Sherry James

What happens if I push THIS button?

2011-04-11T08:44:00.000-05:00

The Cowboy and the Hellcat Release Week!

2010-11-08T10:03:00.011-06:00

IT'S CHRISTMAS TIME AT THE 4 ACES RANCH!

This is an exciting week for me! My first published western historical will be released from The Wild Rose Press this Wednesday, Nov. 10th. I can't wait. And I can't wait for you to meet Adam Ford and Ellie Merrick. These two have a habit of making sparks fly! Can the magic of Christmas help this Cowboy and the Hellcat find love?

To celebrate, I'll be making several cyber appearances throughout the week.

Join me:
Nov. 9th--Shelley Munro's blog
Nov. 10th--SOS Aloha Blog
Nov. 10th--Historical Romances Excerpts & Promo group (all day e-mail chat)
Nov. 13th--Petticoats & Pistols Blog

And I also have a contest going on now at my Sherry James web site. Stop by and get entered for a chance to win a T-Shirt. I hope to see you around!

Halloween Blog Blitz Winners at ABM

2010-11-02T12:29:00.002-05:00

I was so busy posting blogs over at Authors By Moonlight last week I didn't get any posted here. Darn.

But, I have my winners from last week to share. If you are one of these three lucky people, please email me at sherryjames@hamilton.net and give my your snail mail address so I can get your prizes out to you!

Winners are:
Oct. 26th Margaret Tanner
Oct. 27th April R.
Oct. 31st Cathy M.

Congratulations!!!

Love This Time of Year!

2010-10-20T09:38:00.005-05:00

I love Autumn. It's such a pretty time of year, and the temps are perfect. I love the mid to upper 70's, and no humidity. Plus, I love the colors of the season and the beauty of pumpkins ripe on the vine. I also love Halloween. It's always been one of my favorite holidays. I think the vibrant array of colors has something to do with it (I love to decorate!), but I admit, the "things that go bump in the night" side of Halloween gives a hint of mystery and fun too. I'd love to have a conversation with a friendly ghost who lived during the time of the Civil War, the Wild West, or Medieval times. How cool! So, to celebrate, I'll be posting some fun Halloween stuff here starting next week, plus more stuff over at the group blog I belong to. Join me here and at www.authorsbymoonlight for some spooktacular fun in the days ahead!

Busy Summer

2010-08-16T20:51:00.006-05:00

Wow! It's been a busy summer. That's my excuse for being absent for so long from my blog, and I'm sticking to it! My apologies. But the summer of 2010 is winding down and that means some exciting news for me. Both of my kids will now be in school! Yes, my youngest will be in kindergarten. It's true, the mommy side of me is a a tickle bit sad, but the writer side of me is excited and can't wait to see what I can accomplish. In one more week I'll be home alone all day to take care of the business of writing and keeping up with my career. Yippee!

So, keep watching Sherry James. I hope you'll see some exciting things happening in my career, and some changes coming to my blog and web site!

Authors By Moonlight

2010-05-10T12:19:00.004-05:00

Howdy, all!

I'm thrilled to share with you a new blog venture---Authors By Moonlight. I've joined forces with five other authors, Laura Landon, Ann Stephens, Tiffany Green, Fleeta Cunningham, and Francesca Hawley, to create a new blog Where Romance Glows!

We all write romance, but you'll find not only historical and contemporaries, but retro, and sweet to smokin' hot! We're officially launching the site this week, May 10 -15th. Be sure and stop by to meet all of us. Each day one of the ABM authors will be featured. You'll also have a chance to read excerpts. AND, we're giving away prizes each day. You can get entered by simply leaving a comment to our posts.

This new blog is awesome, and one of the main reasons I've been absent from this one for a while. It took many emails, ideas, and coordinating to get ABM up and running. I feel it was worth the effort. I hope you will, too.

So, please stop by and leave a comment. And be sure to bookmark ABM. We have some great guest bloggers lined up for the year. I hope to blog with you by Moonlight!

Happy St. Patrick's Day!

2010-03-17T09:19:00.006-05:00

May the Luck of the Irish be with you today! I'm not Irish, but I do love this holiday. Not only is it an excuse to just have some fun ;-), yes, it's true, I've been known to drink a green beer or two, but the day is also a sure sign that Spring is just around the corner. And after the long winter we've had, I'm really ready for Spring. I also happen to love Shamrocks. I think they are so cute, and so green!

Again, I have to apologize for being absent from my blog. Shame on me. But, I have been busy working on a the sequel to Cowboy Fling. Yep, that's right. Country Fling is close to being done and I hope to have some news to share regarding that book soon. I've also been very busy doing a lot of web site work, and have joined forces with five other authors to bring you a new site with all kinds of exciting things. I'll tell you more about Authors By Moonlight very soon.

In the meantime, here is a little Irish verse for you to enjoy today!

May good luck be with you
Wherever you go,
And your blessings outnumber
The shamrocks that grow.

So, how about you? Do you like having a little fun on St. Patrick's Day? If so, what do you like to do? Drink that green beer I mentioned? Eat corned beef? Kiss the Blarney Stone?

Have a Happy & Safe one!

February Cowboy of the Month--Skeeter Kingsolver

2010-02-22T12:02:00.006-06:00

If you frequent my blog much, you’ll probably recognize this young cowboy’s name and face from an earlier entry. I had the opportunity to meet Skeeter in early December when he rode at a PBR event near where I live. Although he’s young and is making a huge splash in the bull riding world, Skeeter has all the great manners of a Kansas cowboy. I had the chance to visit with Skeeter and I have to admit I asked him a ton of questions about bull riding and traveling down the road. He was gracious, and eager to share his knowledge and experiences.

Skeeter, also known as The Royal Solution in the bull riding world, made a huge and lasting impression on the sport after getting on his first-ever bull on the Built Ford Tough Series a couple of years ago. Not only did Skeeter receive a 90-point ride, but took the round win as well. Pretty impressive. And, whenever Skeeter makes the eight second buzzer he consistently scores in the mid to upper 80’s.

How did this McClouth, Kansas native get so good? Well, he’s had the desire to ride since a very young age. He started out riding sheep, moved up to steers, attended a bull riding school, has ridden broncs, and has received some sage advice and help from two big names in the sport, Chris Shivers and Gary Leffew. His older brother, Blake, has been a big help and influence, too. And at this stage of the game, in spite of a few injuries, Skeeter doesn’t let fear get in his way. He rides each bull with gusto and isn’t afraid to use his spurs.

Last year Skeeter learned a little bit about the world of television. He was one of several cowboys CMT highlighted in their December television show, The Posse. I asked Skeeter what it was like to do the show. In his down home, good ol’ boy attitude he said it was all right and kind of fun. But, he did admit that after a while being followed constantly by the cameras got a little old.

Skeeter reminds me a lot of my hero, Devlin McCord, from my novella Eight Seconds, Ellora’s Cave Flavors of Ecstasy Anthology Vol. 3. True, Devlin is older than Skeeter, but the two share a love and devotion to the sport of Pro Bull riding. They are both good guys under those big ol' cowboy hats! So, here’s to Skeeter—a young gun who knows what he wants and who isn’t afraid to go for it and live his dream.

How about you? Are you living your dream? Are you going after what you really want in life? Every time I sit down to write I'm living my dream of being a professional romance writer. And, I promised myself that this year is the year to get in the saddle and run those barrels again. Life is short. Live your dreams!

January Author of the Month--Pamela Morsi

2010-01-26T13:03:00.012-06:00

Another new addition to my blog this year is featuring a favorite author of mine each month. To kick off the year I’m starting with one of my all time favorites, Pamela Morsi.

The first time I ever met Pam was way back in 1992 in Chicago at the RWA National conference. Her first book, Heaven Scent, had just won a Waldenbooks award and I took advantage of the moment by snapping a picture. Although I hadn’t read the book yet, I was working as an assistant manager for Waldenbooks at the time so I knew who she was.

My first reading experience with one of Pam’s book actually came with her third book, Garters, which came out the following month after that conference in Chicago. We’d received some bookmarks from the publisher there at the book store and since I’d just met Pam I was doubly excited to give one of her books a try. As soon as the book came in I grabbed a copy, read it, and was hooked! Proud, determined Esme Crabb captivated me from page one.

I then went back and read Heaven Scent and Courting Miss Hattie, and waited impatiently for every Morsi book to come down the pike. Eventually, she published a book entitled Runabout. Oh, I absolutely loved that book. Recently jilted Tulsa May Bruder loves the independence the cantankerous Runabout car gives her. Much to her surprise, she ends falling in love with the one man who has a talent for fixing it. This story is a true delight and Morsi delivers a homey, small town, turn-of-the century atmosphere with this story that I just love.

Then in 1995, Pam published Something Shady. Oh! Something Shady is my all-time, A-#1 favorite Morsi book. Yes, all of Pam’s historicals are on my keeper shelf, but if I had to give up all but one, Something Shady is the one I’d fight tooth and nail to keep. Again, Pam does a terrific job of bringing the turn-of-the-century small town to life. And she does it by creating characters you can empathize with, laugh with, root for, and just plain fall for. I love Gertrude Barkley’s unapologetic and independent ways, and when she finds herself in the middle of a sleepy town scandal, she discovers the man next door, who she has known for years, is really the man of her dreams.

And Pam’s writing is always fantastic. The woman has a way with prose, let me tell you. And setting, she’s brilliant when it comes to creating setting and atmosphere. One of my favorites lines from Something Shady demonstrates exactly what I mean. The moon was a mere sliver in the autumn sky, turned like the edge of a teacup pouring out the last dregs of luster on the night. (sigh) What can I say? That one line always inspires me to be the best writer I can be.

Other delightful books, Simple Jess, The Love Charm, No Ordinary Princess, Sealed with a Kiss, Sweetwood Bride, and Here Comes the Bride, followed. All of them are wonderful books I love, but in my eye, Something Shady is the best of the best.

So, a few years ago when the historical market hit kind of a lull and Pam decided to branch out into contemporary, I was bummed. Big time. As a writer I understand the need to make a living, or to spread creative wings and try new things, but oh, how I miss Pam’s historicals. And I’ll be honest here. (Sorry Pam) I haven’t read a single one of her contemporaries. I’m sure I’m missing out on some absolute gems by being stubborn like that, but I so love her historicals that I’m afraid reading a contemporary will taint, or take away some of the magic she created in those historical characters I love so much. I don’t know. It’s my twisted way of thinking, I guess. If Pam would come back to writing her small town historicals you bet I’d be first in line to plunk down my cash.

So, how about you? Are you a fan of Pam’s historicals? If so, why? And, if you’ve read her contemporaries, which one(s) do you recommend? Maybe you can convince me to shove aside my stubborn streak!

January Cowboy of the Month--Trevor Brazile

2010-01-19T11:11:00.006-06:00

This month I’m starting a new year-long salute to cowboys. Each month I will profile a cowboy who inspires me to write my sizzling cowboy stories for you! I hope you enjoy, and I look forward to your comments.

To kick off the year I’m starting with the talented Trevor Brazile in honor of his Seventh All-Around Championship win! Yee-Haw! Congratulations, Trevor! Brazile won the title at this past December’s Wrangler National Finals Rodeo in Las Vegas, NV. The 2009 win ties Brazile with bronc and bull rider Ty Murray, a legend in his own right, who dominated in 1989 - 1994.

A Texas native, Trevor has now qualified for the national finals 18 times in Steer Roping and Tie-Down Roping, and is the first cowboy to qualify for the NFR in 4 different events, (steer, tie-down, team roping header and heeler). A tough competitor, Brazile is the Triple Crown winning cowboy of 2007 by winning the All Around, Steer Roping and Tie-Down roping titles. He also holds the highest single-year earnings record for 2007 by banking $425,115.00. And if that isn’t enough, he’s also the youngest cowboy to cross the $3 million earnings mark! Wow! Sorry ladies. He’s happily married. ;-)

How does Brazile do it? Well, he has five things going for him—background, persistence, focus, horsemanship and practice. His rodeo roots run deep. His father, Jimmy, was a four time NFR qualifier in steer roping, and his mother, Glenda, rodeoed as well. While he was learning to walk, Trevor was also learning to swing a rope. And these days when Brazile is not in the arena competing for the gold buckle, he’s in the practice pen. Fellow cowboys say his focus and concentration are uncanny. Numbers don’t lie and it’s obvious this cowboy has no trouble shifting from one event to another at each rodeo. A skill he attributes to his father. "He wanted me to be an all-around cowboy, not just a tie-down roper, steer roper or team roper. He wanted me to excel in all of it," says Trevor. He also gives credit for his mental toughness to his father-in-law, five time World Champion Tie-Down roper and roping legend Roy Cooper.

When not traveling down the rodeo road, Brazile hangs his hat at his Decatur, Texas ranch where he enjoys family life with his wife and young son. He trains quarter horses and hopes to host roping clinics when (someday) he retires from the rodeo circuit.

The thing I like about Trevor is he is a true cowboy with a strong work ethic who lives, eats, and breathes the western life 365 days of the year. He’s tough, yet has the utmost respect and appreciation for his horses, stating that he’d be just another cowboy without the talent and athleticism of his four-legged partners. And, okay, I admit it, Trevor is a cutie, too!

Yeah, Trevor is definitely inspiration for a romance hero. What say you? What makes a cowboy hero material in your book?

Be sure to keep an eye out for February's Cowboy of the month coming soon!

Happy 75th Birthday, Elvis!

2010-01-08T11:00:00.011-06:00

Wow! Elvis would have been 75 today. Hard to imagine. We thought he seemed kind of old when he passed away at age 42 in 1977 (of course, I was just a kid at the time and all adults seemed old!). In retrospect, 42 was darn young. Just think of all he could have continued to accomplish in the years since. He was so incredibly talented, handsome, and had an awesome stage presence. Elvis was the first to do so many things in the entertainment industry. No wonder he became such an icon and is still a legend today. And I, for one, still miss him! I never tire of his music and listening to his wonderful voice!

That's why it was such a thrill for me to visit Graceland this past June. My dear husband indulged me and we spent a whole day there (I splurged on V.I.P. passes) and we ended up touring the house twice and taking our sweet time on the grounds. It was great. If you are an Elvis fan, I highly recommend going V.I.P. Having the time to explore and not be rushed is the only way to go if you really want to maximize your Elvis experience.

As we were touring the house, I felt just like Alex and Casey did (Studs for Hire: Woman in Charge) and half expected Elvis to come around a corner, or to see him sitting at the piano, or watching TV. Graceland is still very much alive with his spirit. As I was writing Studs for Hire: Woman in Charge, I really developed a new appreciation for Elvis. I'd had been a fan since I was a kid, but when I was brushing up on my Elvis research, I really began to understand and appreciate all that he did for others, and what he accomplished in a rather short period of time.

In Woman in Charge, I try to honor Elvis in a respective and fun way. And like me, Casey develops a new appreciation for the King of Rock 'n Roll. Casey learns a lot of neat, fun things about Elvis while learning to give love a chance.

Some of my favorite memories of Elvis are his '68 Comeback Special (black leather never looked so good!), his Aloha from Hawaii Concert, plus too many more to bore you with. How about you? Do you have a favorite Elvis memory? Celebrate Elvis' Birthday with me by sharing your thoughts!

Blogging at TRS

2009-12-21T10:40:00.006-06:00

Howdy, Readers!

Just a quick note, I'll be blogging tomorrow, Dec. 22nd, at the Romance Studio Blog! Please join me as we talk about snow, books, snow, and more books! Post a comment, and I'll put your name in for a prize! Hope to see you there.

Happy Holidays!

Sherry James

Black Velvet Seductions Holiday Party!

2009-12-11T15:14:00.006-06:00

Hey, all! I wanted to let you know that on December 12, 13, and 14th, my one publisher, Black Velvet Seductions, will be hosting a 3 day holiday party potluck and pitch in on the Black Velvet Seductions Blog.

All readers who post during this three day holiday party will be entered in the drawing for the BVS Pick Your Own Prize Contest...where you can choose from a wide array of prizes, including Kindles, Nooks, Sony Readers, and gift cards...for a total prize package of $260. BVS will announce the winners on Valentines Day! There are two ways to get your name in the hat for the big prize! One--Subscribe to the BVS readers newsletter. And two--Post a comment on the blog. Simple!

So be sure to stop by this weekend and visit with us BVS authors. There will be all kinds of good stuff going on to celebrate the season!

Hope to see you there!
Sherry

Cowboy Research Winner!

2009-12-10T11:08:00.004-06:00

Okay, I have a winner! Sorry for the delay in making the announcement. We had major snow here on Tuesday and Wednesday, school called off and kids under feet, so needless to say I'm running behind a little. ;-)

My thanks to all of you who stopped by to chat! My winner for this quickie contest is Shelley Monro! Congratulations, Shelley!! Please email me at sherryjames@hamilton.net and tell me your preferred e-book format and I'll get it off to you!

Oh, and be sure to tune into CMT this Saturdady. You can see Skeeter Kingsolver in the Posse and get a glimpse of life behind the bucking chutes. And cool, I get to say I know him! ;-)

Cowboy Research

2009-12-07T10:49:00.006-06:00

I love to do research, especially when that research involves talking to real live, in the flesh, sexy cowboys. I know a lot about rodeo, bull riding, and the western way of life, but it’s always nice to talk to other folks who also live and breathe the life to get a fresh perspective. I also love to write about cowboys and I always strive to make darn sure I’m depicting the life as accurately as possible for you, the reader.

That’s why when my local radio station was giving away tickets to a dinner/meet & greet with PBR (Professional Bull Riders) bull fighters, stock contractors, and bull riders, I put three phones to work. My insane efforts paid off and I was the correct caller and got my name put in for the drawing. And by golly, luck was really on my side last week. My name was drawn out for the big package, including tickets to the bull riding. Yee-Haw! Thank you, KRGI FM! So, I called up my critique partner and good buddy, Julie Miller, and asked if she’d like to go. All in the name of research, of course! ;-) Even though Julie writes about cops in Kansas City for Harlequin Intrigue, she jumped at the chance to experience something new. I mean, what better way to talk bull riding, rodeo, and goin’ down the road then over a nice dinner and a few drinks with handsome men! Handsome men are always good inspiration for us romance writers!

Bull fighter, Cody Hollums of Midland, TX, was gracious and answered my slew of questions. He even asked me if I was going to write a book featuring a bull fighter as the hero. You betcha, Cody! And I can guarantee he’s going to look a lot like you. Keep an eye out.

Stock contractor, Chad (Bubba) Berger of Mandan, ND was a lot of fun, too, and I wish I would have had more one-on-one time to talk with him. Thanks for the beer, Chad!

Then I sat down with bull riders, Markus Mariluch of Elko, NV, and Skeeter Kingsolver of Mclouth, KS. These two were so down-to-earth, just good ‘ol boys, and were more than happy to answer all my questions. We talked about the lifestyle, the travel, and if fear ever enters their minds before they climb onto the back of those 2,000 pound bulls. Markus knows all too well what it’s like to be stomped on by a bull. In 2008 he rode a bull who tried to make hamburger out of his face. Amazingly, Markus was back in the chute a week later and ready to take another bull out for a spin. Now that’s tough. Cowboy tough!

As for Skeeter. Well, what can I say? Skeeter is just as cute as a bug’s ear. I mean this guy is young enough to be my son, but he’s as sweet, polite, and common as they come. I just wanted to squeeze him! And keep your eye out for Skeeter. He’s a rising star in the PBR and you can even catch him in the reality TV show, The Posse, airing on CMT this coming Saturday night Dec. 12th. The film crew followed Skeeter and other pro bull riders around this past summer to give fans a glimpse into the world behind the bucking chutes. Skeeter said it was fun doing the show, although at times he did get a little weary of the cameras being right there all the time.

The bull riding Saturday night was awesome. The bulls were rank, too. Big time. One bull was so rank that after he dumped his rider, he decided to take on the outrider and his horse. That cowboy suddenly found himself on a date with the fence, and his horse took an unwanted ride on the bull! Fortunately, neither the horse or cowboy, were hurt, but it sure looked ugly. On a positive note, one young cowboy who’d brought his girl to the bull riding had worked it out to bring her into the arena. Much to her surprise, he got down on one knee in the dirt and proposed! Now that’s romance the cowboy way. And you can bet that’s going to show up in a book someday. To me, that epitomizes the cowboy. He’s a gentleman, shows respect to women, all the guys we met stood when we stood, offered their hands in a friendly shake, and tipped their hats, and he’s down to earth. To me, they symbolize the honesty and integrity of the American way of life, and showcase the roots of our great country! Long live Cowboys!

So, do you like to read about cowboys? For you, what’s the allure? And do you prefer contemporary cowboys over historical cowboys? Or do you love them both? All of you who comment today will get their name into the drawing for an electronic download of the Flavors of Ecstasy Anthology Vol. III where you can read my latest cowboy story, Eight Seconds! Happy Holidays.

Pix: Bull fighter Cody Hollums of Midland, TX & little 'ol me!
And me with Markus Mariluch of Elko, NV, Bart Miller of Oshkosh, NE, and Skeeter Kingsolver of Mclouth, KS.

Music to Write By!

2009-12-01T00:47:00.006-06:00

Every book I write has a theme song or theme album that I listen to repeatedly throughout the creative process of putting those coveted words on the page. I love music, and it's a great tool for us writers to create a mood, or help us conjure up the emotions we need our characters to feel and pour out onto the pages.

The last two cowboy books I've written, one historical & one contemporary, found me spinning the soundtrack from the movie Wyatt Earp over and over. Even though the books were set more than 140 years apart, the music just seemed to fit both. Some great emotional tracks on that album! And since I write romance, emotion is a key element to writing a compelling book.

Now, I'm at the start of revisions on another contemporary cowboy romance, Lassoed Heart, which I wrote a while back. Okay, quite a while back. ;-) Needless to say, I've been in search of a new theme song for this book. And I found it!

Once I find "that" song, it's forever connected to the book in my mind. I can't listen to that song ever again without thinking of that particular book. The characters, and all the emotions they and I experienced while writing that story come rushing back. That might seem strange to people who aren't writers, but trust me, it's a good feeling. It's kind of like visiting old friends by a warm cozy fire!

Although I'm sure I'll listen to many Country songs while working on Lassoed Heart, Forever by John Micheal Montgomery will be my main theme song. This is an awesome song and can be found on his Time Flies album! This song was released a few months ago, but for some reason it just hasn't received much air play. Why, I have no idea. It deserves it!!!

So, there's a little sneak peek into my creative process!

Working Hard!

2009-11-10T14:13:00.006-06:00

Howdy!

I apologize for being absent from this blog for so long again. What can I say? My life is hectic. But I am hard at work finishing up several manuscripts. Right now I have three projects that need to be completed and out before the end of the year. Hopefully, I'll have some great news to share with you all in the coming months! So, if my appearances here are slim, please forgive me. I promise to do better soon. In the meantime you can find me on Facebook and drop a hello there. I try to check in at least once a day, got to check my crops quick on Farmville, you know!

I hope you are having a nice Autumn, and are getting ready for a wonderful Thanksgiving!

Release Day!

2009-09-22T10:31:00.003-05:00

It's release day for Flavors of Ecstasy! Woo-Hoo! You can now read Eight Seconds plus all of the other fantastic stories included in the anthology.

Eight Seconds is a story that has a special spot in my heart. I'd started the book last summer with the intention of submitting it to Ellora's Cave. It was my hope I'd make the cut for one of their four Cavemen anthologies they release each year. Due to my mom's very serious illness though, I was kind of slow getting it going. Unfortunately, my sweet mom passed away on Sept. 3, 2008. The deadline to have the story submitted was Sept. 30, but I knew I still wanted try and make it. And I knew my mom would have wanted me to. So, after a few days of doing nothing but snuggling up on the couch, I was mentally and physically exhausted, I pulled myself up by my bootstraps and got busy. Thank goodness I have a lap top because I still didn't really like to leave my cozy spot on the couch too much. And that's where the majority of Eight Seconds was written. I felt driven and energized to get the book done. I'm sure the looming deadline helped, but it was almost as if my mom was standing beside me cheering me on, telling me not give up. Much to my surprise and joy, I did make the cut! I'm convinced mom was there helping get the story done, and it seems fitting that the book is released now, one year later, in September. For me it's kind of a full circle thing.

Anyway, I hope you like Eight Seconds. It was written during a very tough time in my life, but the story certainly isn't a downer. Eight Seconds is about taking chances, and about digging down and finding your inner strengths to take those chances. Devlin and Taylor's story was a blessing for me because it made me dig down and find my inner strength. It was a light in a very dark tunnel and guided me out into the brightness once again.

I hope you enjoy reading the story as much as I enjoyed writing it!

Sherry

Eight Seconds

2009-09-21T11:38:00.005-05:00

Wow! Just got the cover for the anthology! I love it. What's so cool about it is, this Ellora's Cave model, and I'm sorry I can't think of his name right, got to go look it up, is the guy who walked me across the stage at the Romantic Times convention in Orlando this past April! He was very sweet and seemed kind of shy.

I also like the way they did this cover because the model's look has kind of a cowboy feel to it. And since Eight Seconds is a cowboy story, woo-hoo! And, Fall is one of my favorite times of the year so I love the pumpkin touch, too.

So, let me know what you like/dislike about the cover? Do you think this guy is hot? Gotta love that torso! ;-) I'm always thrilled to get the cover of my new book because it makes the whole thing feel more real. I finally have something visual to validate that I actually have a book coming out. It's an amazing feeling and one I will never get tired of.

Anyway, enjoy the cover. And don't forget, today is the start of week 3 of my contest. Stop by my web site to get entered by Sept. 30th. You could win a print copy of the anthology and a Sherry James cowboy T-shirt!

Enjoy! And Good Luck!
Sherry

Cowboys are Hot!

2009-09-04T13:34:00.002-05:00

It’s no secret. I love cowboys. All cowboys—historic, working cowboys, and rodeo cowboys. Cowboys are hot! For me, they are one of the ultimate heroes because they are one of the earliest heroes our country has ever seen. There is a huge romance factor that surrounds the American Cowboy and it has encompassed this breed of man for generations. And, I think, it always will. I have to admit, there is just something about a man in a nice fittin’ pair of Wranglers, a pair of boots and a cowboy hat that conjures up a whole other form of romance in my mind! But aside from the eye candy they provide, I love the history surrounding the cowboy, and the fact most historic cowboys tried to follow the code of the West, with a few liberties now and then which they believed to be justified, of course.

Yes, a lot of cowboys prefer solitude, but that’s one of the things I find intriguing about them. They can be a bit of a mystery and I can’t help wondering what makes them tick. What scars are they carrying? And I’m not talking just physical here. That is one reason I love to write cowboys. They can have a lot of angst and conflict floating around in their backgrounds and that makes for great story fodder.

Most cowboys I’ve known, although tough and hard workers, have a gentle side. They can break an ornery colt to ride, but show him compassion and caring, too. They are respectful of children and women, and when they give their hearts they don’t give lightly, but give for the duration. The cowboy is usually pretty darn patriotic, and he is a man with a ton of pride. Yes, sometimes that pride gets in the way of doing what he really wants, or giving his heart, but that’s another reason I love to write cowboys. Again, they are loaded with conflict. And if you’re an avid romance reader like me, you know conflict, aside from characters we can relate to and root for, is at the heart of any good novel.

If you like/love cowboys, I want to hear why. What is it about cowboys that make you sigh, drool, and dream? And don’t forget to enter my contest in progress. Go to www.sherryjames.com to enter.

Happy trails1

Three Contests This Month!

2009-09-02T08:32:00.004-05:00

Howdy!

Eight Seconds will be released later this month in the Ellora's Cave Cavemen Flavors of Ecstasy Anthology Vol. III! Yee-Haw! To celebrate I'm hosting 3 contests. The first one is running now through September 10th. Visit my web site, www.sherryjames.com, and read an excerpt, answer a question, and enter. It's that simple. I'll draw a winner from all correct answers.

Also, this month I'll be blogging about COWBOYS! So if you love cowboys as much as I do, join in the discussion. We'll chat about contemporary cowboys, historical cowboys, rodeo cowboys, cowboys in romance novels, why cowboys are so hot, and whatever else I can think of that is cowboy. Do you love cowboys? If so, leave a comment here and tell me what cowboy related topic you'd like to jaw over in the coming days. I'd love to hear from you!

Chatting Today

2009-08-27T12:01:00.005-05:00

Howdy! Sorry for being absent from this blog for so long. Again! I won't bore you now with the details as to why. Anyway, I'm chatting over at the http://groups.yahoo.com/group/Chatting_with_Joyfully_Reviewed/

It's Cowboys and Western Day! Come read some great excerpts! You can get a sneak peek of my new book, Eight Seconds, coming in September from Ellora's Cave!

Hope to see you there!

Vacation Blog Contest Winner!

2009-06-23T16:56:00.004-05:00

It's time to announce the winner of my Vacation Blog Contest! But first, my thanks to all of you who stopped in and followed me on my travels. I'm, for the most, recovered, although I feel way behind on everything now. But it was so worth it! I hope you enjoyed traveling with me as much as I enjoyed having you along! It was fun to share my adventures.

Now for the winner!

Congratulations to Estella! Estella had posted nine times giving her nine chances to win. And it paid off. My son picked one of your numbers from the hat. Woo-Hoo!

Estella, please e-mail me privately at sherryjames@hamilton.net with your name and address and I'll get your T-shirt out to you.

Again, my thanks to all of you who visited, and posted comments. Keep on stopping by my blog, you never know what I'll be doing next!

Match the Silks with the Horse! Earn extra Chance!

2009-06-21T15:22:00.006-05:00

Here's a little trivia for you. Match the following silks with the correct horse and I'll put your name in for an extra chance for the Sherry James T-Shirt! And even if you don't get all the answers right, I'll still put your name in an extra time just for trying.

All three of these horses not only won the Kentucky Derby, but went on to win the coveted Triple Crown, a feat that hasn't been accomplished for 31 years. They also helped to make the 1970's a Decade of Champions in the horseracing world. So, test your horseracing I.Q., and you could come out a winner! I'll announce the winner of my Vacation Blog Contest on Monday! Good Luck, and thanks for taking the time to follow my vacation and to post!

A. Secretariat B. Affirmed C. Seattle Slew

1.

2.

3.

Vacation Blog Contest Day 7--Churchill Downs Cont.

2009-06-21T15:10:00.004-05:00

Friday found us back at Churchill Downs to finish the tour of the museum that we didn’t get to the day before. There is so much to see and read there that it takes a while to get through it all. If you are a horse lover a visit to the Kentucky Derby museum is a must. You’ll be in heaven! I was. The museum is two levels of exhibits, many of which are interactive where you can watch the actual Kentucky Derby from about every year, test your Kentucky Derby/horseracing knowledge, and see what it’s like to ride a race as a jockey. There are genuine racing silks worn by the jockeys of such greats as Affirmed, Seattle Slew, and Secretariat! I again watched the film “The Greatest Race”, this time from the second floor where you can look down into the theatre. It’s shaped in an oval like a race track! Again, the film moved me to tears. It is an awesome piece of work. I wish they’d put it on DVD so I could watch again and again.

We then enjoyed an awesome lunch at the Kentucky Derby Café, and visited at length with the handler of the resident museum Thoroughbred, Prefect Drift. I shopped the Museum store where I could have made a huge dent in their inventory! But I refrained from going nuts. I purchased only one T-shirt, much to the appreciation of my credit card! We then simply hung around enjoying the atmosphere while we waited for the races to start at 6:00 PM.

And wow! What a crush. Since this was a historic night for Churchill, racing under the lights for the first time in the track’s history, they were going all out. The red carpet was rolled out and they were interviewing people, gave away a chance to win a $1,000 wager, and had live music all over the place. There were a ton of people there and it gave me a good taste of what attending the Kentucky Derby would be like. All I have to say is buy your drinks early, and keep your fingers crossed you never need to go to the restroom! The betting lines even got so long that after about three races I gave up betting and just sat and watched all of the excitement. The races themselves were very exciting. It was cool to watch them run on the turf as well as the dirt. I've seen live racing on the dirt practically all my life, but this was the first time I've seen them run live on the turf. It was fun to watch the track maintenance guys work the turf track after a race fixing all the divots left by those thundering hooves. What a job!

And that was my dream vacation! It was awesome and wonderful! I know I’d love to go back to Nashville and Churchill Downs again. I loved Graceland, wouldn’t mind going there again, too. What about you? What would be your dream vacation?

More Churchill Downs Pix

2009-06-18T19:36:00.003-05:00

So Awesome!

Vacation Blog Contest Day 6--Churchill Downs

2009-06-18T19:17:00.007-05:00

It’s Thursday--day six of our trip. We woke to major thunderstorms. And I mean major! It rained so hard here at the hotel that we couldn’t even see the parking lot from our seventh floor window for a short time. Needless to say that delayed us leaving the hotel and making our way to Churchill Downs. Once we did get to the racetrack we quickly discovered they were without power due to the severe storms. I couldn’t believe it. I’ve been waiting most of my life for this chance! I mean, I’ve been dying to come to Kentucky and see Churchill Downs since . . . well, I’m not going to give you an exact year for risk of dating myself. ;-) But I’ll give you a hint. If you know anything about horseracing you’ll know what year Affirmed won not only the Kentucky Derby, but also the Triple Crown. If you know what year that was, you’ll know how long I’ve been waiting for this chance. You know the old saying, Good Things Come to Those Who Wait? Well, that was certainly true in this case. And for me, it was worth the wait---power outage and all! I was in absolute Heaven!

While waiting for the power to be restored, we meandered around outside the Kentucky Derby museum for a little bit. We then took a trackside tour and got to see Calvin Borel, two-time Kentucky Derby winning jockey, mount up for the first race. We then took a tour of the backside. Awesome! Our guide for the backside portion of the tour was Terri, a spunky, fun gal who made the tour worth every penny. We not only got to stand within a few feet of the starting gate and see the horses break from the gate, but we got to see 2009 Kentucky Derby Winner, Mine That Bird, munching on his morning allotment of hay in his stall! Talk about a thrill. Bird’s bodyguard was on duty keeping watch with a smile on his face as Terri took pictures for all of us on the tour.

After a great lunch, we were on our way back to the museum when I saw Chip Woolley, Mine That Bird’s trainer, sitting on a bench just relaxing with a beer. I shoved aside my shyness, went up and said hello, got his autograph and a picture. He was super nice, very humble, and truly amazed at all that has transpired for him during the last few months. A true cowboy!

We then continued on with our tour of the Derby Museum. There they have a 360 degree film that you can watch of the Derby and its history, how it all starts with the birth of a foal, and the insurmountable odds of not only making it to the Derby, but winning it. It was fantastic and put me on the verge of tears. The afternoon went way too fast and due to the late start we didn’t get through everything. There are tons of exhibits to view and enjoy. Good news, we’re going back tomorrow to finish what we started! And Friday is a historic day for Churchill. It will be the first time in the track’s history that they are going to race at night and under the lights. I can’t wait to be a part of it. I’m afraid my credit card is going to be groaning by the time I get done in the museum gift shop!

Have you ever watched the Kentucky Derby on TV or live at the track? A racing fan or not, you can’t deny it’s the most exciting two minutes in sports history! Let me hear from you and get your name in the hat for that amazing Sherry James T-shirt!!!

More Ryman Pix to Enjoy

2009-06-18T19:14:00.004-05:00

Vacation Blog Contest Day 5--More Nashville

2009-06-18T19:05:00.008-05:00

Well, we made it to Louisville, KY! We got here late afternoon on Wednesday. My apologies for not posting this sooner. I was feeling pretty wiped out and then we had to go through yet another thunderstorm here so that has delayed my getting online. Seems like everywhere we go the storms go with us. Wednesday afternoon, while traveling on I-65, we got caught in a downpour and a little bit of hail. Needless to say, we got off at the nearest exit.

But before all that we had a great time touring the historic Ryman Auditorium in Nashville. If you’re a Country Music fan you’ll know that the Ryman is called the Mother Church of Country Music and was home to the Grand Ole Opry from 1943 – 1974. The Ryman is truly an amazing place steeped in history. The acoustics are out of this world, but just knowing who all has performed on that stage is truly mind blowing. The list of names is endless---Roy Acuff, Minnie Pearl, Patsy Cline, Elvis Presley, Johnny Cash, Hank Williams Sr., Loretta Lynn, Tammy Wynette, Steve Wariner, Chet Atkins, Sheryl Crow, James Brown, Keith Urban and on, and on. Even Rudolf Valentino and Mae West performed on that historic stage.

Because they were getting ready for a performance we weren’t able to walk on stage, so I did the next best thing. I placed my hand on those well-worn boards and snapped a picture! Ain’t I silly?!

They had some really cool exhibits and it was fun to see Minnie Pearl’s hat with her trademark $1.98 price tag dangling off the brim. I also saw a pair of Johnny Cash’s tall black boots. Johnny was one big man!

Have you been to the Ryman? Do you have a favorite Country star?

Vacation Blog Contest Day 4 Cont.--Nashville

2009-06-17T00:17:00.006-05:00

Okay, I can't resist putting up one more post tonight. As some of you might know, I'm a huge Country music fan, so a trip to Nashville wouldn't be complete without checking out the music this town is so famous for. Our hotel is on Broadway, where a lot of music action happens in Nashville, so we walked four blocks down the street to where the CMT Music Video Awards were being held. We decided to check things out and found a crowd of people standing and waiting to catch a glimpse of the stars. We got there in time to catch two! Naomi Judd was beautiful---as usual---in her blue dress. Then, we got a real treat when Keith Urban came strolling along. Keith stopped and greated fans and signed autographs! Although I didn't get an autograph, I got some great pix! How cool.

After the awards show, it was neat to see all the long, black limos lined up along the street ready to whisk their famous passengers off into the night! I love Nashville!

How about you? Ever been to Nashville? Or do you have a favorite Country star? I was hoping to see my buddy Dierks Bentley, but no such luck. Maybe next time!

Belle Meade Plantation Photos

2009-06-17T00:12:00.004-05:00

Vaction Blog Contest Day 4--Plantations

2009-06-16T23:25:00.002-05:00

Day four found us down the road and headed toward Nashville. But, we decided to take in some more history and visit a couple of plantations along the way. Our first stop was the historic Carnton Plantation, home of the New York bestseller, The Widow of the South, which is in my TBR pile! That was one of several reasons I wanted to visit Carnton. Again, like Shiloh, this place is steeped in history, and the magnitude of what happened here is unbelievable. In the intense heat and Tennessee humidity we learned that Carnton was used as a field hospital during the Battle of Franklin in late November 1864. Here, five hours of one of the bloodiest battles of the war was fought in complete darkness. Blood still stains the wooden floor boards on the second floor of the mansion from the 300 wounded and dying soldiers who occupied the house during and after the battle. We visited with a guy who used to live in the Franklin area and he said, one time he’d made a late night visit to the Confederate cemetery located on the property. He swore he saw the ghosts of many Confederates there! Oh, so many stories to write, so little time!

We then found our way to Belle Meade plantation just a few miles from the excitement of Nashville. This house is huge, and oh, so beautiful! And so is the carriage house. This plantation was known for its race horses and about 80% of all Thoroughbreds today are descended from the famous sires who once stood there---including two horses I own. Fortunately, Nashville and Belle Meade didn’t come under fire during the years of the Civil War, so they were spared the devastation.

A few years ago I visited Oak Alley plantation in Louisiana. All three of these historic sites are immaculately preserved and if you love history, a must-see! They are so beautiful that it is easy to imagine the ladies of the era strolling the large porches in their hoop skirts and flowing gowns.

Have you read The Widow of the South by chance? When I get home, it’s moving up in my TBR pile!

Vaction Blog Contest--Extra Pix from Shiloh

2009-06-16T23:17:00.002-05:00

Vaction Blog Contest Day 3--Memphis & Shiloh

2009-06-16T08:46:00.005-05:00

It was a full day today! After checking out of the Heartbreak Hotel, we headed for downtown Memphis to see Mud Island and Beale St. Unfortunately, Mud Island is closed on Mondays so we took a quick look at the riverboats before we headed down to Beale St. Beale was neat, and of course, full of history. It’s kind of amazing to think of all the famous people who have walked those sidewalks! Including Casey and Alex from Studs for Hire: Woman in Charge! Alex and Casey might not be famous, but they were there and experienced the night life of Memphis. We discovered that on Monday mornings Beale is rather quiet. If you’d like the chance to really explore the street and take your time, go on a hot, sultry Monday morning in June! After a great lunch at B.B. King’s, where we had fried dill pickles—which were awesome btw—we took off for Shiloh Battlefield.

We arrived at Shiloh at about 5 PM. Although we were too late to take in the bookstore and visitor’s center, going late in the day was an awesome experience. The temperatures had cooled, making walking the grounds much more pleasant. In spite of the tragedy of the Civil War unfolding here, this place is absolutely beautiful. The grounds are meticulously kept, and the abundance of trees make you feel very isolated. Again, there were very few people there, and at times we found ourselves totally alone walking the hallowed grounds where over 22,000 men fought 147 years ago.

It wasn’t long after we were there that thunder clouds started to build and darkened the area. The distant rumble of thunder created an eeriness and I imagined that rumble as cannon fire echoing through the dense trees of April 6 & 7th of 1862. It’s incredible they were able to fight a battle here and accomplish a thing because of the massive denseness of the trees. As we drove the van and toured the long trail around the battlefield, we at times, felt very disoriented due to no sun and the thickness of the trees. There are stone and metal markers all over the place marking the locations of all the regiments, headquarters, and events of the battle. Cannons lined up and ready for battle can be seen throughout the grounds—some pointing directly into the trees.

Soon we were driving through a downpour. At times I almost felt a sense of panic, wondering if we were going to be able to find our way out of the park. We were getting close to the end of trail when a critter ran out in front of us! And by golly that critter was a live Armadillo! Finally, after years of traveling through Oklahoma, Texas and Arkansas and only seeing Armadillos as road kill on the roadsides, I finally got to see a live one. It seems kind of ironic that I see a live one at a place that saw so much death.

Shiloh was truly an amazing place. I didn’t see any ghosts, but I certainly did imagine the thousands of soldiers filling this place. Although those soldiers might not physically be there, you can feel a strong presence, and the magnitude of what transpired here blows you away. So much so that right now I’m at a loss for words to describe my feelings.

Have you ever visited a Civil War battlefield? If so, what feelings did you walk away with?

Vacation Blog Contest Day 2--Graceland

2009-06-14T22:27:00.008-05:00

Wow! What a great day we had. We arrived at Graceland at about 9:30 this AM with rainy skies hanging over us, but it turned out to be a beautiful, although a bit sultry, day, and a great day to take pix outside. I splurged on the VIP Entourage tour and I’m so glad I did. It was sooo worth it. It gave us access to almost everything and it was nice to tour the mansion a second time. The first time through felt kind of rushed and crowded, so going back later in the afternoon gave us a chance to see the things we missed the first round, plus do it at a leisurely pace.

I have to admit when I wrote Studs for Hire: Woman in Charge, I hadn’t ever toured Graceland. I wanted to come, but my dad’s illness, and a super tight deadline, didn’t allow me the pleasure. So, to get all the details right for Alex and Casey’s trip here, I had to do a lot of research. Thank goodness for the internet, books, and DVD’s! And thanks to my good friends Kathy and Noelle who shared with me their personal photos and experiences.

Well, after touring today, I’m happy to say I got it right. And it was fun to think of Alex and Casey and the various scenes where they see the lions at the front of the house for the first time, or when Casey looks up at Elvis’ bedroom window with a feeling that maybe Elvis is watching. I feel I did a good job of nailing their reactions and thoughts about Elvis and Graceland while they took the VIP tour. The mansion is really cool, the grounds are beautiful, and the meditation garden very peaceful and soulful. And the staff was super nice and very personable.

One of my big highlights of the day was meeting Elvis impersonator Mark Eskew. We just happened to run into him in the car museum. He was very nice, but it took me a while to work up the courage to ask for a photo. He graciously obliged and I just love it! Thanks, Mark! Then later we even ran into Mark at Walgreens and said howdy again!

I loved the famous musical gates, although they seem much smaller than I expected, and I even signed the wall! I took a total of 183 pix and went through three sets of batteries. I wasn’t leaving anything to chance! We felt like we walked 10 miles by the time we headed back to our hotel. And guess which hotel? If you read Woman in Charge you’ll remember that Alex and Casey stayed at the Heartbreak Hotel. Yep, that’s where we are! Once again I splurged by getting a suite for us. Not one of the themed suites mind you, but a nice suite where I’m lounging on the couch as I write this. I did have an Elvis movie on the TV, but hubby switched the channel after Double Trouble was over, apparently he needed a break from Elvis after being emerged in the King for eight hours. What’s up with that?

Okay, I’ve rambled on long enough. I could easily go on, and on, and on, but I won’t bore you. So, have you ever been to Graceland? What was your favorite part? And if you read Woman in Charge, do you have a favorite scene? Remember, every time you post this week, your name goes into the drawing for a Sherry James T-Shirt!

Vacation Blog Contest Day 1--On The Road!

2009-06-13T23:17:00.008-05:00

Okay, this is going to be a short post to kick off my blog contest. I'm exhausted! I got to bed way too late last night, was up way too early this AM, and during the 4 1/2 hours I was in bed, I slept maybe two. Figures. It seems it never fails that just before a trip I can't get to bed at a decent hour. Guess the house was just too quiet with the kids and dogs shipped off to the grandparents and my brother's! Well, and then I had to finish picking up around the house and vacuuming! Sorry, I can't help it. I don't like leaving a dirty house when I go out of town. It’s kind of like the wearing clean underwear thing.

But it was a great day for traveling. We left Nebraska and headed down the road for Memphis just shortly after 7 AM. We slipped through the SW corner of Iowa and then spent the majority of the day driving through scenic and beautiful Missouri and Arkansas. We made it to West Memphis at nine something this evening. Yea! My backside fell asleep numerous times, and I was stiff, but it was nothing that making a periodic pit stop didn’t cure. ;-)

I really enjoyed driving through MO & AK. Both are just gorgeous this time of year with all the trees fully leafed out and an abundance of wildflowers blooming along the roadsides. Flowers, however, weren't the only things in abundance along the Interstates and Highways! Roadkill was everywhere. We saw more deer, coyotes, armadillos, coons, skunks and opossums littering the scenic byways than I could begin to count. I told my hubby that instead of noting licenses plates along the way, we should have been counting the number of roadkill! I think the deer won for the most who’d met their demise while the armadillo was coming in a close second.

Do you play travel games when you’re taking a long road trip? If so, what? Hopefully not roadkill! :-)

Remember, each time you post, your name gets put into the hat for a T-shirt!

Vacation Blog Contest Coming!

2009-06-11T17:01:00.005-05:00

I'm taking a vacation! Woo-hoo! My hubby and I are taking a trip!!! Yes, just the two of us. We're celebrating our anniversary a little early this year due to the fact it's in October and the kids' school schedules make it tough to sneak away then.

For years we've been wanting to travel down to Tennessee and Kentucky. After all these years we're taking the plunge and just going. Can't wait! If you follow my blog or web site at all you know I'm a big Country Music fan, a horse lover, and love to explore and do research.

So, travel along with me as we visit Memphis--Graceland, Shiloh Battlefield, Nashville, Louisville--Churchill Downs, and any horse farm that will let me set foot on its coveted grounds! I'm sure we'll find some other fun and interesting sites along the way, too.

Each day, starting Sunday, June 14th and running through Friday, June 19th, I'll be posting about our adventures for the day. If you post a comment on my blog I'll put your name in the hat for a Sherry James T-Shirt. That's right, an authentic, rare, first-run Sherry James T-shirt! Heck! I'll even autograph it! Post all six days and you'll get your name in the drawing six times. The more you post, the more you increase your chances of winning!

So, join me on vaction! I hope to see you down the road!

Finishing a book!

2009-06-07T22:33:00.003-05:00

Hey, just a quick note as the the next couple of days will be super busy. I'm getting close to finishing my latest book. It's another novella with the working title of The Cowboy and the Hellcat! This time I ventured back to my first love, historical romance. It's a western set in the Nebraska territory during the winter of 1860. Keep your fingers crossed it gets accepted. I'll keep you posted.

BTW, next weekend the hubby and I are leaving on vaction for Memphis, Nashville, and Lousiville, KY. I can't wait. It's a solo trip for us two. The kids are staying with grandparents! I'm sooo looking forward to having some down time and seeing new places. I hope to blog along the way and post some pix for your enjoyment.

Time to get the kiddies to bed.

Chatting Tonight!

2009-05-14T14:01:00.007-05:00

Hey, Readers!
I just wanted to let you all know that I and my fellow Black Velvet Seductions authors will be chatting tonight at the Author Island Yahoo group. You will need to subscribe to the list to participate. The link is http://groups.yahoo.com/group/AuthorIslandChat/

But everyone, and I mean EVERYONE who stops by for the chat will receive a free e-book of their choice from my publisher, Black Velvet Seductions! How awesome is that?! It's a great way to add to your summer reading list.

So, stop on by for some fun. We'll be posting excerpts and answering all your burning questions, plus you'll get a FREE book of your choice! I hope to see you there.

Recovered from RT?

2009-05-11T12:03:00.007-05:00

Well, I've been home from the RT BOOKreviewers convention for two weeks now, although it seems like months--gee, what's that say about my life?! But I guess I can say I'm pretty much recovered from the trip to Orlando. RT is always a good time with all the happenings going on like meeting readers and booksellers, wild parties, swimming at midnight, and of course, all the hunky cover models running around providing for some great eye candy! And just in case you're wondering, no, I didn't go swimming with any of those hunky models at midnight. Darn.

For me, one of the highlights of this year's convention was just being in the company of my fellow EC authors and enjoying all the great stuff EC did for us. It really was a thrill to walk across stage with a hunky guy and be recognized at the Ellora's Cave Jungle Fantasy party. And I didn't even make a fool of myself by tripping and smacking my face on the floor! Give me a pat on the back!

But it was also fun to see my name in bold letters lining the entrance way into the ballroom. I couldn't resist a picture by my paw for the fun of it. Hey, it's as close as I'll ever get to a Hollywood Walk of Fame! My good friend, Julie Miller, said the picture reminded her of one of the pin-up girls from the 40's, you know, like Betty Grable. Wow! What a nice compliment.

I was more involved in this RT convention then ever before. Besides the EC party, I also presented a workshop, signed at the E-book signing, was a sponsor for the SOS Military Mixer, and made an appearence at Club RT. I gave away T-shirts, a gift basket, and quite a few little goodie bags. It was a great convention, a great trip, and I'm so glad I went. I was in need of a little R & R from the demands of two kids, seven horses, and three dogs. And my hubby was a real sweetheart for picking up the slack in my absence.

One of my favorite workshops this year was the cover model shoot. Wow. You talk about hot! But I'll save that for a post later this week. I'll even post a picture so you have an idea what I'm talking about.

Have you ever been to an RT Convention? If so, what was your favorite thing about it? If not, would you like to go, and why? Free books? Meet your favorite authors? Dance until midnight each night?

Love Cowboys??

2009-05-05T15:44:00.004-05:00

Me bad. It's been months since I last posted. Sorry about that. But I have been busy writing, having a new brand created, and attending the RT BOOKreviewers convention in Orlando! I also have a new book coming out later this year. Woo-Hoo! If you love cowboys, get ready to saddle up for a sizzlin' ride with Devlin McCord in Eight Seconds. You'll find this hot, sexy cowboy and his story in the Ellora's Caveman Flavors of Ecstasy Anthology, Vol. III in September.

To celebrate my new brand and new book, I've decided to freshen up my blog a bit. I'll also be redoing my web site in the coming months. So keep an eye out for that. To celebrate I'll be hosting some contests this summer. I'll be giving away Sherry James T-Shirts, Ellora's Cave card decks, and who knows what else! In the mean time, I promise to be a better blogger!

Happy New Year!

2009-01-06T08:56:00.010-06:00

I can't believe it. 2009 is already here. Wow. In another year we'll almost be through the first decade of the 21st Century. Seems like just yesterday we were all worried about the Y2K stuff.

Since it's a new year, as usual, I have many goals I hope to accomplish in the coming months. Hopefully this year will be less stressful and I can get my writing career back on track---that not only includes seeing a couple of books published this year, but getting my personal writing schedule on a consistent schedule. I've learned over the years that in this business consistency is one the big keys to success. As a writer you have to write consistently, submit consistently, and have books published consistently to develop that coveted readership.

I also just bought a new horse! Yes, I'm so excited. So, I hope to spend a lot more time in the saddle this year. One of these days I'll post some pix of my horse family for you to see.

In the meantime, what are some of your plans/goals for 2009? Have you been writing a book, but have yet to submit? Maybe this is the year to take that plunge. After all, you can't sell a book if you don't submit it to a publisher. Speaking of publishers. I'd better get busy. I have revisions to finish on Eight Seconds!

Nebraska Finishes Strong at the WNFR!

2008-12-16T09:05:00.006-06:00

Well, the 2008 WNFR is in the history books. I watched as much as ESPN would allow while nursing a cold from you know where. I’m proud to say the Nebraska cowboys and cowgirls did pretty darn good, too. First off, my congratulations go out to Kristin Schott, Miss Rodeo Nebraska, for finishing in the Top 10 of the Miss Rodeo America pageant. That’s no small feat, let me tell ya. Way to go, Kristin.

Also, a big congratulations goes out to Steven Dent. Steven not only finished second in the Bareback Riding at the WNFR, but it looks like he’s finishing the year in second place for the All-Around title as well. Yee-Haw! Dean Gorsuch also finished second in the Steer Wrestling, and Todd Suhn finished ninth. Wow! Again, no small feet. These cowboys are the best of the best. Long Live Those Nebraska Cowboys! Check out www.prorodeo.com for all the final results and some great pix as well.

As a writer I’m always on the look out for inspiration and I can certainly find it at prorodeo.com. Well, and mix in a few pix of George Strait, Dierks Bentley and Elvis Presley and I’m set. Speaking of inspiration, now that I have it for the morning, I’d better put it to good use writing. I have two manuscripts I need to finish by January 15th. Can I do it? You bet I can! I hope. ;)

Wrangler National Finals Rodeo Underway!

2008-12-05T12:14:00.014-06:00

I'm in Heaven! The Wrangler National Finals Rodeo kicked off yesterday in Las Vegas, and since I love Cowboys, I'm excited. And hats off to Nebraska Cowboy, Steven Dent! Steven finshed second in the first go-round of the Bareback riding last night. And to further toot Steven's horn, he's currently leading the World in Bareback, and is second in the All-Around! Yee-Haw, Steven!

Also, a big good luck to Kristin Schott, Miss Rodeo Nebraska, during this week's Miss Rodeo America competition. MRA 2009 will be crowned on Saturday, Dec. 6th. I'm pullin' for ya, Kristin!

I just wish I could have made the trip to Vegas to enjoy all the excitment of the 50th Anniversary of the National Finals. Oh, well. Maybe next year. Right now I have books to finish! BTW, my lifelong love of rodeo, the western way of life, and hours spent in the saddle are what helps me write those steamy cowboy books for you all. Keep a sharp eye out for Eight Seconds coming soon from Ellora's Cave. If you love bull riders, you'll love Devlin McCord in Eight Seconds.

And don't worry, if you enjoyed Cowboy Fling, the sequel, Country Fling, is close to being done. I hope to have it into my editor very soon.

So, if you're a lover of cowboy/western romances, contemporary or historical, what is it about this sub-genre that you love so? Yes, there is just something majorly sexy about a man in a cowboy hat, a nice fittin' pair of jeans and chaps, but that's just the surface. What else attracts you to the cowboy? Is he a man of mystery for you? Is he forbidden? Untamable? Is it his code of honor? Let me hear from you!

Thanksgiving Blog Blitz Winner!

2008-11-24T14:42:00.004-06:00

I have a Blog Blitz Winner! Congratulations go out to Tami C. She is the winner of an autographed copy of Studs for Hire: Woman on Top! Tami, please e-mail me privately at sherryjames@hamilton.net with your snail mail address and I'll get your book out to you.

Thank you all for stopping by last week and posting. It was fun. Keep stopping by for more news about Eight Seconds, coming soon from Ellora's Cave, and other future releases and contests.

What Are You Thankful For?

2008-11-21T13:45:00.007-06:00

Since Thanksgiving is now less than a week away, I thought on this final day of my Blog Blitz we’d talk about what we’re thankful for. First of all I’m thankful for all of you faithful bloggers who have taken the time to stop by this past week. Thank you. I appreciate your support.

This past year has been a rough one. After losing both of my parents in a ten-month time span, I’ve come to realize even more how precious life is. But as difficult as this loss is, I’m thankful I was blessed to have two such wonderful and caring people for parents. My mom and dad were firm but fair, and taught me to respect others and to lend a helping hand. They didn’t just give us kids everything we wanted, but instead taught us that working hard and being patient can reap great rewards. That in turn taught us four kids valuable lessons in respect and appreciation. I am forever grateful. And I miss them both terribly. My life is forever changed by their passing, but I am who I am today because of them.

I am also thankful for my wonderful, supportive husband. And yes he has many of the hero qualities we talked about yesterday—including a bit of the domestic side. He’s a great cook and if I had my way, he’d be doing the cooking seven days a week! I’m also thankful for my two beautiful children, my health, my wonderful in-laws, my brothers, and their families. I’m also thankful I live in a country where we are free, and thankful for the men and women who put on uniforms every day to keep us that way. Thank You! And God Bless You! If you have a family member or friend who has ties to the military, past or present, please also extend my thanks to them and wish them a Happy Thanksgiving.

As Mama Bear in the Berenstain Bears and the Prize Pumpkin so aptly put it, “Thanksgiving isn’t about contests or prizes. It’s about giving thanks. And it seems to me we have a lot to be thankful for.” And yes we do. Even in this turbulant economic time, we still do.

So, tell me what you’re thankful for, and remember, every time you post a comment to any of my Thanksgiving posts for the week your name will go into the drawing for an autographed copy of Studs for Hire: Woman on Top. Chances to win close at midnight tonight and I will draw the winner some time this weekend. Good Luck!

Here's an old recipe my family brought over from Germany. It's a little bit of work to prepare, but it's delicious and was always a family tradition at holidays.

Big Dumpling
½ Cup of Lard or Shortening
½ Cup Sugar
1 Tsp. Salt
3 Eggs Beaten
1 Cup Milk
3 Cups Flour
2 Tsp. Baking Powder

Cream together lard, salt & sugar. Add beaten eggs. Sift flour with baking powder. Add to first mixture alternately with milk. Mix well. Pour into well greased coffee tin and cover with foil. Set tin into a larger kettle of boiling water. Cover with lid. Steam for 2 hours. Tooth pick should come out clean when tested. Serve with a fruit sauce of raisins, prunes, apricots, or cranberries.

Hero Qualities

2008-11-20T09:03:00.006-06:00

I’m thrilled to say that I’ll have a novella, Eight Seconds, coming out next year in one of the Caveman anthologies, Flavors of Ecstasy, from Ellora’s Cave. I don’t know which volume yet, or what other EC authors I’ll be paired up with, but I’ll share as soon as I hear.

Eight Seconds is the story of rancher, romance writer Taylor Westfall, and professional bull rider Devlin McCord. I love cowboys! And I loved writing this story. It was great therapy for me after losing my mom, and it was nice to immerse myself in something positive and fun. Plus, I had a deadline to meet which is always great motivation.

Eight Seconds takes place one snowy weekend before Thanksgiving. I’ve always wanted to write a holiday connected story, and although this one only mentions Thanksgiving, the time of year and the snow reiterate her loneliness and the isolation she faces on her ranch. And, she’s in much need of some sexual inspiration for her writing. She’s bound and determined not to spend another harsh winter all by herself. Cowboy Devlin McCord is sexy, hot and just what she needs to get the creative juices flowing again! Hey, I wouldn’t mind spending more than eight seconds with this guy. Too bad I can’t make my fictional characters come to life in the flesh. Oops! Don’t tell my husband I said that!

Besides being good-looking and sexy, Devlin is honest, caring, and loyal to the bone. All qualities my heros must have, even if they don’t realize they have them. And yes, the hunk in the photo is George Strait, a true American cowboy who inspires this writer's work all the time! What are your favorite must-have hero qualities?

What's in your Autumn TBR Pile?

2008-11-19T16:41:00.010-06:00

Hey, fellow bloggers! Sorry I’m so late getting my Wednesday entry up. It’s been one of those days. I’ve been busy getting my lap top PC all set up again after my darling daughter crashed the hard drive on it the other week. Then, our well decided to go on the fritz late last night, so we were without water for a good portion of today. Fortunately our nice repair man, Mark, made it here in good time and got us taken care of. Thanks, Mark!

While I was outside visiting with Mark, we both commented on how nice the weather was today for November 19th. I love Autumn. It’s a beautiful time of year, and here in the Midwest we can experience weather ranging from sunny days in the low to mid 70's, to below freezing temps with a mixture of freezing rain and snow to make driving life interesting. But on those days when the sun is shining and the temps are fair, it’s fun to get outside and enjoy Nature’s palette of golds and reds, hear the leaves crunching beneath your feet and listen to the few remaining crickets singing their songs. The cooler, dry days of Autumn are such a relief after the hot, humidity packed days of summer we have here, too.

Ever since I was a kid I’ve loved fall. I think it’s the beginning of a magical time of year with all the fun things we did at school, and the anticipation of the many holidays ahead of us. The vibrant colors of fall are a delight for the eyes, and the days get shorter, giving us permission to take more time to squirrel away with those books we have stacked on our TBR piles.

Speaking of which, I have more than one TBR pile. I need to get busy! Some of the books stacked in those piles for this Autumn are Julie Miller’s Brotherhood of the Badge series from Harlequin Temptation. I just picked up the fourth and final book, Kansas City Christmas, the other day, but it has to wait until I read the first three. I also have Picture of Perfection by Kristin Gabriel, Fearless Fourteen by Janet Evanovich, and Alien Overnight by Robin L. Rotham, to name a few. I can’t wait to read all of those wonderful authors. Those books are my rewards for getting my own writing done. Who needs chocolate?! Well . . . okay, I admit it. I DO! But no books or chocolate for me until I get my work done. Right now I’m working on revisions for Eight Seconds which will be released by Ellora’s Cave next year in one of the Caveman Anthologies. I’ll share more details about Eight Seconds in tomorrow’s post. If you love cowboys, I hope you’ll like Eight Seconds.

So, tell me what titles do you have in your TBR piles for this fall and winter? I’m always on the look out for new books and authors to add to my stash!

Thanksgiving Movies & TV Specials

2008-11-18T11:07:00.006-06:00

Welcome to day two of my Thanksgiving Blog Blitz! Today I thought we’d talk about our favorite Thanksgiving movies or TV specials. Although there aren’t as many centered around this holiday, there are a few. For me, one of my favorites is A Charlie Brown Thanksgiving. I watched it again for the umpteenth time last night, (I splurged and bought the deluxe edition DVD three pack, for the kids, of course!) but it was the first time for my two kids to see this special. They laughed, and laughed even harder when Snoopy had his altercations with the ping pong table and the lawn chair. Classic!

But what I love so much about the Peanuts specials is that through the genius of Charles Schulz they teach the true meanings of the seasons without being preachy. I think one of the reasons the shows do this so successfully is because those lessons are shared through the innocent wisdom of children, and we all know how kids can say the most profound and amazing things without even realizing it. They don’t intentionally set out to teach us adults a lesson, but they just manage to do it. In addition, I love the brilliance of Vince Guaraldi and the music he created for Charlie Brown and his friends beginning with A Charlie Brown Christmas. You can’t listen to Vince’s music and not think of the Peanuts gang. I also love the fact they used children to voice the characters. I think those amateur, sometimes singsong voices add a core of truth and sincerity to the shows, taking me back to the innocence and wonder of my own childhood. Oh, how we so looked forward to watching all of those TV specials during the holidays. You had one shot per year to see them and you just prayed Rudolph, Charlie, Frosty, or the Grinch weren’t scheduled to air on the night of your school program. Oops! I'm dating myself.

Another Thanksgiving movie I’d love to see is The Thanksgiving Treasure starring Jason Robards and Lisa Lucas. I absolutely loved The House Without a Christmas Tree and have always wanted to see the other three movies in the series. Have you seen The Thanksgiving Treasure? If so, did you like it? And do you have a favorite Thanksgiving movie or TV show you'd like to share?

Remember, every time you post a comment to my blog this week, your name will go into the drawing for an autographed copy of Studs for Hire: Woman on Top. Even if you already own a copy, Christmas is coming and autographed books make great gifts, so get entered!

Thanksgiving Blog Blitz Starts Today!

2008-11-17T11:01:00.009-06:00

Okay, readers. It’s time to get my Thanksgiving Blog Blitz rolling! I’m not only celebrating the Thanksgiving Holiday, but the recent sale of my fourth book! Yee-Haw! Eight Seconds is a novella and will be released in 2009 in one of the Ellora’s Cave, Flavors of Ecstasy anthologies. I’m not sure which volume yet, but I’ll keep you posted. Eight Seconds does take place in November and mentions Thanksgiving, so I’ll be blogging about it later in the week. Here we go!

Thanksgiving marks the official start of the holiday season, and since I love history, I’m starting the week with some Turkey Day Trivia. See how much you remember from history class.

The first Thanksgiving was celebrated in 1621.

But, it wasn’t declared an official holiday until 1789 by President George Washington.

Many states observed Thanksgiving, but not all, and on different days. President Abraham Lincoln, faced with the trials and tribulations of the Civil War, was looking for a way to unite the nation and gave his Thanksgiving proclamation in October 1863. Lincoln declared the last Thursday in November would be observed as a day of Thanksgiving.

During the midst of WWII, President Franklin D. Roosevelt, looking for a way to give a boost to the shopping season, moved the holiday to the third Thursday for the years 1939, 1940, and 1941. The idea didn’t go over so well and Congress passed a resolution in 1941 decreeing Thanksgiving would always fall on the fourth Thursday.

So, ever since then our nation has been setting aside a day for us to give thanks by indulging in way too much food, taking a nap, and watching football on a weekday afternoon. Sounds like a perfect day. Well, maybe. For most women it means even more stress, work in the kitchen, a house full of relatives, and a mountain of dishes. Oh, how many Thanksgivings my dear mom worked to put a magnificent meal on the table. Bless her. She did so in style by not only preparing mouth-watering food, but by adding touches of the Autumn season with candles and fall silks to decorate the house and table.

One of my fondest memories of Thanksgiving is of my mom and her festive holiday apron. She’d get up bright and early that morning and with the apron officially tied in place, she’d get that bird in the oven. For the day, whether it matched or not, that handsewn apron, with its horse and sleigh print, was a part of her outfit. And you know, that trusted, well-worn kitchen helper wouldn’t leave her waist until the last dish had been washed and put away that evening. Did she complain? Nope. She did it out of a profound love for her family. Seeing her hustle around the kitchen with that faded, old apron is one thing I will miss big time this year. What I wouldn’t give for one more day. Maybe it’s time for me to pull that apron out of the drawer and carry on the tradition. By golly, I think I’ll do that. For mom.

So, what fond memories do you have of Thanksgiving? I’d love to hear them. Remember, every time you post a comment to my blog this week, your name will go into the drawing for an autographed copy of Studs for Hire: Woman on Top! Good Luck!

Thanksgiving Blog Blitz Contest Coming Soon!

2008-11-10T20:35:00.005-06:00

Hey! Sorry I'm a little slower than I anticipated in posting about the contest I promised. Where does the time go? Anyway, I'll be hosting a five day Thanksgiving Blog Blitz November 17 - 21. Stop by and leave a comment to one of my daily Thanksgiving posts during those five days and you'll be entered in the drawing for an autographed copy of Studs for Hire: Woman on Top! Each time you comment during those five days, I'll throw your name into the drawing, so visit every day and comment every day. Heck, comment twice a day or more if you're feeling the Thanksgiving spirit. Get ready for virtual turkey and pumpkin pie!

Happy Fall!

2008-10-22T09:30:00.004-05:00

It's now fall and Halloween is just around the corner. Once again it's been a while since I last posted. I apologize for being absent so much, but my dear mom passed away on Sept. 3rd, so I've had a major life change. It hasn't been easy, and I miss her more than I can say. In a case like this, there are simply no words to describe what I feel. But, I'm plugging along and managing to get some writing done. I completed a novella, More Than Eight Seconds, and it's with my publisher now. I hope to have more news to share with you soon about this story. I loved writing it, and I love my hero Devlin McCord. He's a hot, sexy professional bull rider, so hold onto your chaps!

Right now I'm working on finishing up the sequel to Cowboy Fling. Hopefully you'll see Country Fling in print soon. It's taken me longer than I anticipated to get this story done, but if you've read any of my previous posts, you can understand why. Life really can be a bowl of pits sometimes.

At any rate, I hope to get back to a regular blogging schedule starting November 1. And, I'm thinking I might host some kind of contest to kick things off again. I'm not sure what, but I'll do something. Keep watching.

Life

2008-08-31T17:04:00.008-05:00

Okay. I admit it! I've been a very bad blogger for the last few months. I apologize for not updating since June. Bad me! But, in my defense, I have to say I've had a lot going on in my personal life this past year. After my dad passed away last November, I was so in hopes that life would settle down and every one in my family would be happy and healthy. Unfortunately that wasn't meant to be. Two of my oldest brothers both ended up in the hospital at different times, (one with a broken bone, the other with Rocky Mountain Spotted fever) we had major water issues in our basement this past spring, my third brother is still struggling through a divorce, and and if all of that isn't enough, my mom was diagnosed with cancer at the end of July. That, let me tell you, was a major blow to all of us. She's hardly been sick a day in her life. At the moment she is doing realtively well and I say my prayers for her every day. After a couple of stays in the hospital we had to move her from the farm to a nursing home so she could get the proper care she needs. I now oversee all her financial needs, and we are in the process of getting the farm cleaned up and ready to be sold next spring. Major life changes for all of us. And not one I ever, ever looked forward to. That was always some day in the distant future. But unfortunately someday is here. The years fly by so fast. Heck, seems like I was in second grade just yesterday. Where did the time go?

Around all of life's chaos I am managing to still write, although at a slower pace than I like. I hope to have news of a new book soon. I'll keep you posted the best I can. But if I'm absent from this blog again for a while, please understand.

On a positive note, it's time to start thinking about fall and all the great books coming out we'll be able to snuggle up with soon. Now, that is something to look forward to!

A Triple Crown Winner in 2008?

2008-06-07T11:59:00.003-05:00

Secretariat, circa 1973

Okay, I have to admit it. My heart is lodged in my throat and it will stay there until the Belmont Stakes, the final race in the Triple Crown, is in the history books. Those who know me know that I’m a big horse racing fan, and in honor of Big Brown’s run for the Crown I just had to blog about it.

It’s been thirty years since Affirmed and Alydar battled each other in all three legs of the Triple Crown, and I watched every second with my nose pretty much pressed against the TV screen. You couldn’t drag me away. I had to watch it down to the wire and see Affirmed become only the 11th horse in history to win the Triple Crown. And ok, I had a huge crush on Affirmed’s jockey, Steve Cauthen, but that’s not what this is about. Those races were thrilling, exciting, and fantastic to watch. They still make my heart race today when I go back and watch them. To me there is just something about these magnificent animals stretching all out, hooves thundering, battling each other for the lead and ultimately the win.
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But have you ever had the privilege of watching the great horse Secretariat run the 1973 Triple Crown races? I watched them again this morning on YouTube, mainly to see how Big Brown’s first two wins stack up in comparison to Secretariat’s wins in the Kentucky Derby and Preakness, and thought, hmm… Maybe?

But I also found myself, once again, watching in utter amazement and cheering on a horse who’d raced his heart out 35 years ago. By the time Secretariat had made racing history and winning the Belmont by an astounding, unheard of 31 lengths, I had tears streaming down my face. I know it sounds crazy to get so emotional about a horse race, but well, those races were incredible. Secretariat was incredible.

I’ve watched Big Brown run the first two legs, and win handily both times, and I just haven’t been able to stop wondering if we’re watching a horse here that is reminiscent of Secretariat. Granted, there will only be one Secretariat. No horse will ever fill his horseshoes. But it looks like to me that Big Brown does have the potential to place his own pair of shoes into the annuals of racing history. He is big, he’s bold, you can see he has heart, and he loves to run. And he loves to come from behind, take the lead, and then command it down to the wire. Looks very familiar.

But will it happen? Can Big Brown really do it? Ten horses in the past 30 years have won both of the first two legs of the Triple Crown only to lose the glory in the Belmont. At a mile-and-a-half, the Belmont is a long, grueling race. Sure, Big Brown has it all, but does he have enough of it all to make the trip and be first across the wire? If he does, not only will his stud fee take a huge increase, but he will firmly lock those special shoes of his in the records of not only horse racing history, but American history. Wow. It really makes me want to get cracking on the series of horse racing romances I’ve been wanting to write.

What do you think? Will Big Brown win the Triple Crown? Or will 2008 be one more year of almost, but not quite?

SOS Mixer Contest Winner--Is it You?

2008-05-09T11:17:00.005-05:00

I'm proud to be one of the sponsoring authors of the Romantic Times SOS Military Mixer held each year at the RT Convention. I wasn't able to attend this year in Pittsburg, so fellow SOS sponsor, Julie Miller, joined forces with me to do a little something extra. We hosted a special SOS Mixer Military Contest that all attendees could enter.

And we have our winner! Woo-Hoo! We would like to congratulate SGT John Cashenfs of the U.S. Army! John will be receiving a care package of goodies from us. "Keep on rolling," John!

If you look closely at the picture, you'll see that handsome man is none other than the King of romance novel covers, and "I can't Believe It's Not Butter" fame, Fabio! Fabio made it a speical point to attend the Mixer this year, and now I'm really bummed I couldn't go!

But I have to say it truly is an honor and a privilage for me to give back what I can to our troops. After all, they give and sacrifice so much for us and our Country. God Bless them all!

Romantic Times SOS Military Mixer Contest, April 19- May 3rd

2008-04-18T23:00:00.007-05:00

For the second year in a row I'm one of the sponsoring authors of the Romantic Times BOOKlovers Convention SOS Military Mixer held April 19th in Pittsburg, PA. I feel it's very important to support and thank our men and women who have worked hard, and sacrificed so much, to keep the good ol' USA safe for all of us. So if you are in the Military, have served in the past, or have a loved one who has served, you were welcome to join the event! Saturday, April, 19th, 4 -5 PM, Hilton Pittsburgh, 600 Commonwealth Place.

Unfortunately, I wasn't able to attend in person this year, so I've teamed up with good pal and critique partner, Julie Miller, to bring you a special little SOS contest. If you attended, I hope you were amongst the lucky ones to receive a red, white or blue goody bag from me, or one of Julie's books, in your BIG goody bag. In that bag/book you will find a card with information about the SOS contest and the code you need to enter. Email me with that code, and Julie and I will put your name into the hat for a very special Military Care Package. Deadline to enter is April 30th.

Thank You for your service to our Country. God Bless You!

Sherry

Looking for help from Readers

2008-04-17T23:50:00.006-05:00

Readers, I need your help! I am doing research for an article I am writing about the promotional value of authors hosting their own contests for the September issue of the Romance Writers Report. If you’ve ever read a book, entered a readers’ contest or thought about entering one, I’d love to have some feedback from you. You may answer any or all of the questions, or just share what you think.

1. Have you ever entered an author-sponsored contest?

2. If so, why? The prize? Getting to know a new author? Keeping tabs on a favorite author? Contest junkie? etc.?

3. What prizes draw you to a contest? Free book(s)? New releases? Backlist titles? Pampering gifts like chocolate or lotions? A unique gift? etc.?

4. If/when you enter the contest, do you take some time to explore the author’s website?

5. Has entering or winning a contest ever led you to discovering a new author whose books you will read, check out and/or purchase in the future?

6. Does a repeat regularity of an author’s contest (monthly/seasonally/with each book/etc.) get you into the habit of coming back to check his/her website on a regular basis? Or does the frequency of a contest make it lose its luster for you?

7. Any particular perks or peeves about author-sponsored contests you’d like to share?

Thanks for your help!

Sherry James

Pot O' Gold Contest & More!

2008-04-01T10:36:00.007-05:00

My Pot O' Gold contest is offically over. My thanks to all of you who entered. I have drawn two winners this time, and they will each get to choose between Studs for Hire: Woman on Top, or Studs for Hire: Woman in Charge, in e-format.

Drum Roll!!!!

Congratulations to Sue Ahn, and Cynthya Petzen! Woo-Hoo! Contact me and tell me your book preference.

I'll be hosting another contest sometime this summer, so keep a look out for that. But in the meantime, I'm interested in what you'd like to see for my next contest. This is going to be a readers's choice contest. You tell me what you'd like to see for a prize, (within reason, sorry no cars, money or diamonds etc., hey, I'm a starving author!) I'm looking more for prize ideas like book choice, chocolates, coffee, etc. I'd also like you'd to tell me how you want to play the contest. Do you want to read an excerpt and answer a question? Go on another scavenger hunt? Simply enter your name in the drawing? Or do you have another fun, fabulous idea? I'm all ears. Please share. I want to hear from you, the readers!

Sherry

Pot O' Gold Contest

2008-03-17T10:42:00.005-05:00

It's contest time again. To celebrate St. Patrick's Day and the arrival of Spring, I'm giving away two e-books (your choice) to two lucky readers. You can choose from my romantic comedy series Studs for Hire: Woman on Top, or Studs for Hire Woman in Charge from Black Velvet Seductions! All you have to do is visit my website, www.sherryjames.com, and find the 3 pots of gold hidden around the site. Email me your answer and you'll be entered! That's it! Deadline to enter is March 31, 2008.
May the luck of the Irish be with you!
Sherry

I'm a Wanted Author!

2008-03-04T09:11:00.006-06:00

Wow! What can I say? I'm a Wanted Author. No, I didn't commit any crime, unless you count writing as a crime, but I'm wanted because of my last name. Yep. The good 'ol name of James has gotten my face plastered on a Wanted Poster. Even though I'm not related to the infamous Jesse James, at least not that I know of, I am now a member of the Wanted Poster Club. Well, in a good way. Fellow romance author Marcia James came up with the cute idea of the James Gang. Each month she interviews fellow authors who have James in their names. I'm pleased to be her guest for the month of March. Check out the interview at her web site at http://www.marciajames.net/James_gang.html

Marcia is quite a lady. She is fun and dynamic. I had a blast sitting next to her at the Romantic Times BOOKlovers convention book fair last April in Houston, TX. I don't know how many pairs of thumb cuffs she gave away while signing copies of her book At Her Command from Cerridwen Press, but it was a bunch!

If you could be wanted for something, hopefully good ;-), what would be? A great mom? A good neighbor? A sex symbol? For me, it's a great mom/spouse/friend, a great writer, and a as a compassionate friend of animals. Let me hear from you! I'm always looking for great ideas for characters.

Sherry James

Chatting on Saturday

2008-02-29T10:07:00.005-06:00

It's Friday! And that means I will be chatting off and on all day tomorrow, Saturday, March 1st, at Beth Wylde's e-mail group during the Black Velvet Seductions Publisher spotlight day. You do have to join the group to chat, http://groups.yahoo.com/group/bethwylde/ , but it'll be a fun day of Q & A, excerpts, and prizes. Be sure to check in and you just might win a free book!

I hope to see you there!
Sherry

5 Hearts for Studs for Hire: Woman in Charge

2008-02-26T14:30:00.005-06:00

Golly. The reviews for my Studs for Hire books have been slow in coming but they certainly have been worth the wait. I’ve just received a review on Woman in Charge from the Romance Studio and I’m thrilled.

“Ms. Sherry James has written a marvelously entertaining, fast-paced book which was almost impossible to put down. I love her writing style—she introduces alpha males, but does not minimize the abilities and strengths of the women she pairs the men with. Her characters are dynamic and confident in their abilities to perform. The characters are believable and compliment the sub characters in her stories. . . . I loved this book and anxiously await the release of the third book. I highly recommend it to all.”---Brenda Talley, The Romance Studio

To read the complete review, visit http://theromancestudio.com:80/reviews/reviews/studsforhirejames.htm

I’m so happy Brenda commented that she felt Woman in Charge is a fast-paced book. I love to read fast-paced books and I love to write them, too. It’s nice to know that in her opinion I succeeded. Since writing a book can take weeks, or even months, it doesn’t always seem like the book is meeting that fast-paced goal. In fact, it can often seem like it’s slugging along at a snail’s pace. But, to me that is one positive sign that I am writing a good book. The harder to write, usually the better the book turns out to be.

Do you have any fast-paced favorites? Some of mine are Lois Grieman’s UN Mystery series: Unzipped, Unplugged, Unscrewed, and Unmanned. Julie Miller also does a good job of delivering a fast-paced read in all of her books. Janet Evanovich also delivers an awesome fast-paced read in her Stephanie Plum books.

So what are yours? Do mine make your list? Come on, share! I’m always on the look out for good books.

Sherry

Five Red Roses for Studs for Hire: Woman on Top!

2008-02-14T12:43:00.003-06:00

Hey, everyone! I’ve just received another review on Studs for Hire: Woman on Top! I’m thrilled that Red Roses for Authors gave Woman on Top 5 Red Roses.

“Do not be mislead by the title! It is a clever pun. This is sassy, fun and sensual. I loved this romance by an author new to me.” Five Red Roses, Linda.

To read the complete review, go to http://redrosesforauthors.blogspot.com/2008/02/studs-for-hirewoman-on-top.html

Whew. I tell ya, writing a book is hard work. You pour out your heart and soul into every page, every paragraph, and even every word. It’s nice for us authors to be acknowledged by our peers and review sites to give our fragile egos a boost!

I’m curious. Do you use reviews to help you to decide to give a book a try or not? If so, do you only read 4 & 5 Star books, or do the 1 Star books pique your curiosity because you're dying to know what’s so wrong with it to warrant such a low rating? Have you ever read a book and totally disagreed with the rating it's been given?

Happy Hearts Day!
Sherry

Another Recommended Read

2008-01-30T12:09:00.000-06:00

Another book I just recently read was Spirited Away by Cindy Miles. This was Cindy's first book, but it's just delightful! And very well written. I discovered this great book by receiving one of her bookmarks at a writers' retreat this past fall. Since I've always been a fan of ghost romances, this one instantly caught my eye. I'm so glad I got that bookmark! I was a big fan of author Angie Ray's when she was writing her ghost romances back in the 1990's. I've missed them. But Cindy is filling the void for me.

Spirited Away is a fun, tender romance that keeps you wondering if Andie Monroe, a forensic archaeologist, will ever be able to really touch her knight in shining armour, Tristan de Barre, who has been haunting the halls of his castle since 1292. The sexual tension in this novel just sizzles off the page. And Andi and Tristan are joined by some wonderful secondary characters--like Tristan's band of brave and ghostly knights, and Jameson, the staunch but tender-hearted butler.

I loved everything about this book. I couldn't put it down. Bravo, Cindy. I'm looking forward to reading Into Thin Air. Visit Cindy's web site at www.cindy-miles.com

Do you like romances with a ghostly character, either as one of the main characters, or a secondary character? If so, why? I've always thought it'd be cool to have a friendship with a ghost. Just think of the unique conversations you could have with someone who experienced history first hand?

Country Fling

2008-01-15T09:42:00.000-06:00

Hey, ya'll! I'm hard at work on the second book in my Fling Duo! Country Fling is coming to life and I hope to have it done soon. If you read and liked Cowboy Fling, I hope you're looking forward to Dorie's story. I'm not sure when it will be available, but I'll keep you posted as things progress.

I'm excited about Country Fling because I love my hero, Vin Sheridan. He's 100% cowboy, but he's a cowboy who's heart has been hardened by some tough times. Hmm. I wonder if Dorie Holister has what it takes to soften his heart and help him love again? Guess I'll have to finish writing the story to find out! I guess you could say this is kind of a Beauty and the Beast story, only cowboy style.

In the meantime, I'd love hear what you liked, or didn't like, about Cowboy Fling. Did you have a favorite scene? A favorite character? Just let me know!

Sherry

Happy Birthday Elvis!

2008-01-08T21:56:00.000-06:00

Wow! It's hard to believe if Elvis were still with us he'd be 73 today. Where does the time go?

I hope by now some of you have had a chance to read Studs for Hire: Woman in Charge. If so, I'd love to hear from you. Please share with me what your favorite scene was in the book, and why.

Sherry

Elvis Contest--WINNER!

2007-12-27T17:24:00.000-06:00

I have a contest winner! Congratulations to Anne Law of Anchorage, Alaska. Anne is the winner of my Elvis contest. She will receive an autographed copy of Studs for Hire: Woman in Charge, Christmas chocolates (yum!), and an Elvis guitar ornament.

My thanks to all who entered. It was a fun contest! My next contest will be in the spring, so keep an eye open.

There's Still Time!

2007-12-07T13:54:00.001-06:00

There's still time to enter my Elvis Contest! Check out all of the details on my web site www.sherryjames.com. I'm also still looking for your Elvis sightings. Be sure and let me know where you've seen Elvis, the man himself, a tribute artist, his image, or whatever.

Sherry

Elvis Sightings!

2007-11-27T10:13:00.000-06:00

Hey, Readers!

When I posted that I was looking for Elvis sightings, I guess I posted too fast and didn't clarify. Sorry about that. I'm looking for any and all Elvis sightings. Your Elvis sighting can be of the "King" himself, an Elvis tribute artist, a statue or picture of Elvis, or mention of him in a song. Like my picture I've posted here. This is a shot of an Elvis statue gracing the top of a the salad bar at a Ruby Tuesday's resturant. Basically, I'm open to anything/anywhere you've seen/heard the real Elvis or a look alike or his image. Funny. Quirky. Unusual. Specatuclar. Endearing. I'm open. Think hard. Elvis' image is everywhere. We all have to have had some kind of Elvis sighting. Agree?

And don't forget to enter the contest at www.sherryjames.com

Sherry

Elvis Contest--ENTER NOW!

2007-11-23T09:54:00.000-06:00

Hey, Readers.

Again, I apologize for the delay in updating my blog. It's been a tough month. My dad passed away on November 12th, and as you can imagine, I have had other things on my mind. But my dad was a writer, too, and he would want me to move ahead and get busy promoting my new Studs for Hire book, Woman in Charge. So to help do that I'm hosting an Elvis contest on my web site . Hop on over to www.sherryjames.com to get entered. You could be the winner of an autographed copy of Studs for Hire: Woman in Charge, Christmas Chocolates, AND a cool Elvis Guitar ornament! All just in time for Christmas. The Contest runs Nov. 23 - Dec. 23, 2007. Oh, and btw, you can get your name in the hat twice, too! Check out all the details on my web site to find out how.

Have you experienced an Elvis sighting? If so, you can share all the details with me here, or email me at sherryjames@hamilton.net and I'll post all sightings on my web site.

Good Luck with the Contest!
Sherry

Elvis is Coming!

2007-11-09T23:43:00.000-06:00

An Elvis contest that is! Keep watching because I'm going to kick off the release of my new book, Studs for Hire: Woman in Charge, with an Elvis Contest. You could win an autographed copy of Woman in Charge, and an Elvis Guitar ornament that just happens to be an Elvis Presley signature product. Woo-Hoo!

Studs for Hire: Woman in Charge
Has Elvis really left the building . . . or is his spirit playing matchmaker?Black Velvet Seductions, November 2007

Off to See Stephanie Bond!

2007-10-25T13:30:00.000-05:00

Hey, bloggers!

I'm sorry I've been absent for a few days, but my father has been ill and in the hospital. I am just now catching up on a few things and getting back to some normal "writer stuff"! I'm excited that this weekend I'm going to get the chance to attend a two day writer's retreat featuring author Stephanie Bond! I have heard Stephanie speak many times on tape from the RWA conferences, but I've never had the chance to hear her in person. She does some great talks on not only the craft of writing, but the business side as well. This Saturday she'll be talking about the difference between a good book and a great book, self-editing, and minding your writing business. Look out Stephanie! I have a few questions for you.

I'm also looking forward to a girl's night out with two of my writing pals, Margaret and Noelle. I'm sure we'll do a lot of brainstorming and share a ton of laughs. Ah, this means no cooking, and no wrangling the kids! Woo-hoo! But I'm sure very little sleep. ;-)

So, are you a Stephanie Bond fan? If so, tell me which books of hers are your favorites. I personally can't wait to get signed copies of her two Voodoo books---In Deep Voodoo, and Finding Your Mojo. Right now I'm in the process of reading Got Your Number!

And just a quick heads-up. I have a new contest coming to my website, http://www.sherryjames.com, in November. Be sure to check in to see how you can win a signed copy of Studs for Hire: Woman in Charge and other goodies!

Sherry

EPONA Horse Rescue

2007-10-10T14:00:00.000-05:00

Ever since I was a little girl I've been a horse lover. I was born around horses, grew up on horses, and I still own horses. They truly are one of the most magnificent animals to gallop across our planet. But unfortunately, horses are not immune to the abuse and neglect some people choose to inflict upon them. However, there is hope. Earlier this year I became acquainted with Lin Beaune of EPONA Horse Rescue. Lin is truly making a difference to save the lives of many, many horses. Like many rescue organizations, Lin's survives mainly on adoptions, and of course, donations. I'm proud my publisher, Black Velvet Seductions, has been helping with the cause.

Right now Epona is holding a raffle as another means to raise funds. If you are a horse lover and are in the market for a nice saddle, please consider buying a ticket! First prize is your choice of a 15" Circle Y Western saddle or an Australian Snowy River Outback saddle. These saddles were donated by a generous woman from North Carolina and are in excellent condition. Saddles can be seen at www.eponahorserescue.com. Tickets are $5 each and can be ordered on line by emailing Epona Horse Rescue at eponahorserescue@msn.com and paying through Pay Pal. Or you can write to Epona and mail your order to :

Epona Horse Rescue
PO Box 2618
Kearney Ne 68848

They are also holding a Open House Buffet on Saturday, November 3, 6-10 PM at the Brewers Coffee House in Minden, NE. Tickets for the buffet are $10.00 per person. The raffle drawing for the saddles will be held that evening. You need not be present to win. Thanks for listening!

"The best thing for the inside of a man is the outside of a horse."---Lord Palmerston

Author Sponsored Contests Poll WINNER!

2007-10-08T15:30:00.000-05:00

Hey! First of all, a great big thanks to all of you who took the time to stop by and vote in my poll, and to post comments. I got some terrific feedback. Thank you, thank you. This will help make planning my November contest so much easier.

And now. For the moment you've all been waiting for! The winner of the fun Halloween Goodie bag is---(imagine drum roll here)

GIN!!!

Woo-Hoo! Congratulations, Gin! Please email me at sherryjames@hamilton.net with your snail mail address so I know where to send your Tricks & Treats!

Again, thanks, everyone! This was fun. Keep your eyes open from more fun stuff to come in the near future!

Sherry

Author Sponsored Contests Poll

2007-10-01T15:26:00.000-05:00

The upcoming release of my third book, Studs for Hire: Woman in Charge, means that I'm gearing up for a new contest! Yes, that's right, you could be the winner of some great prizes this coming November. But first, I wanted to find out exactly just how much work readers are willing to go to win a prize. Please take the poll on the right. And if you feel compelled to give me more input by posting comments here, that would be fantastic. I'd love to hear what you all think. Are you willing to go the extra mile to enter? If yes, what prompts you to do so? The fun of it? The chance to win something marvelous? And if not, let me know that too. Is your computer time limited? No patience for that kind of stuff? Be honest. Where do you typically hear about contests? Author's web site, friends, review sites, author's e-newsletter? For all of you who post a comment here on my blog, I'll put your name in the hat for a fun Halloween Goodie Bag full of tricks & treats! Don't dally though. The poll closes on October 8, 2007. I can't wait to hear from you!

Love them Cowboys!

2007-09-24T11:19:00.000-05:00

I make no secret of it. I love Cowboys! To me there is just something about a nice fittin' pair of Wrangler jeans on a man, a sexy smile on his face shadowed by the brim of his hat, and a teasing glint in his eye. Add in the fact he can handle animals weighing in at over 1,000 lbs, ride a horse at breakneck speed, and still be gentle and caring with his woman, oh boy, the true American cowboy is number one in my book! So, it's only natural I write books about cowboys. My first published book featuring a cowboy hero is Cowboy Fling. I'm thrilled I've gotten such great reviews on this book. But I was even more thrilled that many of the reviewers found my hero, Lane Hart, so sexy. Nicole of www.mybookcravings.com said,

"Oh, God. Lane, what can I say, he is a "piece" of man that any woman would want."

Thanks, Nicole. It's nice to know I did all right in creating Lane Hart. Of course, I had a little help from George Strait. George was my primary inspiration for Lane. And what great inspiration. One of the things I love about George is that he is a true cowboy. He's not just a country singer putting on a hat to create a look. George is truly all that the hat stands for and more.

Now, that I'm working on Country Fling, the sequal to Cowboy Fling, I'm looking for a second cowboy to give me my inspiration in creating another sexy, wonderful hero to match wits with Dorie Holister, my heroine. I'm sure Vin Sheridan, my hero, will still have a little George Strait in him, but he's going to be more of the brooding/lost soul type of guy. Do you have a favorite cowboy who fits that mold? It can be a real cowboy, or a TV/movie cowboy. I loved Kevin Coster in Wyatt Earp, and in Open Range. Be still my heart! And I loved both Kurt Russell and Val Kilmer in Tombstone. And of course, I'm a huge fan of The Magnificent Seven TV series. In fact, my hero takes his first name from one of the cowboys on that show. Oh, and I love all the men on Bonanza! Someday I'm going to write a series of historicals with my own Cartwright/Magnificent Seven type of men populating a massive ranch. But that's another post.

So, tell me what cowboys you think are sexy and why? I can't wait to hear from you!
Happy Trails,
Sherry

Office View

2007-09-21T16:19:00.000-05:00

I think it's always kind of fun to discover where fellow writers create their amazing stories. Many love coffee shops, but since I'm not a coffee drinker that holds no appeal for me. I prefer the solitfude of my own home. These days I mainly write my books on my lap top so I can be portable. With small kids, being portable is very important! I need to be near where the action is. But when I can, I go to the quiet of my office, carting the lap top with me. This is where my desk top computer sits waiting for me, too. I handle the majority of the business side of writing on my desk top. I like keeping that precious lap top as clutter free as possible! Plus there's something mental about keeping the lap top for writing only. I try not to play there. That's reserved for my main computer. My desk top computer also handles all of the email I receive, is the holding cell for all the web sites I maintain, and dutifully stores all the photos I take, plus is the home of my book covers, pub photos and all that good stuff.

One of the things I love about my office is the view I have. Especially this time of the year. It might not be a mountain top dusted with snow, or a lake dotted with sparkling gems courtesy of the sun, but to me, it's just as beautiful. It's a corn field. Yes, that's right. A corn field. I get to look over a vast field of corn and watch its progress throughout the growing season. I get to witness the first sprouts of spring, the first touches of yellow as the tassels emerge, and watch the deep, rich green of the leaves transform to a sea of gold that puts me in the mood for scarecrows and pumpkins. I love to watch the late afternoon/evening sun highlight the west side of the trees and throw shadows to the east and across the road. On days the weather cooperates, I love to open the window and be serenaded by a chorus of crickets chirping. They are usually accompanied by a little wind rustling through those drying corn stalks, making a beautiful autumn song. An extra bonus is the feel of the cooler breezes sneaking in and wrapping around me. Add a little music, a favorite candle, and I'm ready to write my fingers to the bone!

Do you have a favorite view that inspires you?

The Fun of Book Trailers

2007-09-15T13:39:00.000-05:00

Okay, I'm finally getting back to actually posting on my blog. I've spent the last week tweaking, searching for just the right look that reflects me. I think I've found it. Anyway, today I'm excited to talk about book trailers. They are the newest, hottest trend in promoting books. They are basically like a movie trailer and are designed to give you a brief, but exciting synopsis of the book that it will, hopefully, intrigue you so much you can't live unless you read that story!

Being the creative soul that I am, I couldn't resist the temptation to do my own book trailers. I've done one so far for my first Ellora's Cave release, Cowboy Fling. After a lot of trial and error, I (for the most part) figured out the software and managed to create a trailer that reflects the book really well. It's short, snappy and fun. The biggest challenge was figuring out how to convert the trailer to the proper file formats for the various sights like Google video, Yahoo video, and You Tube, which I still haven't mastered. I think my choice of software has something to do with my troubles with You Tube. But I'll keep hunting and pecking in my software and hopefully will find a way.

Now that I have a cover for my new Studs for Hire book, Woman in Charge, I'm going to be creating a trailer for the Stud series. Keep your eyes open! My challenge so far with that trailer is finding just the right music. I did find one, but sorry, I have a hard time paying sixty bucks for 30 seconds worth of music. Guess I didn't like the tune THAT much! So, it's back to searching.

So, tell me what you like about book trailers? Live action? Still photos? Dramatic or upbeat music? Do you have a favorite book trailer? If so, tell me about it. Inquiring minds want to know! And enjoy Cowboy Fling!

Sherry

Getting my feet wet!

2007-09-05T15:12:00.000-05:00

Well, I've finally taken the plunge! I've jumped into the blogger world. It's taken me a while to get here, but then, good things come to those who wait! Actually, I had to finish my last book, Studs for Hire: Woman in Charge, before I could take the time to explore all this fun stuff. Duty calls. I do web site work as a sideline, to help support my ficiton habit, but this is my first foray into the blogger world. Hang in there with me as I find my way around this territory.

And since the purpose of my blog is to connect with you, the readers, I want you to let me know what you'd like to see here. And please feel free to ask me about my books, characters, writing process, life in general, and what brand of beer I drink!

Sherry