It’s hot as heck here in the Sunshine State and I’m preparing for the upcoming RWA conference in Orlando. I’m not doing a great job of juggling priorities but I’m determined to get through with everything! I don’t know about you, but this month marks the halfway point in the year…I’m still wondering where the time went. I’ve been too busy to really enjoy the outdoors the way I should. However, I did get a little bit of sun time on my work-vacation so I’m not a pasty white color anymore.

I still can’t believe Nationals is just around the corner. I’m really looking forward to seeing my friends and peers at the Romance Writers of America conference. It’s one of the best parts of the year so I usually leave more inspired! The energy is indescribable because you just absorb it…a drug that keeps the creativity pumping through you for at least a few more months afterward. This is the time where I meet or reconnect with editors and this is the time I am reminded that I can’t stop writing. There’s so many stories I want to tell so this event is just the kick in the pants I need to keep at it.

Well, my Smashwords experiment is reaching a new readership and I’m ecstatic about this. Writing is hard enough but when it also entails promotional and marketing efforts, it’s a very time consuming process–but it must be done. With this new promo venture, I am reaching a wider demographic and I’m excited there’s so many people willing to give my writing a chance. The free reads are a hit and I feel good that those stories are available to the public outside of my own website.

Speaking of which, I just re-designed the cover of Sonnet Seduction which was a Cassidy Kent free read. It’s a story I totally adore because it’s got a connection to Pride & Prejudice…I’m sure you all know, I am a big fan of Austen. I’ve read the book many times and watched every movie take on this love story. In 2007, my writing partner and I were able to incorporate this love of the story into our free read. It’s one of my favorite (hummm, I suppose all of them are–LOL) and I hope you’ll enjoy it! I have the PDF available for DOWNLOAD NOW. If you would like this story in another format for your eReader, you can go to Smashwords to download them.

SONNET SEDUCTION

12th grade English teacher, Harper Alcott, has her hands full this Valentine’s Day. Between planning the school dance, verbally sparring with her colleague Tyler Finleah, and receiving the mysterious sonnets from a secret admirer, she has about all she can take. When Harper finds Mr. Darcy to her Elizabeth Bennet at the masquerade costume ball, things take a turn for the sexy.

Once again, enjoy the beautiful weather! Spend it with love ones because time is precious and any memories made is a cherished moment you’ll want to carry with you….

Happy Summer!

It’s officially summer–but not for me. I’ve been locked indoors and when I’m not there, I’m frantically writing and  doing design work at my favorite cafe, Austin’s Coffee. The  owners of this awesome place are lovely folks who make me feel verra special. Their coffees are organic and everything they have is Fair Trade. They even roast their beans there!  I think it adds that sense of earthiness and intimacy that makes you want to return…often. The reason I love it so much is that whenever I’m writing there, my creative juices flow easily. The environment is very conducive to productivity. Frequenting there has allowed me to meet many interesting people with amazing stories. It’s close enough to the private college and surrounded by the beautiful section of shops in Winter Park. I’m so glad I found this place!

As a writer, it’s important to find a place to help spark your creativity. Even though I love home offices, you still need to go out and soak in those wonderful positive energies. Fresh air is an added bonus during this season. I know I haven’t spent as much time writing on my deadline as I should but now that I’m re-arranging my schedule, I’m going to make it happen by no later than August. Then, I’ll be picking back up on my contemporary set in Italy and tackle a full-length category romance. I’ve always dreamed of writing for Harlequin so I thought I’d give it a try. I say we should always try something new, right?

Well, July is going to be a busy month but I’m not going to think about it too much. Between RWA National conference, guest speaker panel engagements,  and booksignings… I’m going to figure out when I’ll have time for a life. But this is still June and I’ll soon be packing for a trip. I should be back the day before my speaking engagement and booksigning. Yes, I love cutting it close. Seems like the year is picking up speed and I’m just going along for the ride.

Hope you have plenty of time for sunshine and beaches this month! I know with the whole oil spill woes in the news, it may be cause for hesitation… but I urge everyone to take those planned trips. Enjoy the natural beauty and hopefully all these issues will be resolved pronto.

Until next time,

It’s fast approaching summer  and already visions of  lounging at the beach is filling my head. I love the smell of the ocean, the sand cushioning my feet, the sun warming my skin…It’s also a time for family and friends and a great way to relax and enjoy the tranquility. I usually love tanning, napping, and reading but this year there will be more writing than anything else. I foresee a lot of opportunities to lug my laptop around and make the most of the weather while still meeting deadlines.

I’ve decided to have a fun contest that involves giving away a gift box with a copy of my friend, Karin Harlow’s new book ENEMY LOVER. You see, this book is really unique in that  Karin approached me at a conference a year ago to tell me her heroine wanted to be called, you guessed it, Jax Cassidy. Of course, I gave her my blessing to use my name, hence this character will launch her new L.O.S.T. series. It’s a sexy paranormal and is already garnering rave reviews. I have to smile every time I get a google alert because it pulls up details on the book and on the real person. I am honored that I was chosen, so thanks Karin for thinking of me! More details on the contest to come….

May is the month I start getting into shape. Since the terrible floods that hit Nashville, our national RWA conference was quickly moved to Orlando this July so I’m beginning preparations for attending locally. Unfortunately, I’m not doing the Literacy for Life book signing this year, but I’ll still be there to support my fellow authors. It’s a great way to give back to the community so I hope there’s a good turnout. I’m excited to see my friends again and I hope to share a lot of photos of the conference which will be posted on my facebook. There’s nothing like spending time with intelligent, funloving, and kind souls with the same views on romance. I always walk away from conferences feeling invigorated and inspired.

Oh, if you haven’t noticed, my special contemporary eBook release of DEVIL’S HEART is available through Smashwords and the Kindle edition is also available on Amazon now. I’ve got an excerpt up, so go check it out. For the awesome price of $1.50, it’s a fun short read and brings the lush countryside of Ireland to you. I really enjoyed writing it and it’s one of my favorite little shorts.

Well, I’ve got a lot of writing to catch up on…so don’t let me stop you from enjoying the beautiful weather!

XOXO,

It’s a hot, sunny April and I predict a lot of writing poolside with a tropical drink in my hand. This month is tax season (yuck!) and I tend to cringe from my lack of organizational skills when it comes to sorting through my files and receipts. I always try to keep everything in one place but with the traveling and moving, it’s been harder to keep everything organized when my life is in a suitcase or storage. Hopefully, I’ll see a big return this year but I won’t hold my breathe.

I know you’re probably anxious about waiting for summer to arrive but it’s going to arrive here before you know it. As for me, I have lots of plans which includes heading to the beach, writing retreat, maybe a conference and writing my fingers off. Speaking of which, my paranormal proposal is sitting on top of  the editor’s desks and waiting to be read. I’m just biting my nails while I wait on their responses. It’s always nerve-wracking during the wait period. The economy has definitely slowed down the buying process in New York so I can only be patient while they get through the submissions. Right now I’m diligently working on a contemporary proposal and then I’ll tackle a full manuscript and a sexy novella in the next few months. I forseee a lot of wine and chocolates in my future–Wish me luck!

If you’re going to be in the Orlando area, I’m happy to announce that I’m doing a group signing at Borders in Altamonte Springs, Florida in the Altamonte Mall on May 8, 2010. If you can make it, please stop by and say HELLO. I’m trying to figure out what kind of promotional items and prize I’ll giveaway at the event. Feel free to pass this bit of news around.

Looks like I’ll be living in the writing cave for a while so if I’m late to post in May, please forgive me. Life has been very busy of late so I’m not as active online as I normally am. Perhaps next month will be more entertaining….

Take care,

It’s already mid-March and 2010 seems to be flying by. I’ve been busy working on proposals and coming up with ideas for a short paranormal in between editing.

Even with all the writing, one of the changes I’ve made is moving my blog in-house instead of through Blogger so hopefully this is convenient for my readers.

I have such a full plate right now and it’s mostly because I’m planning ahead. I hope you’ve had fun celebrating St. Patrick’s Day and enjoying the sun…yes, it’s finally shown up. It’s about time the whether has warmed up and I’m going to have to think up another cool contest soon…

Please forgive me if I’m late on my monthly updates, it’s only because I’m buried in the writing cave. It’s also because I’m working hard to get another release out soon…

Until next time,

HAPPY CHINESE NEW YEARS!

This is one of my favorite holidays and it’s tradition to start the new year  off with a traditional feast with lively festivities. Since my 2010 starts this year on February 14th, there’s two reasons to celebrate!

This month I’ve been busy working on my paranormal proposal that’s on it’s way out to editors. Hopefully we’ll have some exciting news to share in the coming months. I’ve also spent time on a  mini blog tour with stops at  places such as author Lydia Storm’s blog, Dark & Stormy Romantic Suspense. I also got to discuss my favorite place: Paris. And I was recently interviewed by Greta Wheeler on her fabulous review site: I Do Not Want To Wait, I Want The Book Now .

Thank you readers for entering my January contest and I’m happy to announce this month’s winner of the surprise gift box:

CONGRATULATIONS LIZ S! I’m going to be sending your prize to you shortly.

Now that I’ve gotten the first proposal done, I’m moving on to my Italian contemporary romance and going down the list of projects afterward. I have a feeling it’s going to be a productive year! I’m also happy to announce that I’ve written a FREE READ just for my readers. Every year Romance Divas offers a Valentine’s Day Free Read. This project is an eBook challenge we made with our members to provide free reads from published and unpublished authors. There’s some awesome stories that are available and in various heat levels and genres so make sure you take advantage of this event.

I’m not going to lie, I didn’t have a chance to write my story UNIHIBITED until the last moment due to deadlines but I was rushed on the editing to get it up on time, which means the earlier version may have a few errors and typos. I’ve since fixed them (hopefully caught them all) so please let me know if you enjoyed the short story.

UNINHIBITED is about a passionate chance encounter between two strangers at an art show that turns into more than they bargained for. Lucian offers her one night of pleasure with no strings attached, but Kennedy discovers one night isn’t enough to satiate her desires for him.

When she musters up the nerve, can he accept the new terms her heart has set for him?

I loved writing this story and it’s a super HOT read so make sure you’ve got plenty of water to cool you down. I hope you’ll get a good taste of my writing sample and if you want more, please browse my Books page or download some other free reads I have on this website.

I hope you enjoy the wonderful month of February that, in my mind, is the most romantic one of all! Remember that you can still sprinkle a little bit of romance all year round but this Valentine’s, please tell your loved ones how much they mean to you!

Peace & Love,

HAPPY NEW YEARS!

This 2010 is starting off very well for me and I’ve been keeping busy trying to get some projects out the door. I’m still behind schedule but excited about what this year has in store for me. Right now, I still can’t believe my novella BRUSH STROKES will be released Sunday, January 10th! So far I’ve gotten a few favorable reviews trickling in from You Gotta Read Reviews, Romance Junkies, and Coffee Time Romance Reviews. I’m so happy these reviewers enjoyed my story and I’m quite proud of it!

Another awesome news made it my way as well…Most of my friends know that I dabble in graphic design and create covers for a few publishers. I recently discovered that I had won an Ariana award for a book cover design I did for Awe-Struck Publishing. It’s really an honor. I haven’t tried submitting any of my covers in the past but I must thank the author and publisher for submitting it. Looks like we all won.

I know I promised a contest and I’ll deliver. December was rather hectic with moving, deadlines, and unexpected life challenges so I didn’t get a chance to do a lot of things I wanted to. So this month’s contest will be super spiffy for one lucky winner! I will only tell you that the winner will also win a signed printed/bound ARC of BRUSH STROKES, a nice piece of original art, and a chance to have their first name used as a character in one of my future projects. I would love for the winner to send me a photo of them posing with the prize so I can post up…hint, hint.

How to enter and other stuff:

* Purchase my eBook BRUSH STROKES when it’s released and email me at jaxcassidy @ gmail.com (no spaces in the email) to let me know you did it and I’ll put your name in the drawing twice! I’m trusting you on this!

* If you have purchased any of my previous releases (even under Cassidy Kent) email me and let me know which one and what character(s) you loved most and I’ll add you in the drawing.

* This contest will close at the end of day on January 31, 2010. One lucky winner will be randomly chosen and I’ll announce who they are the first week in February.

NOTE: This prize applies to any winner in the US. However, an international winner will receive a gift certificate to Amazon along with 5 eBooks of any stories from my backlist.

I’m sure everyone is still recovering from all the holiday festivities and hoping the new year has started off with a happy bang! As always, thank you for visiting my website, blog, and for interacting with me on my social networks. I cannot thank you enough for your support!

All my best,

Fall is in full swing now that one of the most exciting pumpkin carving holidays has just passed, thus marking the beginning of another cozy and inspiring season. First off, let me just say how excited I am to announce my recent sale to Amber Quill Press. BRUSH STROKES, my sensual contemporary will be released in eBook the weekend of January 17, 2010! I can’t believe I’ll have something published at the beginning of the New Year—what a wonderful reason to celebrate!

BRUSH STROKES

For Sage, attending the Parisian sex club, Plaisirs Sombres, was the ultimate fantasy. So when the conservative gallery assistant is cloaked behind the velvet mask, she never expected to be the object of the club owner’s desire. Spurred on by D.S. Gregoire’s erotic and sensual brush strokes of the exclusive club, she gives into a brief liaison that leaves her breathless and wanting.

For Damien, known to the art world as D.S. Gregoire, his art has always been an adrenaline rush. But when an exotic and mysteriously uninhibited ‘sex club virgin’ enters his establishment, he is willing to break his club rules for another taste of the dark pleasures she brings him.

This story is very dear to me because it gave me a chance to revisit Paris. I was able to draw in the exoticism of the city while incorporating a lot of research to make the setting believable. During the time I wrote this, I had come across a very interesting book called Naughty Paris Guide and got a chance to interview the author, Heather Stimmler-Hall. She had written an amazing book that captured the sensuality of the City of Light and when I came across a piece on the exclusive sex clubs for the sophisticated and wealthy, I had to write about it. Of course, it’s got my own spin and this story is more of a love story than an erotic short…but I was also able to tie in my love of art. I think that writing short stories is more difficult because you have to make every little detail count. I hope you’ll enjoy my characters Sage and Damien as much as I loved writing them. Two different people but with a common interest that could only add to their passion.

Oh, I’ve got an exciting contest in the works but you’ll have to wait a bit longer. Once I get it all together, I’ll be posting a photo and breakdown of what’s going into the giveaway on my BLOG Tuesday, December 1st. All you have to do is comment with your email addy and you’ll be automatically added for a chance to win this Winter Inspiration Gift Bag. It’s going to be a great treat for one special winner! However, due to the cost of shipping, international winners will only be eligible for the $25.00 gift card and an eBook ARC of my January release.

I’m currently hard at work trying to polish my latest paranormal and hopefully get it out to my agent before the publishing industry closes for holiday. I’ve really got a full schedule ahead of me so I may be hiding in the writing cave from now until the first part of 2010. I know you’re curious about my foray into the paranormal but I think you’ll enjoy the shift In the meantime, you can always catch up on my latest news and ramblings by following me on my BLOG.

I hope you enjoy this beautiful season and hope you make the effort to spend time with your loved ones. I’ll be traveling most of December and January but will sneak in some time to get some much needed R&R.

Until next month,

October is well under way and I’ve been busy writing. I love this time of year when the excitement of the upcoming holiday season swirls in the air. There’s something magical about seeing Christmas lights go up and decorations lining the streets. If I can get through this current project, I hope to write a short holiday free read for you. It’s been a while since I’ve written something just for myself and it’s even better to be able to share it with my readers. I don’t know about you but this is the time when I’m at my busiest. I’m sure you are too and so you’ll most likely enjoy escaping from the stresses of daily life for an hour or so–and you should! I haven’t decided if I’m going to write a paranormal or a contemporary yet, but I know that when I’m ready to sit down and weave this tale, my characters will let me know what kind of adventure they want to star in.

I’m also planning on doing a nice winter giveaway. It’s going to be something special but it’s not all fleshed out yet. As soon as I make a decision I’ll be able to fill you in. Well, I’ve got exactly one week to finish my WIP so I better get back to it…

Hopefully you’re enjoying the beautiful weather, the changing leaves, the smell of hot cocoa or ginger spiced latte… Just remember, life’s too short not to take some time out for yourself.

All my best,

“This collection of stories goes on the keeper shelf to be brought out again and again.”

Dear Friends & Readers:

Welcome to the official re-design of my website. I thought it was time to change things up a bit since I’m starting a new paranormal series that is dark, sexy, and edgier than what I’ve written before. I haven’t stopped writing those contemporaries—I promise you that. For now, I wanted to go outside my comfort zone and provide a tale that’s action-packed and entertaining. This is a totally new identity and hopefully it’ll thrill you, but if you’re looking for all the heat, it’s still there, just not as explicit because I promised my family I’d write something they could read. When I am able to post tidbits of this new novel you’ll get a first look! I think changing directions is a good thing…but I hope you’ll love whatever I write!

I wanted to take this opportunity thank my supporters. I’m so grateful to all you who have purchased ART OF SENSUALITY. Word of mouth is helping spread my name around the globe…small press doesn’t have quite the distribution so I’m hoping you’ll be nice enough to tell others about my books. If you haven’t picked up SUNSWEPT, you should. It may become a collector’s item someday since it’s the last project that was written under the Cassidy Kent name.

In the coming months, I hope I’ll have some great news to add. Until then…