Rachelle Chase ... life is about the chase

New Web Site and Blog

2007-11-24T05:10:00.000-08:00

I've recently launched a brand new web site - and moved all the blog entries here to the new site, so I won't be maintaining this blog anymore. Please stop by http://www.rachellechase.com/ and check out the site and the blog - and let me know what you think, while you're there.

Also, SIN CLUB comes out November 27, 2007. Woo-hoo. Take a peek at the brand new book trailer - cool, huh?

Happy Holidays!

Best,
Rachelle

Renee Berglund, Artist Extraordinaire of Monkapaws

2007-10-18T14:44:00.000-07:00

Renee Berglund, artist and owner of Monkapaws, is a warm, wonderful, enthusiastic, and talented woman I met at a street fair a few months ago in San Francisco. I instantly fell in love with her work and asked her to create some pieces for me. And voila, she designed and created the beautiful mirror and pendant shown below.

Since she's such a terrific person, I wanted to introduce her to you, too!

Rachelle: How did you come up with the name “Monkapaws” and what does it mean?

Renee: I have a giant Bernese Mountain dog and his name is Guinness. But I call him "Monkapaws.” Many pet owners may relate – to the numerous pet names that one can develop out of the tender devotion for our furry babies. The name developed because Guinness is just that in every sense – he's a crazy monkey and always bouncing around on his back paws – if one can picture that image. He also has enormous giant white paws. So, somehow, the name “Monkapaws” stuck and he is referred to it by many.

Hearing it in a business context makes my husband and I laugh to this day. It is hard not to- knowing most clients don’t realize that “Monkapaws” is in reference to our enormous bouncing monkey with giant white paws.

Rachelle: What made you decide to start the business? How long have you been in business?

Renee: I developed Monkapaws about two years ago when I was tinkering around with old typewriters. My first piece of jewelry was a pendant for myself. Many people loved it and I made many as gifts. My unique designs made it very special and then I decided to try and sell them. I started out very small, hitting local shops and telling anyone that would lend an ear about it. My designs then became increasingly popular and I eventually ended up selling my pieces to the public at art and wine festivals in the Bay Area and also at Santana Row in San Jose. I have a loyal following of customers that love the pieces almost as much as I do. So it is very rewarding in all aspects.

Rachelle: I'm now one of your loyal customers - your jewelry is beautiful. How do you come up with the ideas for your pieces?

Renee: I guess it is just one of those things, like thinking out of the box. I think I have taken the typewriter keys to the next level and really enhance their beauty through my work. It is almost as if they are individual antiques and deserve a special place to exhibit their real beauty. That is where I feel my art comes in. Most of my work is a direct reflection of the beauty that I love and want to express in them. But the real beauty lies mostly on the simplicity of the typewriter key itself. I am just the 'middle man.'

Rachelle: What do you like most about making a piece of jewelry? Is there anything you like making more than others? (i.e., necklaces vs. bracelets, etc.)

Renee: I looovveee making the altered art collage pendant pieces. That is my true passion, where my expression has no boundaries or limits. I guess it allows me to unleash my inhibitions and express the humor I see in life that can be expressed in my work. I also do not create anything that I personally would not wear – so I guess that lets me keep it real.

Rachelle: How would you describe your work? In other words, what makes a Renee Berglund piece unique?

Renee: I think I have taken the vintage typewriter key to the next level, the life ever after. To me, it is like wearing a piece of history and I just add embellishments to enhance the story/detail.

Rachelle: When you’re not creating gorgeous pieces of art, what do you like to do?

Renee: I love riding my horse. And when I am not doing that, I love hitting garage sales and flea markets, looking for that discarded item that I may incorporate into my work. I love yoga. I am also a labor activist and am involved in several aspects of the American labor movement that directly affects our community and our essence of the “American Dream.” And I love to immerse myself in my collection of historical fiction in the wee hours.

But if I had to state my favorite, it would be hanging out with my husband and my Monkapaws. That is the best! My steadfast relationships with them both have given me confidence and encouragement. Without them, it would have been impossible to have come this far. And without them, Monkapaws would probably not exist. So, thank you, Tobbe and Monkapaws.

Rachelle: And thank you, Renee, for sharing a bit about yourself and your work!

PG Forte: Waiting For the Big One

2007-08-27T22:42:00.000-07:00

I've got a treat for visitors because today, I have a special guest -- author, PG Forte. PG Forte, whose name rhymes with "foreplay," writes novels and novellas in the romantic suspense, psychic fiction, and erotic romance genres. Her current book, Waiting For the Big One, published by Liquid Silver Books, is an erotic romance about Gabby's quest to find "true love and ultimate pleasure. "

How long have you been writing and what made you choose erotic romance?

PG: Well, I've been writing forever but in terms of seriously writing books, it's been almost eight years. I'd written most of a nine part paranormal romantic suspense series and was searching around for a new project. Several of my critique partners pushed...er, encouraged me to try writing an erotic romance and the result was Waiting for the Big One.

You write “dark-edged paranormal romantic-suspense,” romantic-comedy, and more. Why do you like to write different subgenres of erotic romance?

PG: Variety? lol! I have a hard time settling on favorites in any area. I have several favorite colors, several favorite perfumes. I love coffee and tea, red wine and white, Spring and Fall...and Summer...and Winter. Well, you get the picture.

So it's the same with writing. I wrote my first book when I couldn't find exactly what I wanted to read. And, typically, it turned out to be something that combined genres. I just don't like being confined to any ONE thing.

What do you like most about writing? What do you like the least about writing?

PG: I guess I like the characters the best. I fall in love with almost all of my characters and it's just fun getting to know them. But creating worlds and sharing it with readers...that's a real close second.

I suppose what I like the least is how easy it is to lose your idea. Sometimes I'll be working away with a whole scene clear in my head and yet the slightest interruption can make it just evaporate before I can get it pinned down. That's painful!!

I love the premise behind you new book, Waiting For the Big One, where your heroine, tired of the “standard issue, plain vanilla kind,” is waiting for the “ultra orgasm.” How did you come up with that idea? Can you tell us a little bit about the book?

PG: Well, I had the title and the seed idea--that everyone in LA was waiting for something, either their big break, the big earthquake we all know is coming, or something else--for a long time. When I was searching around for an erotic romance idea, it seemed like the perfect jumping off point. And then I read about various Tantra Yoga ideas--female ejaculation, Amrita, and so forth--and the whole thing came together.

Basically the story is about an aspiring actress named Gabby. She lives in LA and works as a dog walker to pay the bills. She's in lust with her Yoga instructor, Derek, but they've become friends and she doesn't want to jeopardize their friendship by getting into a sexual relationship with him.

Derek wants Gabby as well, but he wants her to recognize her feelings for him go beyond friendship and he figures he can wait her out.

Unfortunately for Derek, however, Gabby's getting pretty sick of waiting. So, when an adorable, hunky guitar player moves into her apartment building, Gabby decides to go after him--and she enlists Derek's help to get him.

That's when the real fun starts!

Your friends know you as the “Queen of Angst and Torment.” How did you get that title?

PG: Because I like to torture my characters. Especially my heroes. There's nothing quite like a tortured hero. lol! I have to admit, however, that there's a great deal more angst in the longer, romantic suspense books. My current series is fairly short--not as much room for real torture there. But I do try.

When readers pick up a PG Forte book, what can they expect to find?

PG: Well, there will be heat--that seems to be one of the constants, which is why my critique partners were so insistent that I write erotic romance. You'll find strong, well-rounded characters because, as I mentioned before, I adore my characters. And, hopefully, even in the darker stories you'll find humor because I love to laugh and I love to make my readers laugh as well--oh, especially through their tears. Come to think of it, maybe it's not just my characters that I love to torment. Hmm...

Thanks to PG Forte for being a guest today. For more information about PG and her books, please visit:

Website: http://www.pgforte.com/
Newsgroup: http://groups.yahoo.com/group/pgforte
MySpace: http:/www.myspace.com/pgforte

Worst Dates: Parents, Prison and ... Penis?

2007-06-26T02:18:00.000-07:00

On Sunday’s episode of “Chatting with Chase,” I interviewed Todd and Terry, the hilarious guys who have turned a box of romance novels into dating gold on “The Lonesome Losers Show,” which airs Saturday nights on http://www.readersentertainment.tv/.

For amusing highlights of the advice they shared, please visit my MySpace blog entry, “Interview with Todd and Terry – The Lonesome Losers” or listen firsthand here:

At any rate, some folks were nice enough to send in “worst date” experiences before my show. While some were covered on “Chatting with Chase,” there were some good ones that we did not have time to cover. For example:

“… He brought his parents with him. He picked his nose, studied it, then ate it. He had coupons for the meal but still asked for split checks … I told him because of his horrible dating techniques, I am now a lesbian.” ~Sandy

“… Dinner is almost over … he says to me in this very matter-of-fact tone, ‘By the way, did I tell you that I spent two years in prison for almost killing a man?’” ~Vicki

“… guy showed up wearing old ragged jeans and a faded out shirt … He took me through the drive through at Arby’s for dinner … He started driving out of town through the back country … He said he was taking me to see his family’s mountain cabin …” ~Crystal

“A while ago, I joined an online dating service. There was this guy who emailed me … his picture showed a nice-looking, tall guy … [on the date] this overweight, short guy rushes toward me, grabs me by the shoulders, and kisses me on the cheek … He told me he lives with his mother and masturbates while looking at Penthouse, but now, he was masturbating while looking at my online pictures.” ~Patricia

“I was walking along the marina on a first date when the guy went to hold my hand. Me: Aw, your hands are cold. Him: Yeah, I think all my blood just rushed to my penis.” ~Ann

Now, I think that these are pretty bad. Care to share your worst date?

My Playboy Radio Play Date Debut

2007-06-02T16:05:00.000-07:00

When my publicist, Victor Gulotta, emailed me to say I was going to be a guest on Playboy Radio, my mouth fell open.

“Oh my God, I am so not a Bunny!”

He reassured me. Not to worry, I was going to be a Play Date.

“Oh my God. What’s a Play Date? I’m not a Play Date, either!”

He assured me that he and the producer felt I’d be perfect for the show. And even more good news: 2.5 million listeners.

2.5 million listeners?!

Needless to say, for my first ever radio appearance to be with Playboy, in front of millions of listeners, I was both excited and nervous.

But off to Los Angeles I flew.

At the radio station, host Tara Mack and show producer, Kevin Dalton, walked me through the details. There would be rhyming games, guessing games and more, all geared to test the ‘dating’ skills of male callers. Callers would provide answers and I would judge the appeal of the answer to a woman, thereby deciding the caller’s fate: Whether he’d remain on the line and/or win prizes or get disconnected, thereby ending the ‘date.’

Five … four … three … two … one … We’re on the air.

The show is fast-paced, with a Beat the Clock kind of feel. Feeling like Speed Racer, I zipped through the answer to Tara’s question on where I got my ideas for my books, unknowingly racing towards Life’s Most Embarrassing Moment #1.

In the midst of a game where callers had to create unique verses to Roses Are Red, Tara turned to me, “Rachelle, do you know a word that rhymes with ‘poet’?”

I smiled, saw the word 'Moët' in my mind, and blurted, “Mow it!”

Oh. My. God. I’d just mispronounced a word that – when pronounced correctly – doesn’t even rhyme with ‘poet’ in front of 2.5 million listeners. My panicked brain searched for a way to save face – like, maybe I could suddenly develop a Southern accent and claim my mispronounciation was due to my accent.

Tara, gracious as well as a radio personality extraordinaire, zoomed in with the save, letting me cop the writer’s block excuse.

Onward to Life’s Most Embarrassing Moment #2.

Determined to redeem myself after the 'Moët' debacle, I saw my opportunity. A caller had to rhyme with ‘yellow’ but couldn’t.

“I know!” I said, excitedly. “Roses are red, violets are yellow, when I look at you my legs turn to jello.”

If I had been Tara, I would have rolled my eyes by now. Instead, she gave me a prize that made me laugh. “Congratulations, Rachelle. You’ve won a date with yourself.”

Despite these blunders, I did, indeed have fun. I was able to somewhat coherently state my thoughts on the appeal – or lack thereof – of caller’s statements. And on one of the games where I had to make my ‘date’ guess the word I was thinking of without saying it in order to test his listening skills, I took him to the final round. And watching Tara juggle technology, sound effect prompts, signals from the producer, deliver face-saving comments for me, handle callers, and deliver witty comebacks, all the while being polished, unruffled, and entertaining was a sight to see.

So, many thanks to Victor, Tara, April, and Playboy Radio, for the awesome experience. And special thanks to Kevin and Tee, for giving me a crash tour of the Playboy television studio on the day before a holiday weekend.

Rachelle Chase on Playboy Radio 5/25/07!

2007-05-24T01:47:00.000-07:00

I've got some exciting news to share ...

On May 25, 2007, I'll be Tara Mack's guest on Playboy Play Date, 2:00-3:00 p.m. PT, on Sirius Radio 198. Here's how the show works: Host Tara Mack presents dating scenarios, callers supply answers (and may win prizes), and I select winners based on the best answers. I'm flying to L.A. to do the game show live, in-studio -- and, afterwards, I just might get a tour of the Playboy television studio.

I hope you'll tune - or better yet, call in to the show at 1(877) 205.9796. It should be wild!

SEX LOUNGE Finding Derek CONTEST

2007-05-08T07:13:00.000-07:00

SEX LOUNGE is finally out! And to celebrate, I've just launched the SEX LOUNGE Finding Derek CONTEST, an online contest that seeks the American male who resembles Derek Mitchell, the hero of my book.

We're looking for the perfect Derek. And we intend to find him. Participants will be asked to post photos, audio clips, text, and video (later) to convince celebrity and other online judges that there's no better Derek anywhere in the world.

Current judges include:

Bill Rosenfield, Executive Producer of Grammy award-winning Broadway productions, such as Oprah Winfrey's THE COLOR PURPLE

Gail Jones, Owner/Director of Talent+Plus/Los Latinos Agency

Stephanie Block, Editor-in-Chief of Tango Diva

More judges and prizes are still being added.

We're looking for great guys to enter and one lucky judge to enter to join our celebrity judges. Both will win fantastic prizes! And, once voting begins, so will web site visitors.

Help me celebrate by entering and visiting www.FindingDerek.com!

Best,
Rachelle

Life Will [Continue] to be About the Chase ... Won't It?

2007-04-13T02:42:00.000-07:00

I’ve always loved the elderly.

Some of my happiest memories are summers spent with my grandparents ... Holding Grandaddy’s hand and chattering non-stop as we walked to Mr. Lee’s store, then sitting on his lap and listening to stories of Pancho Villa. When I tired of that, I’d scramble onto the sofa next to my great grandmother, Te-Te. Armed with a pair of tweezers, I was honored with the task of plucking her chin hairs.

Other times, the days were spent with my other grandmother – going shopping downtown, rolling around on the department store floor in the throes of a temper tantrum ... uh, anyway ...

Never did I think that I would be elderly.

And I still don’t think I will be – until little things surface to remind me. Like, when I go in for my annual eye exam, and my optometrist says, “You know, you’re going to need bifocals soon.” Or when, in the middle of a dreamless sleep, I suddenly wake up, sweating and unbearably hot, and think, “Oh no! Was that a hot flash?!” Or like, when I move close to the mirror to put on my mascara and exclaim, “My God, is that a chin hair?!”

The final straw – the thing that finally convinced me – was the sudden appearance of A.A.R.P. announcements in my mailbox.

But I don’t think I’ll mind being old – it’s the getting there that is sometimes shocking – since I’ve had such great role models. None of my grandparents let a little thing like age deter them. Sure, it slowed them down, but it didn't stop them. Just like is hasn’t stopped Elsie McLean, the golfer who landed her first hole-in-one at 102 (did you see the video? She gets around better than I do!) or the 95 year old woman who set a trap and caught a thief.

That’s how I want to be when I’m older. Still pursuing the things I want to do in life. Still living and believing that “life is about the chase...”

Do you think about getting older?

In Search of a Great Opening

2007-03-21T23:22:00.000-07:00

My guest on “Chatting with Chase” this month was Leigh Michaels, author of 75+ romance books and On Writing Romance, her recent release from Writer’s Digest Books. (You can catch her interview here if you missed it). During the interview, Leigh read opening paragraphs that had been submitted prior to the show and critiqued them on the air.

Well, since then, I’ve been thinking a lot about openings. And my struggle with my to-be-revised-for-the-hundredth-time opening to Running Away has provided me with … what, class? … Right! Yet another procrastination opportunity. For now, I must stop working on my book and go comb my personal romance library for other author’s books that contain openings that I like.

Here are some of the favorites I’ve (re-)discovered ….

“How can you tell it’s a scrotum?” Reggie turned the page sideways, then a full 180 degrees, then back to what she assumed was the original orientation. – Delicious, by Jami Alden

This immediately grabbed my attention, making me wonder why Reggie can’t tell it’s a scrotum from whatever she’s looking at, why she’s looking at it to begin with, and where the story’s going to go from here.

One moment he was a faceless stranger standing on a Mexican street corner; the next he was opening the passenger side door and sliding into the rented orange Volkswagon Rabbit beside her. – Wild Orchids, by Karen Robards

Need I say more? Who wouldn’t be hooked, wanting to read on to see what this stranger is going to do to the heroine? Ms. Robards has led me to suspect an adventure will follow (and it does).

AN ENORMOUS .357 MAGNUM, AIMED POINT-BLANK BETWEEN her eyes – that was Gus Featherstone’s first clue that something had gone awry with her plans. The second was the black ski mask the gunman wore and the terrifying glint in his dark eyes. Apparently she should have been more specific when she arranged to have herself kidnapped. – Blush, by Suzanne Forster

Similar to Wild Orchids, I’ve got another potential ‘kidnap’ tale here. (Oh goody!) But not only am I thrown into the midst of the action, Ms. Forster has given me the premise for the whole book in that last sentence. And since it’s such a unique premise, I can’t wait to read on.

The human head is of the same approximate size and weight as a roaster chicken. I have never before had occasion to make the comparison, for never before today, have I seen a head in a roasting pan. But here are forty of them, one per pan, resting face-up on what looks to be a small pet-food bowl … - Stiff, by Mary Roach

I was hooked on Stiff from the back cover blurb but when I started reading this paragraph, I knew I had to buy the book. As if a book on dead bodies and what happens to them wasn’t compelling enough, after reading this, I knew I wasn’t going to get a clinical discussion or a bunch of mundane facts.

A woman didn’t have to stand on the corner to become a prostitute. All women at some point in their lives have exchanged pussy for goods and services. The best tricksters could barter for homes, cars, diamonds, furs, and enough cash to maintain a five-figure bank account. The unsophisticated females, oblivious to how much men would pay to bust a nut or have their dicks sucked, were happy with a movie, a meal, and a few lies about how much the man loved her … - Nothing Has Ever Felt Like This, by Mary B. Morrison

Whoa. This is real, raw. What has made this woman become so jaded? I’m ready to read on to find out. And then, when I realize it’s a guy thinking this, I’m doubly intrigued.

So, I’ve shared a few of my favorites. Comments? Thoughts? What's your favorite opening paragraph from a book?

Antonio Banderas Wants to Be My Friend!

2007-03-14T19:45:00.000-07:00

Imagine that Antonio Banderas asked to be your friend. Wouldn’t your heart skip a beat? Wouldn’t your breath catch in your throat? Wouldn’t you become the living embodiment of every cliché ever written in a bad romance novel?

Well, that’s what I became this morning when I got the news. Oh. My. God. The Antonio Banderas wants to be my friend!

And then, reality swirled through my body.

I frowned.

What were the odds of the Antonio Banderas being logged onto MySpace, checking out my profile, and inviting me to be his friend? Even I, not always the quickest one to jump to obvious conclusions, knew the answer to this one:

Slim. Incredibly, impossibly, slim.

So …while it’s not quite the same, I am honored that an Antonio Banderas fan wants to be my friend. Hey, six degrees of separation and all that. It’s only a matter of time before Antonio, himself -- right after Oprah -- comes knocking.

After that bit of good news, I left the house and my neighbor stopped me, handing me a box. Once again, that heart-skipping-a-beat-breath-catching-thing happened.

Only, this time, it was real.

For as I ripped open the box, copies of my very own book, with my very own name on it stared back at me. I was looking at real, live editor copies of my book, Sex Lounge, which won’t be out until May 2007!

Which means, it’s real. Now that I feel it in my hot little hands, I really do have a book coming out. Woo-hoo!

And the good news just keeps coming. I got my first published Sex Lounge review from Joyfully Reviewed:

"The sexual tension in Sex Lounge was enough to make me sweat. More than once my heart rate sped up in time with Nichole’s as Derek’s sensual and sinful seduction began. I enjoyed watching these two characters fall for each other.

Sex Lounge was truly a delight to read. I became as obsessed with reading Sex Lounge as Nichole was obsessed with Derek. Unable to put the book down, I read it completely and totally in one sitting. One long, steamy sitting. Rachelle Chase has my attention with this release and I would love reading more from her." ~Talia, Joyfully Reviewed

So was your day as good as mine? Did Antonio Banderas invite you to be his friend?

An Excellent Excuse to 'Procrastinate"

2007-03-03T10:42:00.000-08:00

This week, when I entered Starbucks, procrastination was far from my mind. Instead, I was praying that their holiday drink – a double tall Gingerbread Latte with whip – could be found four months post-holiday.

The coffee gods were smiling upon me. So as I waited impatiently to gulp calories that were destined for my hips, my eyes traveled the store restlessly.

Until my gaze landed on the book display nearby.

The featured book sported a photograph cover with green grass that was almost neon in its intensity and a dirt road the color of nutmeg. This background was soothing – but the stark image of the 10- year old(?) boy was not, for as he walked along this picturesque road in tattered flip-flops that matched the green grass, a bayonet rested against his hip while he carried a grenade on his shoulders.

So I picked up A Long Way Gone: Memoirs of a Boy Soldier, by Ishmael Beah and began reading the inside cover flap…

...THIS IS HOW WARS ARE BEING FOUGHT NOW: by children, traumatized, hopped-up on drugs, and wielding AK-47s. Children have become the soldiers of choice—

"Rachelle," announced the barrista, interrupting me.

I ignored him, my attention focused on the book.

In more than fifty violent conflicts worldwide, it is estimated that there are some 300,000 child soldiers—

"Rachelle."

I suppressed a sigh.

"Your double tall Gingerbread Latte with whip is ready."

Yeah, yeah. All right, already.

I took my drink and grabbed a seat, deciding that my office teammates could survive a bit longer without me. I returned my gaze to the book.

Ishmael Beah used to be one of them. What does war look like through the eyes of a child?

I do not know. I barely comprehend what it looks like through the eyes of an adult.

How does one become a killer?

I do not know. The thought of children forced to kill is unthinkable.

How does one stop?

I do not know. I’m still trying to grasp how one starts.

And so, for the next 24-hours – on my BART train ride to work, my walk to and from BART, my Starbucks coffee runs, and before I went to sleep at night – my mind was obsessed with Mr. Beah’s life. The neon book cover beckoned to me, refusing to release me until I finished it.

Which surprised me, as I oftentimes read to escape to a world of fantasy.

Beah’s book is a journey into harsh reality. Yet, despite this, his straight-forward style, his matter-of-fact tone, interspersed with lyrical phrases, kept me turning pages. As horror after horror was heaped on him, I wondered how he would go on, how he would survive it. When good finally happened, I wondered how he was going to be able to accept it. Sometimes I smiled, occasionally I chuckled, many times I cried, but always I was awestruck. His survival is miraculous – and the man he has grown up to be, astounding.

The book - his words - are still with me. I highly recommend this book!

Have any of you read it?

Robin Schone Launched "Chatting with Chase"

2007-02-11T20:49:00.000-08:00

Robin Schone, who was featured tonight on my new talk show, "Chatting with Chase," spent a bit of time talking about why her work, upon initial publication, was controversial, as well her new book, Scandalous Lovers, and more. She gave a great interview and, for those of you who have not yet read her new book, I highly recommend it.

Check out the interview here:

So ... what did you think of the interview? You can also share your thoughts in my survey - and get a FREE bookmark and magnet from Robin, as well as be entered into a drawing for exotic chocolate.

Five Ways to Make Her Valentine's Day Hot

2007-02-06T04:20:00.000-08:00

If your guy is struggling with what to do for Valentine’s Day, here are five ways he can make your day hot … and fun! Simply print this out, circle the one you want, and give it to him. How easy is that? :-)

1. Tease Her

Send her on a treasure hunt. Give her cards in sealed, numbered envelopes, each containing instructions for the next place to go to find her treasures. Hide gifts in the house. Or have pre-purchased gifts waiting at various stores in a mall. At the end of the hunt, the last envelope should lead her to you, where you’ll be waiting with the best treasure of all.

2. Entice Her

Give her a homework assignment to go to a bookstore, buy a romance book, highlight a scene that appeals to her, and give it to you the weekend before Valentine’s Day. You’ll pick up all the props, set the stage, and put the ball in motion for the two of you to act out her fantasy.

3. Seduce Her

Pretend it’s your first date. Buy her an outfit and lay it on the bed. Write a card telling her to wear it and where to meet you for your very first date. Let the innuendos fly as you get to know each other over dinner at your favorite restaurant – or where you first met, then experience that first thrill of desire with an after-dinner slow dance.

4. Pamper Her

Have a candlelight dinner awaiting her when she gets home. Be there to greet her, dressed to impress, as you remove her coat. Pleasant conversation and teasing glances prevail. Afterwards, run her bath, giving her time to soak while you change clothes – a thong or nothing at all. Then, bathe her, wrap her in a towel, and lead her to bed. Candles, flowers, and soothing music fill the bedroom. Caress her body with edible body dust or the oil from a soy-based massage candle.

5. Entertain Her

Show her a side of you she rarely sees. If your every day look consists of jeans and a t-shirt, don a suit and tie. If you always tell her you love her, it’s time to put it in writing - write a letter telling her all the things you love about her. If you’re a planner, do something spontaneous. If you’re rarely affectionate in public, shower her with affection.

Well, those are my five. Anyone got any other ideas or romantic plans for Valentine's Day?

"Chatting With Chase" - My LIVE Talk Show

2007-01-24T06:55:00.000-08:00

I'm excited to bring you yet another one of my brain children - this one, like all the others, was conceived while I was supposed to be writing ...

Ever wanted to pick up the phone and talk to your favorite author? Well, now you can! Each month, I'll be interviewing bestselling romance and erotica authors - and YOU can call in and ask them questions.

Upcoming authors include: Robin Schone (2/11), Leigh Michaels (3/11), Mary B. Morrison (4/15), and Suzanne Forster (5/13), with many more to come.

Please check my web site for author bios and call-in details. I really hope you'll join us!

So, what do you think of this idea?

ANNOUNCING: The Lynn G. Goodale Persistence Award

2007-01-16T05:02:00.000-08:00

Since I launched my web site in 2005, I've held various contests. Some have been 'treasure hunts,' where visitors read my excerpts for a chance to win a free ARC. One was a chance to win a free 6-month subscription to the Aphrodisia Book Club. My biggest was the "Chase the Dream" writing contest, co-hosted with Leigh Michaels.

To my knowledge, Lynn Goodale has entered each contest. But, entering was not enough, for Lynn takes her contest entries every bit as seriously as her manuscript submissions. First, she wants to know what her odds are of winning. Then, if the odds are looking unlikely, she wants to know if she will win. Her inquiries are filled with such humor, they always make me smile.

When I'm not offering contents, Lynn still sends me the occasional email. These emails are oftentimes jokes. While I usually dislike being the recipient joke strings – namely because I'm already easily distracted by email when I should be doing other things (like writing) – I always find Lynn's amusing. Oftentimes they are laugh-out-loud funny. And many times they come on days where I need a good laugh, where the muse has disappeared, or I have doubts about my writing, or I am feeling overwhelmed.

And as I learned from the "Chase the Dream" contest, not only is Lynn persistent, she’s a talented writer – two traits that are crucial to getting published. It’s only a matter of time before I receive the I-Got-The-Call! email from Lynn.

So, I'd like to present Lynn with the Lynn G. Goodale Persistence Award as a way of saying 'thank you' for her ongoing support. In addition to an award certification, here are the prizes she's assured of winning:

SECRETS VOLUME 13
ARC of Sex Lounge
ARC of Sin Club
$25 Gift Card to Borders

Thank you, Lynn.

The Quote Made You Buy It ... ?

2007-01-10T18:08:00.000-08:00

During recent conversations with fellow writers and friends, Amie Stuart and Calista Fox, the topic of quotes surfaced. Most likely because I've been sending out advance reading copies (ARCs) of my December 2007 release, Sin Club, to folks whose work I admire in hopes that they love my work and will give me a quote saying … well, that they love my work.

Lately, I've been thinking a lot about quotes. But I'll be the first to admit that, prior to becoming a published author, I never thought about quotes. Not even when I had a book in my hand that I was thinking of buying. My eyes would skip past the quotes, barely registering their existence.

The only time I read quotes was when I was annoyed. Like, when I picked up a book and turned it over to read the back cover copy and – instead of text – the whole back cover was an author photo. Don’t get me wrong, I love a good photo as much as the next gal, but when I look at the back of the book that I’m thinking of buying, I want to see words, not look at pictures.

So, after heaving a huge sigh, I'd open the book, looking for that little excerpt to entice me to buy it, only to find page after page of quotes. These I'd skim, looking for the ones that actually gave me a hint about what the book was about, barely noticing who gave the quote.

Alright. Off my soapbox. That was then ...

Now, after I turn in my completed manuscript to my editor, I become obsessed with quotes for a month or so – sometimes I even experience quote-envy as I read the quotes given to other authors.

But despite my obsessive-compulsive quote seeking behavior and my occasional quote-envy, I still don't buy a book based on its quotes. Am I alone here? Do quotes influence your decision to buy a book? If so, I'll let you know when Dean Koontz says, "If you only read one book this year, read a Rachelle Chase romance!"

A "New" Subculture: Christmas Light Artists

2006-12-25T13:05:00.000-08:00

Last night, a friend introduced me to a new subculture: Christmas Light Artists. For years, my friend's been identifying these artists from newspaper articles listing the "best" Christmas lights, and every holiday season he checks them out. This year, I was invited to tag along.

So at 5:00 p.m., I gathered the requisite tools - my pocket-sized digital camera and a super burrito from my favorite taqueria - and slipped into his car. His tools were much more extensive: a tripod, fancy camera, extra batteries, flashlights, warm clothing, and a GPS system loaded with what looked like hundreds of addresses. Off we went, over the famous Golden Gate Bridge and into Marin County, before stopping at our first destination in a Novato residential area:

Thanks to the brochures set out for visitors, I learned that viewing hours were 6-9 p.m., Dec. 22-25, and that the owner used 70,000 lights, it took him a month (fulltime?) to put them up, and his electric bill shot up an extra $1,000. As we were leaving, the owner was up on the roof getting ready to turn on his snow-making machines to entertain the crowd of children at the gate. A horse-drawn carriage stopped across the street to give the Christmas decoration aficionados seated within a peek at the 'snow.'

While the rest of the houses we visited did not top the first, each was unique in its own way. Notable sights include ...

Santa driving through the neighborhood on his gleaming red motorcycle, handing out candy canes to the kids. Though I was impressed, not all the children were as I heard one little girl ask Santa, "Where are my gifts?"

Notice the neon, “Open” sign below? These homeowners had a throng of people waiting in line to go inside the house to view each uniquely decorated room. I’m wondering how many visitors, upon exiting, added a contribution to the “Donations Accepted” box posted near the fence.

Since they decorated countless yards we visited, I’m guessing that giant snow globes are 'in' this year. Hard to believe that all we had were manger scenes and Christmas lights when I was growing up.

This San Rafael residence paid tribute to Disney and Mickey Mouse. Each garage had been converted to a Disney room, while the upstairs windows had similar displays.

Not one for clashing colors or a mishmash of reindeers, Santas, and Wise Men, owners of this Castro Street residence in San Francisco added a touch of elegance to their decorations:

When the last Christmas light was seen at 10:40 p.m., both my batteries and my camera’s were nearly dead and the cold weather had me shivering. But it was worth it and I thank my friend for the fun night and a glimpse into a side of Christmas I didn’t know existed.

Is it just me or are there others out there, clueless about the existence of those who view Christmas decorations as an art form?

My 'Writing Process' Video

2006-12-11T00:23:00.000-08:00

Okay. So, once again, I'm staring at my Word document that has total of a half of a manuscript page, wondering what to write. I glance at the top of my laptop screen, stare into the 'motion eye' and read the label, Enjoy live video chats with built-in camera. Though I've had my Sony VAIO laptop for 8 months (if you missed the report of this new love, check out My New Sex Toy), I have yet to remove the label or try this feature.

"Hmmm," I think. "What better time to experiment than when I'm supposed to be writing?"

So off I go. I launch Microsoft Movie Maker, catch some live shots with my 'motion eye,' click and drag and drop and ... voila ... my very first video. If you study it hard and take good notes, you, too, can learn the secret to producing one page/week.

What do you think? Do you know the secret?

CONTEST WINNER: "What Would You Do With This?"

2006-11-28T19:42:00.000-08:00

Way back in July, I hosted a contest entitled, "What Would You Do With This?" which featured sexy products I'd picked up at Good Vibrations and lucky winners got to try them out and report back.

Well, here's the first report, contributed by the lovely Bella Tyler. She tried out the body dust and obtained ... er ... interesting results. LOL

-----------------

Raspberry Vanilla Body Dust Product Review by Bella Tyler

Lickable Body Dust seems like a good idea. I mean, I'm all for anything involving licking and body parts, and when you add a little bit of raspberry vanilla shake flavoring to the mix can you really go wrong?

Well, you can when you're me.

Picture if you will…a candlelit bedroom, a man—who shall remain nameless because he'd die of embarrassment otherwise—lying on the bed, body dust and feather in hand. Everything starts out well. The feather used to apply the body dust gets all the right reactions and then…it happens. I lean forward to lick unfortunately I choose this moment to inhale. Lickable, flavored body dust…good for the mouth, not so much for the nose.

Human errors aside, the body dust definitely lived up to it's label and more. For a fun-filled evening I would pick up a can…and maybe a pair of fuzzy handcuffs. But remember ladies…lickable, not sniffable.

RACHELLE: Did the product live up to the description here and/or on the product packaging?
BELLA: Yes, snorting aside, it was a very delightful product.

RACHELLE: What did you like about the product (if anything)?
BELLA: It was fun to use. The feather applicator was a very nice touch.

RACHELLE: What did you dislike about the product (if anything)?
BELLA: Nothing really. I'd purchase it myself.

RACHELLE: How did it taste?
BELLA: Very light, but yummy flavor. It wasn't overpowering which was nice because the taste wasn't too rich.

RACHELLE: How did it feel on the skin?
BELLA: Very light and smooth.

Thank you, Bella, for sharing your experience!

A Thanksgiving Recipe

2006-11-21T05:18:00.000-08:00

I'm taking off for the holiday but wanted to stick to my pledge to blog weekly by leaving you with one of my favorite recipes. My family requests that I make this every time I offer to cook. Though I won't be cooking this year, I'm sharing this with you - so that your family members can begin harassing you.

Macaroni & Cheese

1 pkg. pasta
1 pkg. cheddar cheese, shredded
8 oz. sour cream
1 small onion, chopped
1 can cheddar cheese soup
1 clove garlic, minced
1 Tbsp. butter

Cook pasta as directed. Saute onion and garlic in butter. In large bowl, combine all ingredients. Save 1/2 cup grated cheese. Mix thoroughly. Pour into glass baking dish. Top with grated cheese. Bake 20 minutes at 350 degrees.

Um ... I forgot to mention that this recipe is NOT for dieters.

Happy Thanksgiving, everyone!

"Finding Derek" & "Finding Rachelle"

2006-11-13T07:11:00.000-08:00

FINDING DEREK

I've gotten a few emails asking whether or not Derek had been "found" and folks somehow missed him, as wells as pleas for more Dereks. So here's the scoop on Derek:

The Bad News: The "Finding Derek" contest is on hold.

The Good News: The "Finding Derek" contest is being revamped and will be rolled out officially in 2007 in a bigger, better, much more exciting way.

So, while I'm sorry to be such a tease, I think the new contest will be well worth the wait.

FINDING RACHELLE

I've got a few first-evers to announce to those of you in the San Francisco Bay area - my first solo reading and my first workshop this week (insert nail-biting visual here). Please join me so I won't be the only one there! LOL

Book Reading @ Tango Diva Literary Salon - 11/14/06

Tango Diva is hosting a Literary Salon and Charity Shopping Bazaar on November 14th from 6:00 - 10:00 p.m. at swanky Roe Restaurant. Not only will you be able to shop for the perfect holiday gift but, according to Tango Diva, "... you'll suddenly feel like Playboy's Miss July as our favorite erotic writer, Rachelle Chase, stimulates us with hot selections from her latest novel." Please stop by so I won't be reading out loud to myself! :-) Sign up here and pay your $10 to help raise money for Families United. And check out me out on the Tango Diva home page (as well as the interview)!

Guest Speaker @ SV-RWA - 11/18/06

I've been invited to speak at the Silicon Valley chapter of Romance Writers of America (SV-RWA) on Saturday, November 18th. The meeting, which includes breakfast, starts at 8:30 a.m. I'll be speaking on How to Get Published by Accident from 11:00-12:30. For an overview of my presentation, to register, and/or get directions, check out the SV-RWA web site.

Afterward, I'll post an update or two here. So please check back for the details!

Cover For SEX LOUNGE

2006-11-07T05:50:00.000-08:00

While chatting on the phone with my dad, he mentioned that I had received a FedEx box from Kensington at his house. I was expecting my copy edits for The Sex Lounge, so I asked him to open it and see if there was a date stating when they were due.

He shuffled through the box. “I don’t see a letter ... there are a bunch of these colored sheets that say Sex Lounge and have your name on it, but no letter.”

OMG, could that be my cover? I actually have a cover?! “Dad, do those ‘colored sheets’ actually look like a book cover?”

“Yeah. But I don't see a letter."

Inwardly, I’m screaming with excitement. Outwardly, I say, “Dad, could you forget the letter for a minute and describe what’s on the cover?”

“It’s blue. There’s a woman’s arm. And a guy’s body, but ... I can't see him and I can’t see their heads ... Nope, no letter."

My need to have him describe every pixel of the cover left him clueless. Further attempts to get clarification met with similar answers. The image forming in my mind – of body parts floating in a blue fog – was scaring me, so I stopped and let him search for the non-existent letter.

The next weekend, he drove 40+ miles (isn't he awesome?!) and hand-delivered them to me** at -- yes, a coffee shop, where I was writing. I spread a few on the table so I could look up every five minutes and gaze at them lovingly, like one of my lovesick heroines. But no one thought I was weird -- I do live in San Francisco, after all.

I'm so excited! I have a cover -- which means, OMG, maybe I really do have a book coming out next year! LOL Please stop by and take a sneak peek at an excerpt and my fabulous quotes.

**My dad had taped the box shut and created a label addressed to me that said, "delivered by Cheap Courier Service." I cracked up. I do love that man!

The Bad Blogger

2006-11-01T07:17:00.000-08:00

Someone (i.e., Amie Stuart) posted a note saying "... it's almost time for your monthly blogging." I snickered at this gross exaggeration until I realized, oh my God, she's right. Was the last time I posted something here nearly a month ago?

Yes. The blog does not lie. I am a bad blogger.

But, I am going to try to redeem myself. From this point forward, I vow to blog weekly (at a minimum), shooting for every Monday.

Happy now, Amie?

Hey, You Look Like ...!

2006-10-07T22:09:00.000-07:00

Yet again, I was at Starbucks - this time in the financial district of San Francisco - brainstorming the plot of my next book. I'd just reached the part where the hero was showing the heroine various parts of his anatomy, asking her to touch each part, slowing inching toward--

"Excuse me," said a feminine voice, interrupting me.

I glanced up, suppressing a frown, to face the neatly dressed, dark-haired woman standing in front of me. "Yes?" I replied with a polite smile.

"You look just like the Canadian Governor General from Haiti."

What? My smile slipped. I felt my mouth drop open.

She smiled hesitantly. "You wouldn't happen to be Michaelle Jean, would you?"

"Uh … no. Sorry."

Looking embarrassed, she went on to explain that she worked at a Canadian firm and a photo of Michaelle – which she passed every day – was on the wall.

I'd totally forgotten about the incident, until today. While I was looking at my notes, I saw where I'd scribbled Ms. Jean's name, which gave me the perfect excuse to procrastinate. Off to the Internet I went, searching for photos of the Canadian Governor General, which prompted me to scour the photos of myself on my laptop for any likeness, which prompted me to remember other Hey, you look just like … incidences.

Three hours later, here are the fruits of my various searches:

Michaelle Jean (left), Rachelle Chase (right). If you look real hard for 30 minutes, letting your eyes dart from photo to photo, you might catch a slight resemblance. I look like Ms. Jean on a bad day.

A couple years ago, a guy in L.A. who was producing his first film saw my headshot on a casting directory and called me.

"Are you interested in playing Condoleezza Rice?" he asked me.

Condoleezza Rice (left), Rachelle Chase (right) This is my headshot that prompted his call.

And here are the celebrities that I've been told that I look like over the years ...

Tempestt Bledsoe (left), Rachelle Chase (right)

Debbie Allen (left), Rachelle Chase (right)

And here, maybe Debbie Allen (left), Tempestt Bledsoe (middle), and Rachelle Chase (lower right) all look alike. LOL

Okay, I'm done procrastinating ... :-)

Without You ...

2006-09-28T22:08:00.000-07:00

Whew! Sorry for the long blog absence. Life kind of got in the way of things. But, I’m back. And what better way than to acknowledge a very special person’s birthday today.

Here goes, in no particular order.

Without you …

... I'd still be curling my lips in disgust at things I don’t approve of. Whenever I catch myself being judgmental, your words come back to remind me.

... M's blood pressure wouldn't be the lowest it's been in years.

... I wouldn't know the secret to drinking, thus I'd never know what it feels like to be the sexiest, Soul Train dancer who ever lived, desired by every man in the club.

... I wouldn't have experienced the best birthday of my adult life.

... A. wouldn't be the happiest he's ever been, on the verge embracing a new life that you made happen.

... when a "great" idea hits, tears would fill my eyes as I stare at the silent phone, for there'd be no one squealing with excitement on the other end as if I hadn't shared a million “great” ideas before.

... R.L. wouldn't have anyone who thinks like he does or to discuss politics with.

... when the next Mr. Right-Gone-Wrong crushes my heart, there'd be no one calling him names while I sob, and then telling me what a wonderful person I am, that I am too good for him.

... no one would've made me stop my then-new Lexus to pick up the mangy dog, search for his owner, and feel the rush of relief because he'd been saved.

... there'd be no ongoing rescue of the ever-increasing number of "unique" animals with "special" needs and placement of them in the perfect homes.

... T. wouldn't be the smartest, most beautiful, most loved, most well-adjusted, being in the whole world, primed to accomplish spectacular things.

... there'd be no box filled with childish drawings of houses and princesses with "I love you" scrawled in block letters that I go through when I'm feeling down, that make me feel special.

... I would be a mother, for there would be no one to teach me that I am not mother material.

... cherished memories of daily coffee dates in Walnut Creek, shared secrets in Savannah, and salads in Atlanta would be replaced with memories of meaningless hours and loneliness.

Without you, I'd cry every day because there'd be an emptiness in my heart that only you can fill.

I love you. Happy Birthday!

Aphrodisia Book Club Contest Winner

2006-09-01T23:49:00.000-07:00

I promised to announce the winner by 11:59 p.m. today and, well, like all my deadlines, I'm cutting it close to the wire. It's 11:45 p.m. as I type this. So ... do I at least get kudos for making it? LOL

Any-hoo, the winner of the FREE Aphrodisia Book Club Subscription is ...

(drum roll, please)

Cindy K. in Michigan.

Congratulations, Cindy. And thanks so much to all of you who took the time to read my excerpt from The Sex Lounge and enter the contest!

A 911 Call to the Panty Fashion Police

2006-08-28T17:21:00.000-07:00

Yes, the book which I have another zillion words left to write is due in 7 days. Yes, I'm supposed to be working on it (and I am!). But there are some things that can jolt the writer in me right out of the moment. Like ...

I'm sitting here -- yes, yes, at another coffee shop -- staring into space while I wait for the next burst of inspiration to strike. In walks this girl with low-riding pants that reveal a good three inches of her panties.

Excuse me. But, isn't the whole point of this panty exposure thing to entice viewers with a sneak peek at attractive panties? Last I checked, briefs (notice I did not say THONG) with 2-inch wide dingy white elastic and red hearts on a now-gray-used-to-be-white background are NOT attractive.

Am I alone here, or is this sight enough to ruin any erotic romance writer's spurt of creativity ?

August Contest Winners ... and Derek Status

2006-08-22T08:48:00.000-07:00

The winners for the "August Contest: What Would You Do With This?" have been announced. Winners, please email your snail mail address to me. Congratulations to the winners and thanks to those of you for entering.

There will be another product contest coming soon, as well as more "Dereks" for my "Finding Derek" contest. My 8/31 deadline for The Sin Club has consumed my life but ... once it's done, I'll be back with more Dereks and other mis-adventures. Stay tuned ...

When Ignorance IS NOT Bliss and Silence IS Golden

2006-08-16T10:42:00.000-07:00

There are two times in my recent history that I can remember being clueless to the point of an embarrassing ditzy-ness. The first was two years ago, when I joined a singles motorcycle club, despite the fact that I knew nothing about motorcycles or riding – and showed up for my first ride wearing high-heeled sandals and a sleeveless shirt. Can you spell h-u-m-a-n P-o-p-s-i-c-l-e ?

The second was last week while I was writing in the bar at Kincaid’s with my friend, Mary B. Morrison (BTW – Mary just made the New York Times bestsellers list! Woo-hoo!!). Yes, we were writing -- sometimes writer’s block demands more than caffeine inhalations to unstop it. Sometimes it requires a crab dip, teriyaki beef, and coconut shrimp sampler, followed by a huge bowl of peach cobbler with ice cream, and a mango mojito chaser, and a fellow writer to listen to me whine about the injustice of deadlines.

So, in between stuffing my face and whining, I’m writing away – or trying to– when a male voice behind me says, "What are you two working on?"

"We’re writers," I say. I tell him what we’re working on. His friend joins the conversation. Introductions are made – he is Aaron Brooks and his friend is Kent Smith. We all talk about books and writing.

"I’ve written a book, too," says Aaron.

"Great. What’s it called?" I ask.

"Rise Above," he says. I learn that the book is about his life and is a motivational tool aimed at youth. I also learn that Aaron and Kent are quarterbacks for the Oakland Raiders. The conversation turns to football, which I know nothing about. I share this ignorance, admitting that I don’t know what, exactly, a quarterback does, and that I used to watch games with my dad as a kid, picking the winning team based on the color of their uniforms.

Yes, sometimes it is best to remain SILENT.

By the time the conversation was over and we each went our separate ways, I can’t say I was much more knowledgeable about football – except for the fact that quarterbacks are nice people.

Photos: (left) Rachelle & Aaron Brooks, (right) Rachelle & Kent Smith

Derek #1 Found

2006-08-07T15:29:00.000-07:00

“Finding Derek” Project Overview

On July 16th, I’d promised to scour clubs, bars, airports, and financial districts to “Find Derek," the hero in my next book, The Sex Lounge, after which time blog visitors will be able to vote for their favorite. Since every reader imagines a different hero, my goal is to find a variety of potential Dereks – hopefully, a Derek for everyone, so to speak.

The Search Begins …

In the process of “Finding Derek,” I found a couple things about Rachelle. Namely, I should have done a bit of prep work prior to launching my search. Such as:

Taken an English As a Second Language class. Before I started walking up to sexy guys as part of this project, I never knew Gibberish was my first language. Now, sadly, I know.
Taken speech lessons. Mumbling and speed-talking are not effective communication techniques. See #1 above.

But it’s all good. I’m all for personal growth. Some people join Toastmasters to work on their public speaking skills. I’m approaching good-looking men to work on mine. It’s a tough job but, well, one must make sacrifices for the craft, right?

So, please give Derek #1 a hand for making it through my mumbling-speed-racer presentation – and then still agreeing to participate.

Derek #1 (discovered at a “White Linen” party)

Okay, Derek #1 (whose name really is Derek, btw) caused me to break a rule (no, not that rule!). The “rules” of the contest were that I would take candid shots of potential Dereks and post them. I was set to upload my shots when Derek emailed me a few photos of his own. I'm sorry but … some rules are meant to be broken, wouldn’t you agree?

Name: Derek "Bleek" B.
Occupation: Model
Hobbies: Basketball, sports
Why would a woman choose you to be a hero in a romance book?: "Because I'm educated, a businessman, and grounded/modest"
(Optional) If you found Nichole's notebook, how would you convince her to act out her fantasies? : "I would first want to arrange a meeting with Nichole in a very erotic, but natural spot. After meeting her wearing my best of best threads, well shined shoes, and smelling better than she could imagine, I would look her in her pure eyes, smile, hoping that she would relax after exchanging a smile. I would then strike up an interesting conversation based on my finding in the notebook that would allow her to gain comfort in her own person so that she can begin to share & direct the conversation towards the findings. After she figures out that I have an understanding of her fantasies, she gains my permission to relax, exchange the same amount of positive energy and become extremely receptive to my thoughts and ideas.

I would create the right setting and began to whisper what I know and read in her notebook only to make her realize that her very own fantasies are actually becoming true.

Aftermath, inhale then exhale while looking each other in the eyes, exchanging the smiles of satisfaction with a blink."

Uh ... is it just me, or is it hot in here ... ? I'm thinking Derek might want to try his hand at erotica ...

Searching For Derek ... Finding ‘Dirty Minnie’

2006-08-01T12:56:00.000-07:00

The Search For Derek Begins ...

In between attending informative workshops and networking with wonderful writers at last week’s National Romance Writers of America Conference in Atlanta, I’d planned to "find Derek." (Those of you who are unfamiliar with the “Finding Derek Project,” click here).

My friend, Calista Fox, whose novella, In the Heat of the Night, also appears in Secrets Volume 13, agreed to tag along for moral support. So Thursday night, off we went to Underground Atlanta -- a touristy area by day, with a myriad of shops, that turns into a happenin’ spot by night, with lines winding out the doors of the handful of clubs and bars.

That is, it’s a happening spot on Friday and Saturday nights.

After peering into deserted barrooms and empty dance floors, I chose the bustling (by comparison) Triple Play. Sauntering past the two poker players, two dining patrons, and lone barstool occupant, we sat down to wait for Derek.

And wait.

And wait.

As we overdosed on the World Championship Dart Tournament on one of the fifty television screens, Tina, our delightful, friendly bartender came to our rescue. "Would you like something else to drink?" she asked.

"What's strong like a Long Island Ice Tea but actually tastes good? Or something sweet?" I asked.

Tina listed a few drinks, and their ingredients. At my lack of enthusiasm, she said, "I'll make a drink just for you."

And that she did. I may be the first romance author to have a drink created just for her.

The Dirty Minnie is found ...

Here’s the drink that the fabulous Tina created just for me:

Dirty Minnie - (created by Tina at Triple Play for Rachelle Chase)

1-1/2 Stoli Strasberi
Splash of Stoli Vodka
3/4 Amaretto
Splash of Grenadine
Splash of Sprite
Splash of Sweet and Sour
Garnish with lemon and cherry

It's delicious, but deadly, so drink it with caution.

Why's My Drink Called a "Dirty Minnie?"

While standing in line for the elevator at the conference, a fellow writer complimented me on my red dress with white polka dots and said, "You look like Minnie Mouse."

Another writer, who knew that I write erotic romance, jokingly said, "Yes, a Dirty Minnie."

I was flattered. I relayed the story to Tina. And the Dirty Minnie was born.

But the Search For Derek Continues ...

This week, my best laid plans were derailed. But I promise to have a Derek or two for you next week. Stay tuned ...

August Contest: "What Would You Do With This?"

2006-07-23T18:38:00.000-07:00

I stopped by Good Vibrations on Friday. GV reminds me of this recently-closed bookstore in San Francisco called A Clean Well-Lighted Place For Books. Why? Because I’ve always thought that GV should be called A Clean Well-Lighted Place for Sex Toys. Or -- if you can’t picture that -- try, a large Starbucks selling dildos and lubrication products instead of drip coffee and lattes.

Got a good visual now?

Good. Because I wasn’t allowed to take pictures of the store to show you, due to their customer "privacy policy."

"But there’s no one in the store," I said to the woman behind the register.

She smiled apologetically. "I know. But we have to respect people’s privacy."

O-kay. Am I the only one confused here?

Never mind. That’s not important. You can check out the neat store here. What is important is the information she gave me about today’s products.

But, before we go there, I need you to play a game of pretend. Pretend this heat wave is not making you feel like you live in hell. Instead, you are surrounded by snow-covered mountains, holed up in a cabin with someone that you want to be holed up with, and a fire is blazing in the hearth ...

Got a good visual? Good. Now you’re ready to play.

The Products:

Raspberry Vanilla Body Dust – Apply this powder to the skin with the accompanying feather and lick it off. Fun for both giver and receiver. (Retail price: $18.00)

Soy-Based Massage Candle – Not only is the rosemary mint scent fragrant, as the candle melts the liquid becomes massage oil. Since soy burns at a lower temperature, the oil will not be too hot to pour directly from the candle onto the skin. Neat, huh? (Retail price: $10.00)

To Win:

Simply add a comment to this post -- either answer the question in the title -or- say whatever you want.

On August 22nd, I’ll randomly choose two winners (one for each product) – i.e. I'll write the names of those who comment on scraps of paper, put them in a jar, shake, and recruit someone to draw two names. I’ll then post the names of the winners here and winners will need to email me their mailing address.

The Fine Print:

The only requirement of the winner is that (s)he agrees to be a guest blogger and write a product evaluation. The evaluation can be solely impressions of the product or it can include a story about the use – humorous (i.e., mishaps) or serious. It can be several sentences or several paragraphs - whatever it takes to get the point across. At a minimum, the evaluation should include the answers to these questions:

1. Did the product live up to the description here and/or on the product packaging?
2. What did you like about the product (if anything)?
3. What did you dislike about the product (if anything)?
4. How did it taste? (only if the product is edible!)
5. How did it feel on the skin?

The product evaluation should be submitted to me via email within 30 days of the receipt of the product.

Ready? Set? … Let the comments come in!

Win a FREE Aphrodisia Book Club Subscription

2006-07-18T07:51:00.000-07:00

Please take a moment to enter my new contest! From now until August 31st, 2006, you'll have a chance to win a FREE Aphrodisia Book Club subscription, scheduled to begin shipping in July/August. Click the image below for more details ...

Losing Nemo ... Finding Derek

2006-07-16T22:25:00.000-07:00

I was a big Nemo fan. In fact, I admit to seeing it alone -- sans child -- in a theatre full of noisy kids.

Two weeks ago, I idolized Nemo.

Last week, after finding Nemo 22.5 times with a visiting two-year old, I detest Nemo -- second only to Barney, who I never liked.

But like all traumatic experiences, something good came of this. As I squealed in surprise for the eleventh time when daddy fish, Marlin, and his ditzy friend, Dory, found the goggles belonging to the evil, dentist-kidnapper, my mind drifted ...

And then my blood raced, for my brain had stumbled upon the perfect contest: "Finding Derek."

And what, pray tell, is Finding Derek?

Derek Mitchell is the hero in my new book, The Sex Lounge, which will be released by Kensington in May 2007. Beginning next week, I will scour clubs, bars, airports, and financial district(s) for sexy hunks with Derek Mitchell potential. Then, provided that drinks are not thrown in my face and/or harassment charges are not filed, I will post snapshots of these hunks and a little bio. You, faithful readers, will then have the opportunity to vote for your favorite.

So check back on August 1st when I'll post my first hunk ... or a postcard from jail. Either way, it's sure to be an entertaining post.

The Fine Art of Procrastination

2006-07-15T22:01:00.000-07:00

The Sin Club, my second book for Kensington Aphrodisia is due August 31st. My anxiety over my naked heroine’s lethargy has pushed the needle on my stress-o-meter off the chart.

So, after I finished tweaking the first chapter for the eleventh time, do you think the answer to what happens after Bobbie strips for the Nick popped into my head?

Nope. Instead, a little voice said, “Hey, you could log on to blogger.com and start a blog.”

Never being one to ignore my muse (or an opportunity to procrastinate) – six hours and some xml code hacking later, here I am. So ... what am I going to write about?

For starters, in between writing about other “important” stuff, in upcoming weeks I thought I’d share a few memorable snippets from last month’s trip to France.

Like these – a pair of Kama Sutra dice that I picked up at one of the zillion “gift” shops in the Latin Quarter:

Hmmm. Think a quick roll of the dice will help Bobbie decide what to do next? Or maybe research over at Kama Sutra Animated will do the trick?

Nah. They both just make me laugh. Back to my twelfth re-read of chapter one ...