faith. Just 24 hours after committing to not only recruiting others, mentoring them through the season, once again joining the team myself and raising money for the LLS as a participant in their Team In Training program we learned Bill had taken a turn for the worse. As my husband spends the next six months undergoing chemotherapy I will be raising funds and training for the Nike Women's Marathon held October 21st in San Francisco. I very much need your help in the form of donations! The minimum I need to raise is $3900...but my goal is to top $5200 ($100 more than I raised last time). Sounds like a lot doesn't it? Broken down it's really not ...at $50 dollars each I need just 91 more donations! Every donation big or small brings us one step closer to cures for leukemia, lymphoma and myeloma and brings hope to the patients and families who are on the front lines in the battle against these diseases.
The Leukemia & Lymphoma Society (LLS) has been a wonderful blessing to Bill and I as he fights leukemia. While we are thankful for the support the LLS has given us we are ever aware that there is as yet no cure for him. Thankfully there are treatments though! These allow for improved quality of life and extra time while the search for cures continues. It's easy to see progress has been made with leukemia, some types have cure rates of 80% or more! For Bill's type the search is really just beginning, the first treatments were approved barely two years ago. The support the LLS provides ranges from connecting newly diagnosed individuals with others who've undergone the same treatments, to assistance with insurance co-pays and even money to pay for things not covered by insurance. The LLS ensures that patients have advocates when navigating the winding halls of cancer treatment. We’ve personally benefited from all of it. Even Team in Training itself has been a wonderful support. Being an "honored teammate" motivated Bill for the first time to really understand what was wrong with him and start fighting for himself. The impact of seeing 97 (local team) other people cry with us over bad news and cheer every small success can't even be described. God has surrounded us with angels...all of whom have gloriously beautiful feet to me! June 22nd I was privileged to share our story as the “inspirational speaker” for Team in Training’s pre-race dinner at the Mayor’s Marathon here in town. It was so hard to stand there talking as Bill lay receiving chemo alone across town. I spent 9 hours the next day waiting at the finish line to cheer for and thank every one of the 1140 runners/walkers. They raised $5.1 million dollars! Together we CAN find cures so that one day no one will have to endure this journey.As I begin what will be the hardest season of my life I ask you to join me in the fight by using the link in this letter to donate online quickly and securely. You will receive a confirmation by email of your donation and I will be notified as soon as you make your donation. The LLS is a 501c3 organization and all donations are tax deductible.
There are no words to tell you how much your donations mean to me, to Bill, to hundreds of thousands fighting blood cancers in this country. I really appreciate your generosity in joining me as I race for a cure! You can learn more about my efforts and make a donation by visiting the following Web site: http://www.active.com/donate/tntvirtual/DarlinGin Mailing checks made out to the Leukemia & Lymphoma Society to me using the enclosed reply envelop works as well! You can follow our progress with Bill's journey in my "Breathe ...Just Breathe" blog at www.mychurch.org/virginia
Thank you!
Virginia
P.S. Please forward this to as many people as you can. Encourage them to donate as well. We'd also cherish your prayers that Bill will be well enough come October to be waiting for me at the finish line in San Francisco. The next fundraising deadline is Oct.12th. Please donate early.

Prophecy of Vithan is now available

2007-08-02T19:28:00.000-07:00

Prophecy of Vithan is now available at http://www.cerridwenpress.com

Here's another excerpt: Rated PG-13

Morgan heard the lock click. She stepped closer to the door, hoping for a chance to escape.
Len landed with a thud on the floor. His back filled with red welts from a beating with a strap.
Morgan kneeled near his head as the door slammed behind him. The lock clicked again. She helped Len turn partially over. She put his head in her lap. His eyes black and blue from being punched. He kept one leg crossed over the other.
"What did they do to you?" Asked Morgan, pushing a strand of blond hair out from Len's eyes.
"I told them I wouldn't have sex with you. They changed my mind." Len said lightly.
Morgan slowly, gently put Len's head on the floor. She stood. She walked carefully to the bed. For the millionth time in the last three days, her world disintegrated. She believed Len loved her. She believed he wanted her. Now, he took a beating to keep from having sex with her. She sat on the bed, idly noticing the softness and the resilience. As a sex slave, the bed was very important for how you felt in the morning. Morgan wondered how she would feel in the morning as an unwanted wife.
"You…you needed to be forced to come here and have sex with me? Am I undesirable?" Morgan stood. She looked at Len. He tried to stand. Morgan didn't offer any help. "Is that why you told me to choose Royce instead of you at the village? You really don't want me? Of course, now it makes sense. You have never wanted me. You've tried to get rid of me from the very beginning. You wanted to set me free the minute we married. You even agreed to the stupid idea of competing for my freedom."
"It was your idea." Len finally found his footing. His hands covered himself.
"To distract you, so I could escape." Morgan said from the bed.
"It worked."
"Why are you covering yourself? I've seen you naked. You're very good looking." Morgan said remembering Len on their wedding night. It seemed years ago.
"I'm…I'm indisposed." Len said weakly.
"You're what?" Morgan asked.
Len blushed. He removed his hands. His source of embarrassment sprang to life.
Morgan covered her mouth with her hand to stifle a giggle.
"They drugged you." Morgan made a statement instead of asking a question.
"A shot. Your father told me how to change the drug to plain water. I haven't had a chance."
My father? The thought flittered through Morgan's mind.
"It's…it's huge." Morgan said, biting her lip.
"And painful." Len said.
Morgan stood and came closer to Len. Len backed up. "You would rather take a beating than have sex, despite that?"
Len shook his head. "Not have sex, have sex with you-"
"That tears it." Morgan interrupted. She gathered her hand into a fist. She reached back, swinging from the floor up. Her fist connected with Len's jaw. He flew backward into the wall through a holographic tapestry. Morgan shook her hand. It hurt. Hopefully his jaw hurt more. She walked toward Len to grab him and slug him again. She may be a slave, but she would not be insulted. Sex was ok, but not with her? She would show him abstinence.

Charlene Leatherman, Prophecy of Vithan by Cerridwen Press, released August 2, 2007Defeating the villain, destroying the monster, delivering the hero, and never breaking a nail. www.charleneleatherman.com

Prophecy of Vithan Excerpt 1

2007-07-23T18:05:00.000-07:00

"Going somewhere?" The man in white, Len Braxton, stood leaning against the door jam, arms crossed over his chest.
Morgan put her hand to her chest.
"Need alcohol." Morgan gasped. "Low blood alcohol level."
"Really? Hildai 37 zeta 845 beta delta 599 unit 2, what is Morgan's blood alcohol level?"
"I prefer Hildai, only. The rest is so pretentious." A mechanical voice said from inside Len's pocket.
"Answer the question, you annoying piece of junk."
"Ninety-eight percent."
"Does she need a drink?" Len asked.
"Only if she wants to forget you, you pompous ass." Hildai said. "Sorry, Morgan. He overwrote my programming."
"Where did you get her?" Morgan demanded.
"Your room. I met the technician there. Very clever getting him out of the way. I'm not clear how you shut down the shield without setting off the alarms."
"I know the codes." Morgan lied. "I'm an escaping Sonij slave. Quite a reward. Are you going to turn me in?"
"No. I'm not interested in rewards. Seems the Royals are having a dinner party tonight. Some bigwig coming and you're to be extra special pretty tonight.” Len looked Morgan up and down. For some reason, Morgan felt self-conscious in her jeans and leather jacket. “I came to escort you to the harem."
"Harem?" Morgan's throat constricted. She tried to keep the alarm out of her voice. She failed.
"Is this fear I see on your face? I thought all female Sonij slaves are comfortable in brothels or harems." Len said sarcastically.
Morgan swung at Len. He stepped out of reach and held his hands in surrender.
"I'm not fighting with you again. I have several badly bruised ribs to mend before I do. If you get nasty, I'll simply put you out." Len pulled a phaser from his pocket.
Morgan shrugged. "Get the med-tech to heal you. You have your disk, don't you?"
"The ribs will heal on their own. Besides, I don't have a disk."
"A Protector without a disk?" Morgan shook head in disbelief. "Tell you what. I'll be good. But,"
"OK," Len interrupted. "Let's go to the harem."
"But," Morgan continued, "First I want to check on Khai. I'm concerned about him."
"No. You were accused of trying to kill him."
"I was exonerated." Morgan said firmly.
"The answer is no. Let's go to the harem." Len said. He waved the phaser in the direction he wanted Morgan to go.
Morgan raised her fists. "Do you know anything about Sonij physiology? We are a strong race. Phaser shot does not affect us as it does others." Morgan lied. "When I reach you, I’ll hammer your ribs. I don't know much about human anatomy. Do the ribs house anything vital?"
"Okay, you win, but I stay with you and the boy at all times." Len agreed.
Morgan lowered her hands. "Call him and ask him to meet me in the armory workout area. I promised him a lesson."
"Call him? Why should I call him? You're linked to him."
"Only in emergencies." Morgan lied. She did not want this man to know she could not touch Khai's mind. "I prefer to give him his privacy."
"Cat told me she interrogated you. Any residual effects, like being unable to link with Khai?" Len asked.
"Unlike you Protectors, I will not invade someone's privacy."
Len looked at Morgan. She couldn't tell if he believed her or not.
"Back against the wall." Len motioned with the phaser. "I want to check for weapons."
"You know I don't have any weapons on me. You searched me before you put me in here."
Len motioned with the phaser again. Morgan sighed. She backed away from the Protector. She put her hands behind her head and spread her legs, her back against the wall. Len pocketed the phaser. He walked to Morgan. He put his hand behind her neck, searching for a knife. Morgan breath came a little quicker. Len stood slightly taller than she did. She could smell the cologne he wore. Len stood close enough for his cheek to brush hers. Morgan closed her eyes to keep from going cross-eyed. Fantasy images of her and Len drifted in her mind. Len edged himself between her legs, forcing her feet wider. Morgan, startled, opened her eyes. The Protector pinned her against the wall, holding her wrists against the back of her neck.
Len leaned in and kissed her on the mouth. Hard. Morgan struggled to get loose. Len tightened his grip on her arms. He kissed her again. Morgan's knees weakened after the second kiss. She wanted to wrap her arms around Len and keep him there. She felt desire rising in her. Butterflies fluttered in her stomach. Her mind swirled with emotion.
With his other hand, Len slipped a black collar around her throat. The collar snapped on.
Rage curled in Morgan's mind, pushing every other emotion. She wanted to scream. She let herself be caught by the mind control of a Protector, so he could put a slave collar on her. Morgan glared at Len.
Morgan saw the look in his eyes. The kiss affected him, too. Len looked visibly shaken. He swallowed and composed himself.
She shut off her emotions. She willed her eyes to blank. He's a Protector, she reminded herself. She wanted nothing to do with Protectors, especially this Protector. Her only concern must be Khai. She needed to talk to him. The broadsword lesson would be good cover.
Gaining control, Len grinned lewdly. He released Morgan and stepped out of punching and kicking range.
"I'm a slave." Morgan said, irritated with the man. "You're a freeman. You could have told me to put on the collar. You could have ordered me to kiss you, or fuck you. Was the kiss enough? Do you want to have sex? You can have me before the guest arrives. I am a Sonij slave. I am used to brothels and harems. Isn't that what you said? Well, Protector, do you want to fuck before I check on Khai, before I'm ordered to pleasure the guests?"
"Knock it off." Len said, angrily, coloring with embarrassment.

“Get your copy of Prophecy of Vithan at www.cerridwenpress.com on August 2!

Charlene Leatherman, Prophecy of Vithan by Cerridwen Press, released August 2, 2007Defeating the villain, destroying the monster, delivering the hero, and never breaking a nail